How to Give Measurements to Your Tailor — A Complete Guide for Gurgaon Women

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

A perfectly tailored outfit starts with accurate measurements. Even the most skilled tailor cannot deliver a great fit if the measurements are wrong. Yet most women either don't know which measurements to take, or take them incorrectly — too tight, too loose, or over the wrong part of the body.

After 20 years of tailoring for women across Gurugram, Mrs. Archana Singh has seen every measurement mistake there is. This guide covers everything you need to know before your next tailoring appointment.

What You Need to Take Measurements

• A soft measuring tape (not a metal ruler)
• A well-fitted bra or camisole (wear what you'll wear under the outfit)
• A mirror or a helper
• A notebook or your phone to record the numbers

Always take measurements over the clothes you plan to wear under the outfit — not over a thick sweater or a padded jacket.

Measurements for a Blouse

A blouse requires the most precise measurements of any garment. Here are the key ones:

1. Bust

Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the floor. Do not pull the tape tight — it should sit snugly but not compress. This is your most important measurement.

2. Under-bust

Measure just below your bust, where the blouse hem will sit. This determines the blouse length and the tightness of the lower band.

3. Waist

Measure around your natural waist — the narrowest part of your torso, usually 2–3 inches above your navel.

4. Back width

Measure across your back from one shoulder blade to the other. This is often overlooked but is critical for a blouse that doesn't pull across the back.

5. Shoulder width

Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other, across the top of your back.

6. Arm circumference

Measure around the fullest part of your upper arm. This determines the sleeve width — too tight here and the blouse will be unwearable.

7. Arm length

Measure from the shoulder point to where you want the sleeve to end (wrist, elbow, or three-quarter).

8. Blouse length (front and back)

Front length: from the shoulder (at the base of the neck) to where you want the blouse to end. Back length: from the nape of the neck to the hem. These are often different — especially if you have a rounded upper back.

Measurements for a Salwar Kameez / Suit

Kameez (top)

• Bust: Same as blouse measurement
• Waist: Same as blouse measurement
• Hip: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, usually 7–9 inches below your waist
• Shoulder width: Same as blouse measurement
• Kameez length: From the shoulder to where you want the kameez to end (knee, mid-calf, or ankle)
• Sleeve length: From shoulder to wrist (or desired length)

Salwar (bottom)

• Waist: Same as above
• Hip: Same as above
• Inseam length: From the crotch to the ankle
• Salwar length: From the waist to the ankle

Measurements for a Lehenga

Lehenga skirt

• Waist: Measure where the lehenga waistband will sit (usually at or just below the natural waist)
• Hip: Fullest part of the hips
• Length: From the waist to the floor (or desired length)

Lehenga blouse

Same as the blouse measurements above. For a bridal lehenga, we take additional measurements for the back design and closure.

Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid

1. Measuring too tight: The tape should be snug, not compressing. You should be able to slip two fingers under the tape.
2. Measuring over thick clothing: Always measure over the undergarments you'll wear with the outfit.
3. Forgetting the back width: This is the most commonly missed measurement and the most common cause of a blouse that pulls across the back.
4. Not specifying the length: Always tell your tailor exactly where you want the garment to end — knee, mid-calf, ankle. Don't assume they'll guess correctly.
5. Taking measurements yourself without a mirror: It's very difficult to take accurate bust and back measurements alone. Ask a family member or friend to help.

Should You Take Measurements at Home or at the Boutique?

For the best results, always visit the boutique for measurements. At Dune Aura Boutique, Mrs. Archana Singh takes all measurements herself and notes posture, body shape, and any specific fitting preferences. This level of detail is impossible to capture with a tape measure at home.

That said, if you are ordering remotely or want to come prepared, the measurements above will give your tailor a solid starting point.

Book Your Measurement Appointment in Gurgaon

Visit Dune Aura Boutique at House 191, Upper Ground Floor, Sector 9A, Gurugram 122001. Open Monday to Sunday, 10 AM – 7 PM. WhatsApp us at +91 85878 76733 to book your appointment.