How To Measure Shoulders For Jacket

Ever bought a jacket online only to find the shoulders fit awkwardly, ruining the entire look? You're not alone. The shoulders are the foundation of a jacket's fit, and an ill-fitting shoulder can make even the most expensive garment look cheap and unflattering. Getting the shoulder measurement right is crucial for comfort, style, and overall confidence in your outerwear.

A properly fitted jacket should sit smoothly across your shoulders without pulling or bunching. It should allow for a full range of motion without feeling restrictive. Whether you're sewing your own jacket, shopping online, or getting one tailored, knowing your accurate shoulder measurement empowers you to make informed decisions and achieve a superior fit. Skipping this step can lead to costly mistakes and a closet full of jackets you never wear.

What tools do I need, and how do I find the right measurement?

Where exactly on my shoulder should I start and stop measuring?

The shoulder measurement for a jacket should be taken from the prominent bone at the end of one shoulder (where the shoulder meets the arm) across to the corresponding point on the other shoulder. This is often referred to as the "shoulder point" or the "outer shoulder seam" location.

To find your shoulder points accurately, feel along the top of your shoulder until you locate the bony protrusion. This is the acromion process, and it marks the edge of your shoulder. Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides to ensure an accurate measurement. Have someone else assist you with measuring, as it's challenging to maintain the correct posture and measure yourself precisely at the same time. Using a flexible measuring tape, hold one end at the shoulder point of one shoulder and extend the tape straight across the back to the shoulder point of the opposite shoulder. It's important to note that this measurement is a straight line across your upper back, not a curved measurement following the contour of your shoulders. Ensure the measuring tape lies flat against your back without sagging or pulling too tightly. A measurement that is too loose or too tight can significantly impact the fit of the jacket. The shoulder measurement is critical for determining the overall fit and drape of the jacket across your chest and back, so accuracy is key.

How do I measure my shoulders by myself accurately?

The most accurate way to measure your shoulder width for a jacket on your own is to find a well-fitting shirt or jacket, lay it flat, and measure the distance straight across the back from shoulder seam to shoulder seam. If you don't have a well-fitting item, stand against a wall, mark the points where your shoulders end, and then measure the distance between those marks.

While a friend can provide a more accurate measurement, these techniques can work in a pinch. For the "shirt/jacket method," ensure the garment you use fits you well across the shoulders; a poorly fitting garment will give you a flawed measurement. Lay the garment flat, smoothing out any wrinkles. Use a flexible measuring tape and measure from the outermost point of one shoulder seam (where the sleeve attaches) to the outermost point of the other shoulder seam. This gives you a reasonable approximation of your shoulder width. The wall method is more direct but requires a bit more care. Stand straight against a wall, ensuring your back is flat against it. Locate the bony protrusions where your shoulders end – these are typically the points where the shoulder slopes downward towards your arm. Use a pencil to make a small, light mark on the wall at each of these points. Step away from the wall and carefully measure the distance between the two marks. Bear in mind that shoulder measurements can vary slightly depending on the garment style and desired fit. A structured jacket might require a more precise measurement than a softer, less tailored piece. If you’re between sizes, it's often better to err on the side of slightly larger, as it's easier to have a jacket taken in than let out.

What's the best way to measure shoulder width for a jacket while wearing a shirt?

The most accurate way to measure your shoulder width for a jacket, while wearing a shirt, involves having a helper measure from the outside edge of one shoulder (where the shoulder seam of a well-fitting shirt sits) straight across to the outside edge of the other shoulder. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides and stand naturally for the measurement.

While you *can* attempt to measure yourself, the results are generally less reliable. Having someone else do it ensures the tape measure stays straight across your back. The goal is to find the distance between the two points where the shoulder seams of a well-fitting shirt naturally rest on your shoulders. This point is usually the bony prominence at the end of your clavicle, but the shirt seam is a more practical marker. To improve accuracy, wear a shirt that fits you well in the shoulders. A shirt that's too tight or too loose will distort the measurement. Also, use a flexible measuring tape, preferably a tailor's tape, and ensure it follows the curve of your back slightly, without pulling too tightly. A measurement that's too tight will result in a jacket that feels restrictive across the upper back and shoulders. Here's a brief summary of the key steps:

How does measuring shoulder width for a jacket differ for men and women?

The core principle of measuring shoulder width for a jacket remains the same for both men and women: measuring straight across the back from the outside edge of one shoulder to the outside edge of the other. However, key differences arise from typical anatomical variations. Men tend to have broader, straighter shoulders, making the measurement a more direct line. Women, on the other hand, often have narrower and more sloped shoulders, which can make accurately identifying the true shoulder point trickier.

