How To Measure Pants

Waist Measurement

Find key terms and that will help you better understand the various processes.

How to Measure Guide

Find key terms and that will help you better understand the various processes.

Front Raise Measurement

Find key terms and that will help you better understand the various processes.

Back Raise Measurement

Find key terms and that will help you better understand the various processes.

Thigh Measurement

Find key terms and that will help you better understand the various processes.

Extra

Find key terms and that will help you better understand the various processes.

Tips for Accuracy

Measure waist at the natural waist. The natural waist is the narrowest point of your torso, about an inch above your belly button — not the hip.
Measure inseam from the crotch seam to the hem. Find the point where the two legs meet at the crotch and measure straight down to the hem.
Measure both front and back rise. Rise is measured from the crotch seam to the waistband top. Low-rise is ~8–9 inches; high-rise is ~12+ inches.
Measure thigh width at the very top of the leg. Measure across the thigh just below the crotch seam and double for circumference.
Check the leg opening to identify the cut. A hem opening of 13–14 inches (circumference) indicates a tapered leg; 16–18+ inches is straight or relaxed.

FAQ

My waist and hips are different sizes, which do I size to?

Size to whichever is larger, then have the other adjusted by a tailor. For most body types, hips are wider, so pants are sized to the hip and the waist is taken in — a quick, inexpensive alteration.

Many brands use vanity sizing, running 1–2 inches larger than the garment’s actual measurement. Always measure the waistband laid flat (doubled) rather than relying on the label.

Measure from the crotch seam down to the bottom of the pant leg while flat.

You should be able to pinch about 1 inch of fabric at the seat. Less feels tight when sitting; more than 2 inches looks baggy and sags at the back.

Go up in waist (easier to take in) and up in inseam (can always be hemmed shorter). A tailor can quickly adjust both.