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Writer's pictureShriya Singh

A Step-by-Step Guide to Basic Bodice Measurements

Taking accurate bodice measurements is essential for creating well-fitting garments. Whether you're sewing a dress, top, or blouse, knowing how to measure correctly will help ensure your patterns fit perfectly.


Measurement for basic bodice

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before you begin, gather the following tools: 

- Soft measuring tape

- Notepad and pencil

- A friend (optional but helpful)




 Step 2: Prepare for Measuring

- Wear a well-fitting,close-fitting top to get the most accurate measurement.

- Stand straight with your arms relaxed at your sides.

- Take measurements in front of a mirror to ensure the tape is level and not twisted.


bodice length

Step 3: Key Bodice Measurements


 Bodice Length Front - Measure from the top of your shoulder down to your natural waistline.

 - Ensure the measuring tape follows the natural curve of your body.

 - Standard Range: 15" to 18"

 - Significance: This measurement is crucial for the overall length of the bodice, ensuring it fits correctly without being too short or long.


Bodice Back



 Shoulder To Back Front

- From the highest point of the shoulder to the natural waistline in the back.- Standard Range: 15" to 17"

- Significance: Accurate measurement of the shoulder to waist back ensures that the garment fits well in the back, preventing any pulling or gaping and providing a clean line.





Shoulder Width

  - Measure from the outer edge of one shoulder to the outer edge of the other.

  - This can be done by standing straight or slightly bending forward to expose the shoulder line.

  - Standard Range: 14" to 16"

  - Significance: This measurement helps determine the width of the bodice across the shoulders, impacting how well the garment sits on the body.


Bust Measurement

 Bust Measurement

  - Stand straight with your arms relaxed at your sides.

 - Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, ensuring it is parallel to the floor. - Make sure the tape is snug but not tight, allowing for comfortable breathing.

 - Standard Range: 32" to 38"

 - Significance: This measurement determines the width of the bust area in your garment, crucial for a good fit across the chest.



Underbust Measurement

 - Locate the area just below your bust, at the ribcage.

 - Measure around this area, ensuring the tape lies flat against your body.

 - Keep the tape snug but not constricting.

 - Standard Range: 28" to 34"

 - Significance: This measurement helps in fitting bodices, especially in styles with structured support, like corsets or bras.


Waist Measurement

 Waist Measurement

 - Find your natural waistline, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso, just above your belly button.

 - Wrap the measuring tape around your waist, keeping it level and comfortable. - Breathe normally while measuring to ensure a correct fit.

 - Standard Range: 24" to 30"

 - Significance: This measurement is key for creating a fitted waistline and influences the overall silhouette of the garment.



Neck Measurement


Neck Circumference

 - Wrap the tape around the base of your neck. - Ensure it’s snug but not tight

 - Standard Range: 13" to 16"

 - Significance: Important for the neckline design and collar fit. A well-measured neck circumference ensures that the garment is neither too tight nor too loose, enhancing comfort.






Across Front Measurement

Across Front Measurement- Stand straight and measure from one shoulder seam (or bust point) across the front to the other shoulder seam (or bust point).

- Keep the tape straight and level.

- Standard Range: 10" to 16"

- Significance: Measures the width across the front of the bodice from shoulder seam to shoulder seam (or bust point), crucial for ensuring the garment sits properly on the chest. This measurement helps in achieving balance and avoiding pulling at the bust.


Center Front Length


Center Front Length- Measure from base of neck to the natural waistline

- Keep the tape straight.

- Standard Range: 14” to 16”- Significance: Measured from base of the neck to the waist. This measurement is essential for ensuring the front of the garment is proportionate and that it aligns with the natural waist, particularly important for fitted styles and dresses.



Armhole Depth


Armhole Depth

 - Measure from the top of the shoulder down to where you want the armhole to sit.  - It's helpful to bend your arm slightly to find the most comfortable point for the armhole.

 - Standard Range: 7" to 9"

 - Significance: This measurement is critical for ensuring that the armhole is comfortable and allows for easy movement without pulling.



Side Seam Measurement

Side Seam Measurement- Measure from the underarm seam down to the waistline along the side of the body.- Standard Range: 7" to 12" (varies based on garment style).- Significance: This measurement is important for achieving the correct fit in the side seams of tops and dresses. It helps ensure that the garment sits properly on the body and allows for ease of movement.


This was A Step-by-Step Guide to Basic Bodice Measurements, hope it helps you in taking accurate bodice measuremnts.


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