Measuring Guide

The size that we show in our item titles is the 'size to fit the wearer'. For example, if your chest measures 38 inches, and you are of average height, an item listed as '38R" (R = Regular) will normally fit you. When estimating the 'size to fit' we take into account the garment cut & how it is meant to be worn. The measurements we provide are always taken with the garment laid flat, and without stretching the material.

How to measure yourself - you'll need a tailor's tape measure and someone to help you. If there's no-one around to help you, we recommend you select an item you already own that fits you well. Lay it flat without stretching the material. For a two button jacket, fasten the top button only. On a three button jacket, fasten the top and middle buttons. You can then compare the measurements you take with the measurements in the listing for a good idea of likely fit.

Chest: With your arms at your sides, measure around the fullest part of your chest, across shoulder blades and under arms. If measuring a jacket you already own, the measuring tape should extend from underarm to underarm.

Sleeve: Determine your sleeve length by measuring from the shoulder to a point that just covers the wrist. If measuring a jacket you already own, the measuring tape should extend from shoulder seam to cuff.

Shoulders: Measure across the top, back, of your shoulders. If measuring a jacket you already own, the measuring tape should extend parallel with hem from shoulder seam to shoulder seam.

Waistcoat length: Measure down front from nape of neck to parallel with tips.

Height measurement: Your height is also an important element to determine your size. 5' 2" - 5' 6" requires SHORT fitting, 5' 7" - 5' 11" requires REGULAR fitting, and if your height is 6'- 6' 5" you’ll need LONG fitting. For example: if you are 40" chest size, and your height is 5' 8" , you’ll need 40R size. If measuring a jacket you already own, measure down back from nape of neck (excluding collar) to jacket hem.

Trouser Waist: Measure the waist below the navel. The measuring tape should be snug (do not measure over your belt). Tell the truth! If measuring a pair of trousers you already own, lay the trousers flat and measure across the full width of the waistband, then double that measurement.

Inseam: Unless you know each other intimately, this measurement is done with trousers on! Place the measuring tape at the crotch of the trousers and measure down to the bottom of the ankle. If measuring a pair of trousers you already own, lay the trouser leg out flat but not stretched and measure from hem to crotch.



A few words about vintage sizing

Please note, we often ignore the size labels on vintage garments as they were usually sized much smaller in the old days. Over the years we have got used to 'vanity sizing'! Also, garments may have been altered by a previous owner. For 100% satisfaction, always check the actual measurements stated in the listing.

Measuring FAQs

Q: Why are the 'to fit' chest size and the actual chest measurements different?

A: All garments are sized slightly larger than the 'body' they are made to fit. For example, a jacket that is labelled a 38" chest will normally have an actual chest measurement of 40-41" - it would be skin-tight otherwise! Overcoats normally allow an additional 4-6" to go over a suit, so a coat that is labelled 38" chest will normally measure 42-44".