Jeans can be extremely unflattering if they do not fit your body well, which is why it is imperative to make accurate measurements before buying jeans online.
The best way to measure a pair of jeans 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 jeans 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.
We’ve laid down a step-by-step guide on taking measurements from jeans below. Read on to find out more.
How To Read Jean Sizes
Size tags for most jeans and pants follow the same format, which is x-y. For instance, sizes are stated as 32-34. 28-30 and so on.
The first number refers to the waist size, and it implies the measurement of your waist in inches.
The second number indicates the length of the pant, and it implies how long the pant is when measured from the inseam or crotch to the ankles.
Thus, jean sizes indicate the waist and length of the garment, respectively.
Steps To Measure A Pair of Jeans 👖
- Waist – Measure the waist of your jeans 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.
- Front Rise – Measuring the front rise is extremely crucial for a pair of well-fitting jeans. The best way to accurately measure the front rise is to lay the jeans on a flat surface, like a table or floor, smoothing out the wrinkles and measuring from the waist to the crotch seam.
- Hip – Measuring the hip area is similar to measuring the waist. The hip area on the jeans is usually 1.5-2 inches below the zipper.
- Thigh – 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.
- Length – With the jeans 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 jeans you’d like to purchase, and you may have to either add or remove a few inches according to the style.
- Knee – Place the tip of the tape measure on one side of the knee area and measure till the other end.
- Inseam – With the jeans properly buttoned up, spread the pair on a smooth and flat surface, and remove any wrinkles. Then measure the jeans inseam area from the inner thigh area of the crotch, where the front and back seams meet, to the bottom of the ankle.
- Cuff – The leg area is the opening near the ankle, 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. However, the leg area will also depend on the style of jeans you would like to purchase.
Steps To Measure Your Body
- 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.
- Hips – Your hips are crucial when it comes to measuring a pair of well-fitting jeans. 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.
- Inseam – Place the tip of the tape on your crotch and pull it down to your ankles. Make sure to wear a pair of shoes when measuring the inseam, preferably a pair that you wear most often.
- 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 it to the end on the front again, similar to measuring your waist and hips.
For a step-by-step, visual guide, refer to this video by Raw Denim.
Tips For Making Measurements
- Ensure that all the measurements are made with the jeans 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.
Jeans Styles For Each Body Shape
- For Short/Petite People – High-waisted jeans are most suitable for those who are short or petite as it gives the illusion of an elongated body.
- For Tall People Flared jeans are great for tall people as they give shape to their height, and accentuate their body, making them look proportionate.
- For Curvy/ Hourglass Shapes – For those who have a curvy or hourglass shape, cropped jeans are ideal as they give you the effect of height and an elongated body. Long jeans may make you look stout.
- For Rectangular/ Flat Shapes – If you have a rectangular or boyish body shape, straight-fit jeans are a savior. While mid-rise is great, you can also opt for high-waisted jeans for voluminous hips.
To reduce the return rate after a successful sale, we also recommend that you can create a size chart with unit conversion to make your customers pick the unit they are most comfortable thinking in to make a purchase decision.
Or use Kiwi Sizing AI Size Recommender as a size chart tool. It will recommend the most suitable size of products for customers to reduce the return rate, help you decrease the cost of the return, and to create a positive cycle of your e-commerce business.
