How to measure for the best fit for your dance costume
All measurements are in inches, in the round – meaning the measuring tape will make a full circle around the part of the body you are measuring
Use a soft/flexible measuring tape for best results. These can be purchased at a fabric store, or are often included in emergency sewing kits.
Make sure the measuring tape is parallel to the floor. Keep your thumb under the tape and pull snugly, but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable.
Your dancer should be wearing similar undergarments that she’ll be wearing under her costume at performance (if any.) Which means if she’s wearing compression tights, a padded bra/cups, or any shape wear, measure with those on. Otherwise measure over a well-fitting thin leotard.
Bust/Chest: Measure at the fullest part, usually at the nipple level, parallel to the floor
Waist: Measure at the belly button or 1” above, whichever is the narrowest point, parallel to the floor
Hips: Measure around the fullest part of the hips, parallel to the floor, with feet together
Girth: Measure starting where the neck meets the shoulder, take the tape through the legs, then back up to meet the tape at the neck. Make sure your dancer stands tall before noting your final measurement
Sleeve length/Overarm (if needed): Measure from the knobby bone at the top of the shoulder, down to where the wrist bends
Inseam (if needed): Measure from the inner thigh at the crotch down to the floor or ankle, depending on specifications of the style
Find the best fit for your costume using the chart above. If your dancer falls into more than one size range, normally the larger size of the two will work best. If you have any questions about which size is best, please contact us with the measurements and the style you are inquiring about.
Our costumes are made according to the size chart above. If you require a custom size there may be an additional charge. All our patterns are hand drafted in-house, so unfortunately we cannot advise sizes based on other companies’ clothing.