How to Measure Yourself for a Tuxedo

You know the saying: Measure twice, cut once. Or in this case, it’s rent once. Tuxedos are often rented instead of purchased to save money, but also to look perfect for that once-in-a-lifetime occasion. Making sure you look great on your big day begins with taking the proper measurements for your body.

You may think that taking measurements for a tuxedo is a daunting task, but don’t worry. With the right tools and knowledge of what to measure, you’re sure to get the perfect fit. Follow our step-by-step guide for how to measure yourself for a tuxedo.

Why do I need to measure myself at all?

This is a great question. A tuxedo is a bespoke piece of clothing intended to elevate your look. Since tuxedos are often rented, shops will usually have a wide range of sizes available for customers. Tuxedo shops want to get you the perfect fit so you can look great, but to do that they need to know your measurements. Whenever you rent or buy a tuxedo, you will always get measured for it and the tuxedo itself will be tailored for your body.

What You’ll Need

• Flexible measuring tape
• Someone to help you (optional)

When we say measuring tape, we don’t mean the kind that is stiff and is used for home improvement projects. Ideally, you want to use a flexible measuring tape that can go around your waist comfortably. These are generally not housed inside a metal case, but are usually wrapped around themselves like a piece of rope. On the measuring tape, there are inches (or centimeters, if you live outside the US). You can find flexible measuring tape at most craft stores and they are fairly inexpensive to buy.

For the best results, you’ll want someone to help take your measurements. This is because some areas of your body can be hard to reach on your own, such as your inseam. However, if you don’t have a person to help you, it is possible to measure yourself with a little patience.

How to take your measurements

Note: Always record your measurements in both inches and centimeters, so you have both handy.

Chest

Use a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around the fullest part of your chest, just below your armpits. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. Make sure the tape is straight and parallel to the floor (this is where a friend can come in handy). Lastly, nothing should be between your body and the tape (eg. fingers, clothing items, hair, etc). Record your measurements.

Waist

Wrap the measuring tape around the narrowest part of your waist or one inch below your belly button. Again, make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. As with the waist, make sure the tape is parallel to the ground and that there are no obstructions such as a belt or pant waist. Record your measurements.

Sleeve Length

Start by standing in front of a full-length mirror. Place your arm at a 90-degree angle and measure from your shoulder seam to the bottom of your wrist. For more accurate measurements, you can place your finger at certain points of your arm to keep the tape steady, such as your elbow. When you reach your wrist bone, stop. Then record your measurements.

Neck

Wrap the measuring tape around the middle of your neck, about an inch above where your collarbones would meet. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. Lastly, ensure the tape is parallel to the ground and that there are no fingers or objects (eg shirt collar) between your body and the tape. Record your measurements.

Inseam

Remove your shoes. Measure from the bottom of your crotch to the bottom of your ankle. Record this measurement in both inches and centimeters.

Shoulders

To measure your shoulders, start by standing in front of a full-length mirror. Place your arms at a 90-degree angle and measure from the point of one shoulder (where the sleeve starts) to the point of the other. Record your measurements.

Now that you have all the measurements for your tuxedo, you can go ahead and order your tuxedo from Menguin with confidence. Make sure to consult with a tuxedo expert or tailor if you have questions about the measurements or the fit of the tuxedo. Remember that tuxedos come in different fits, from classic to slim. With the right measurements, you can easily get the perfect fit for you.

Try It On Before the Big Day

With Menguin, you can try on any tuxedo in your own home months before the big day – at no cost to you. With our home try-on program, you can build your tuxedo online and get it delivered to your door. Once delivered, you can wear the tuxedo and accessorize it as you please. Maybe you want to test drive the fabric or try on your own shoes to see how they look. After 48 hours, just ship it back! Your stylist will be available to help you make any required customizations, from selecting the right fit to complimentary colors. Order your home try-on today.