To look great, shorts must be well-fitting regardless of their style. Shorts that don’t fit you can look extremely awkward and ruin the look, which is why it is imperative to make accurate measurements before buying shorts online.
The best way to measure a pair of shorts is to lay them down carefully on a flat surface, such as a table or floor, and smoothen out any wrinkles or folds. If you’re purchasing a pair of shorts from a brand you already have, this is a reliable method. Otherwise, you can also measure your own body and apply the measurements to the sizing guide given by the website or brand.
To help you take the perfect measurements, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide below. By following these steps, you can ensure that your shorts fit perfectly and give you the confidence to rock any summer look. So let’s get started!
Steps To Measure A Pair of Shorts
Step 1: Measure the waist
Measure the waist of your shorts by buttoning up the pair, and laying it down front-side up on a flat surface, without any wrinkles or lines. Then, using a measuring tape, measure the waistband from end to end in a straight line.
Step 2: Measuring the hips
Measuring the hip area is similar to measuring the waist. The hip area on the shorts is usually 1.5-2 inches below the zipper. Take the measuring tape and pull it from one end of the hip to the other.
Step 3: Measuring the thighs
Measure the thigh area by placing the tip of the tape measure at the crotch seam and measuring it till 1-2 inches below where the hip area ends.
Step 4: Measure the Front Rise
Measuring the front rise is extremely crucial for a pair of well-fitting shorts. The best way to accurately measure the front rise is to lay the shorts on a flat surface, like a table or floor, smoothing out the wrinkles and measuring from the waist to the crotch seam.
Step 5: Measuring the length of the shorts
With the shorts on a flat surface and all wrinkles and lines removed, measure from the tip of the waistband to the end of the pant leg. However, the length will differ according to the type of shorts you’d like to purchase.
Step 6: Shorts inseam measurement
With the shorts properly buttoned up, spread the pair on a smooth and flat surface, and remove any wrinkles. Then measure the inseam area from the inner thigh area of the crotch, where the front and back seams meet, to the bottom of the shorts. You can also read this guide for further details on measuring the shorts inseam.
Step 7: Measuring the leg area
The leg area is the opening at the end of the shorts, and you can measure it by placing the tip of the tape measure at one end of the opening and pulling it to the other. The leg area will also depend on the style of shorts you would like to purchase.
Steps To Measure Yourself
- The Waist – Stand up straight and in a relaxed, comfortable posture. Do not suck in your stomach or clench. Using the tape, measure the smallest area of the waist. Your “waist” is usually the distinct area between your stomach and ribs.
- The Hips – Your hips are crucial when it comes to measuring a pair of well-fitting shorts. Measure the widest portion of your hips, and similar to measuring your waist, wrap it around your hip comfortably. It shouldn’t be too loose or too tight. Your hip is the area right above your hip bones.
- The Thigh – Choose the widest area of your thigh, and then place the tip of the tape measure on the front and wrap it around the thigh and bring to the end on the front again, similar to measuring your waist and hips. This will map to
For a step-by-step, visual guide, refer to this video by Tabors Treasures.
Tips For Making Measurements
- Ensure that all the measurements are made with the shorts placed on a smooth surface, like a table or floor, and all wrinkles smoothened out.
- Do not hold the tape measure too tightly or loose while measuring. It should wrap around your body well.
- Make sure that all the measurements are as accurate as possible.
- Consult an international sizing chart as each country or region has its own sizing rules. Brands differ in sizing as well, and companies like HM and Forever 21 are known for having garments that run a size larger. So it is important to match your measurements with their sizing guide.
- Always refer to the sizing guide mentioned by a brand/store.
To reduce the number of returns and improve customer satisfaction, consider creating a size chart with unit conversion or using a sizing AI tool like Kiwi Sizing AI Size Recommender. This can help customers choose the right size and create a positive cycle for your e-commerce business.
By making it easy for customers to get the right fit, you can decrease the cost of handling returns and boost the success of your business. Don’t let sizing be a barrier to success – try Kiwi Sizing today!
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Don’t let sizing be a barrier to success.
