How to Measure Chest Width? (With Pictures)

When it comes to finding perfect-fitting tops, shirts, t-shirts, or dresses, chest width becomes important measurement along with torso and shoulder measurements.
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Last updated on March 10, 2023

When it comes to finding perfect-fitting tops, shirts, t-shirts, or dresses, chest width becomes important measurement along with torso and shoulder measurements. To measure chest width and get the perfect fitting clothing, follow the steps for both women and men.

How to Measure Chest Width for Women?

When it comes to women’s clothing, getting the chest measurement right can mean a perfectly fitting dress or top that flatters your curves.

To measure chest width, find a fabric tape measure that can easily wrap around your body and measure your curves accurately. Alternative, you can use a string to wrap around your body and measure it with a ruler.

Step 1: Find a friend to help you measure

While it’s possible to measure chest width without help, it’s much easier and more accurate to have someone help out. If that is not possible, you have to be extra careful when taking chest width measurements and maybe even measure twice to be sure.

Step 2: Remove your shirt but leave your bra on

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Remove your shirt but leave your bra on for chest width measurement

For the most accurate measurement, you must measure as close to your body as possible. In this case, remove your top and measure with your bra on. You want to keep the bra on since you will be wearing it under your clothes and we need to include it in your measurements.

Step 3: Wrap the tape measure around the chest

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Wrap the tape measure around the chest

Position the tape measure so that it’s horizontal to the ground and falls just under your armpits. Bring it around your back so that the ends meet in front, across the widest part of your breasts. Make sure the tape measure is not twisted, and don’t stick your chest out or exhale. Just stand normally.

If you’re measuring yourself, look in the mirror to confirm your measurement. This will prevent skewing the measurement while you bend your neck to look at the tape.

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Don’t let your customers second guess their sizing decisions. Provide the perfect size information right from their first purchase.

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How to Measure Chest Width for Men?

Let’s move on to measuring chest width for men. The steps are quite similar to the above so let’s go through them again.

Find a fabric/flexible tape for men’s chest width measurement. If you don’t have one, you can use a piece of string to wrap around your chest and measure the string with a ruler to get your size.

Step 1: Ask someone to help you measure

While it’s best to have someone else hold the tape measure for you, you can still get an accurate measurement if you want to do it yourself. If you do take the measurement yourself, do it in front of a mirror so you can see if the tape is parallel to the ground all the way around.

Step 2: Remove your shirt

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Remove your shirt to get proper chest measurement

Clothing adds extra width to the measurement, so it’s better not to be wearing anything on your torso.

Step 3: Wrap the tape around your chest

Slide the tape measure so that it surrounds your chest and falls just under your armpits. Rest it securely around the widest part of your chest, which is often above or at the nipple line.

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Wrap the tape around your chest

If you are performing the measuring yourself, make sure the numbers are turned out so that you can read them.

Hold the ends of the tape with both hands in the front of your body, so you’ll be able to see the measurement.

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Make sure the measuring tape isn’t twisted.

Make sure the measuring tape isn’t twisted, and ensure the tape is at the same height all the way around. It should be parallel with the ground.

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Selling Clothes Online?

Don’t let your customers second guess their sizing decisions. Provide the perfect size information right from their first purchase.

This app is very easy to work with and has lots of features. The support team is fantastic!! Highly recommend it

– Devoteewear, Canada

Chest Width Measurement Tips

  • Always measure with a fabric tape measure or a piece of string.
  • Measure in front of a mirror to ensure that the tape is parallel to the ground all the way around.
  • Make sure the tape is not twisted and is at the same height all the way around. It should always be parallel to the ground.
  • Don’t suck in your stomach or puff out your chest.
  • Wear tight-fitting clothing or no clothing at all to ensure accurate measurements.
  • Always round up the measurement when buying clothing.

FAQs for chest width measurement

Let’s now look at some of the frequently asked questions about chest measurement for both men and women.

  1. How tight should the tape measure be when measuring my chest?

    The tape measure should be snug, but not so tight that it compresses your chest. You should be able to fit a finger between your body and the tape measure.

  2. Can I measure my chest with my clothes on?

    It’s not recommended to measure your chest with your clothes on, as clothing can add extra width to the measurement. It’s better to measure your chest with tight-fitting clothing or no clothing at all.

  3. How do I know what size shirt or suit to buy once I have my chest measurement?

    Most clothing brands have size charts that correlate chest measurements with shirt or suit sizes. Check the brand’s size chart before making a purchase to ensure a proper fit.

  4. How do you measure chest width for women?

    To measure chest width for women, use a measuring tape to measure the circumference of the fullest part of the bust, typically at the nipple line. Make sure the tape measure is parallel to the ground and snug but not tight against the body.

  5. How do you measure chest width for men?

    To measure chest width for men, measure the circumference of the fullest part of the chest, generally around the nipple. Ensure that the tape is parallel to the ground and snugly wraps your chest while leaving room to breathe.

  6. What is chest size for female?

    Chest size for women is the measurement of the fullest part of your bust. The fullest part is generally in line with the nipples and around your body.

  7. Is a women’s large a men’s medium?

    No, a women’s large is not necessarily a men’s medium. Women’s and men’s sizes are typically based on different measurements and size charts, so it is important to consult the specific size charts provided by the manufacturer to determine the appropriate size.

  8. Is chest width same as body?

    No, chest width is not the same as the body. Chest width refers specifically to the measurement of the circumference of the fullest part of the chest, while body refers to the overall size and shape of an individual.

Get measuring for the right fit, every time

Measuring your chest width is a simple process that can be done at home with a fabric tape measure or a piece of string. By following the steps outlined above and using the measuring tips provided, you can ensure an accurate measurement.

Always remember to wear tight-fitting clothing or no clothing at all and round up the measurement when buying clothing. With your chest measurement in hand, you can confidently shop for clothes that fit your body perfectly.

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Selling Clothes Online?

Don’t let your customers second guess their sizing decisions. Provide the perfect size information right from their first purchase.

This app is very easy to work with and has lots of features. The support team is fantastic!! Highly recommend it

– Devoteewear, Canada

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