How to Measure for Relaxed-Fit Clothing
Relaxed fit describes a silhouette, not a universal size. Two garments with the same label may have very different chest, shoulder and length measurements. A flexible tape measure and a favorite piece of clothing make a more useful comparison.
Know what the chart measures
A body chart describes the person the garment is intended to fit. A garment chart describes the clothing itself. A flat chest width runs across the garment from side to side; a chest circumference goes all the way around. Do not compare those numbers directly. Our product pages identify the measurement type available.
Measure your body without pulling the tape tight
For the bust, keep the tape level around the fullest part. Measure the waist where you naturally bend, and the hips around the fullest part of the seat. Stand normally and keep room for a natural breath. Record inches; if a chart also uses centimeters, divide centimeters by 2.54 to compare.
Compare a shirt or sweater you enjoy wearing
Lay the garment flat without stretching it. Measure the chest from underarm to underarm, then double that width if you need a circumference. Measure from the top of the shoulder down to the hem for length. For dropped shoulders, a broad shoulder measurement is part of the intended shape; a familiar garment is especially helpful here.
Check pants beyond the waist
Measure the waistband, hips and outer leg length on a pair you like. The outer length is not the inseam. For elastic waists, a chart may show a relaxed-to-extended range; compare the whole range and the hip measurement. A wide leg does not automatically mean extra room at the waist.
Check both garments in a set
A top and bottom may share a label size but fit differently. Compare both charts where supplied. If only a body-height reference is available, treat it as limited guidance rather than a full fit chart. Contact us when a missing measurement matters to your decision.
Leave room for the shape you want
The difference between your body circumference and the garment circumference is often called ease. There is no single correct amount for every fabric or design. Use your favorite garment as a baseline and decide whether you want a closer or roomier shape. Allow for the measurement variation stated on the product page.