For men, locate the natural "corners" of the shoulders. These are generally well-defined points where the shoulder meets the upper arm. Measure straight across the back from one point to the other, keeping the measuring tape level. The tape should skim the upper back without dipping or pulling. For women, this corner can be less defined due to differences in muscle mass and bone structure. The sloped nature of a woman's shoulders requires careful attention to avoid measuring too far down the arm, which would result in an inaccurate, larger measurement. A helpful tip is to lightly palpate (feel) along the collarbone and shoulder blade to identify the bone structure, giving you a better sense of where the shoulder truly ends. Another consideration is the jacket's intended style and fit. A structured, tailored jacket will demand a more precise measurement for both genders than a looser, more casual style. When in doubt, having a friend or tailor assist with the measurement is always recommended, as attempting to measure your own shoulder width accurately can be challenging, especially for women needing to account for shoulder slope.

Should I add extra room to my shoulder measurement for comfort in a jacket?

Yes, generally you should add some extra room to your shoulder measurement when choosing a jacket size, but how much depends on the jacket's style and your desired fit. A general guideline is to add between 0.5 to 1 inch to your actual shoulder measurement for a comfortable fit that allows for movement without feeling restrictive. However, you'll want to consider the jacket's intended use and design.

When selecting a jacket, particularly for more formal styles like blazers or suit jackets, consider the presence of shoulder padding. These jackets are designed to have a structured shoulder, and the padding already accounts for extra room and shape. Adding too much extra to your measurement could result in a jacket that looks too large and sloppy. For more casual jackets like denim jackets or bomber jackets, which are often worn over thicker layers, you may want to lean towards adding the full inch (or even slightly more if you plan to layer frequently). This ensures comfortable movement and prevents the jacket from feeling tight across your back and shoulders. Ultimately, the best approach is to consult the manufacturer's size chart. Different brands and styles may have variations in their sizing. Read reviews from other customers, paying attention to comments about the fit of the shoulders. When possible, try on jackets in person to assess the fit and comfort. Don't be afraid to experiment to find what works best for your body type and personal preferences. A well-fitting jacket should allow for comfortable movement without feeling too loose or restrictive across the shoulders.

How do I convert my shoulder measurement to a jacket size?

To convert your shoulder measurement to a jacket size, take your shoulder measurement (the distance between the outside edges of your shoulders), add 2-4 inches to allow for comfortable movement and clothing underneath, and then consult a size chart from the specific brand or retailer you are purchasing from. Jacket sizes vary widely by brand, so relying solely on your shoulder measurement without comparing it to the brand's size chart can lead to an ill-fitting jacket.

A shoulder measurement provides a solid starting point, but it's crucial to understand that jacket sizing isn't standardized. Different brands employ varying grading systems, meaning a size 40 in one brand might fit differently than a size 40 in another. Factors like the cut of the jacket (slim fit, classic fit, etc.), the amount of padding in the shoulders, and the fabric's drape all influence the final fit. Therefore, always consult the size chart specific to the brand you're considering, paying close attention to the shoulder and chest measurements provided. Ultimately, achieving the perfect fit often requires trying on the jacket, especially if you are between sizes or if you are unfamiliar with a particular brand’s sizing. If trying on isn't an option, carefully compare your shoulder and chest measurements to the brand's size chart and consider ordering two sizes to ensure a good fit, returning the one that doesn't work. Online retailers usually provide detailed measuring instructions or diagrams.

What if my shoulder measurement falls between jacket sizes?

If your shoulder measurement falls between jacket sizes, it's generally recommended to choose the larger size. A jacket that is too tight across the shoulders can restrict movement, feel uncomfortable, and even damage the seams over time. Alterations can often be made to tailor the larger jacket for a more refined fit in other areas if needed, such as the sleeves or the waist, but it's much more difficult to add fabric to a jacket that is already too small across the shoulders.

When your shoulder measurement puts you squarely between sizes, consider a few other factors. Think about what you'll be wearing under the jacket. If you plan to wear thick sweaters or multiple layers, definitely opt for the larger size to accommodate that extra bulk. Also, consider the style of the jacket. A tailored, slim-fit jacket will require a more precise shoulder fit, making the larger size a safer bet for comfort and movement. A more relaxed or boxy style might be more forgiving, allowing you to potentially size down if the larger size feels too voluminous overall. Ultimately, trying on both sizes (if possible) is the best way to determine which fits better. Pay close attention to how the jacket feels when you move your arms and shoulders. Does it pull or feel restrictive? Does the shoulder seam sit comfortably on your shoulder, or does it extend too far down your arm? Remember that a good tailor can often make adjustments to the jacket to achieve a more custom fit.

And that's all there is to it! Measuring your shoulders might seem daunting, but with a little practice, you'll be a pro in no time. Thanks for reading, and happy jacket shopping! We hope this helps you find the perfect fit. Come back and visit us again soon for more style tips and tricks!