Chest measurement, how to take it correctly

Short answer: Measure around the widest part of your chest with the tape level all the way round. Stand relaxed and do not breathe in while you measure. That gives you a number that matches how you actually stand and move during the day.

Why the chest measurement matters

Your chest measurement decides how a top sits across the shoulders and chest. Too small, and the top pulls when you lift your arms. Too large, and the fabric hangs and folds. An accurate chest measurement is the first step to a top that sits well from morning to evening, without you thinking about it.

Find the widest point

The tape should sit at the widest point, which for most people is just under the armpits and across the chest. Move the tape up and down a little and see where the number is largest. You use that number for tops, and it also helps when you pick a bamboo boxer to match a top.

Keep the tape level at the back

Most people measure too high on the back, which makes the number too small. The tape slides up between the shoulder blades because you cannot see it. Look over your shoulder in the mirror or ask for help. The same care helps when you measure your foot for bamboo socks, where a crooked tape also gives the wrong size.

Breathe normally

Breathe in and hold it, and the number is misleading. The same happens if you tense your stomach. Both give a top that does not fit as expected. Breathe out calmly and read the number in the middle of a normal breath out. Measure relaxed, then choose from the bamboo hoodie for men.

Arms down by your sides

Lift your arms while you place the tape, but lower them again before you read the number. Raised arms tense the muscles across chest and back and give a different measurement from the one you have day to day. Keep your shoulders still and do not push your chest out. The number then matches your usual posture.

Snug, but not too tight

The tape should rest against the skin without pressing in. If you can just slide one finger underneath, it is right. Pull hard and you get a number that is too small and a top that feels tight. A loose tape slides down and gives a number that is too large. Hold it lightly and read it in the mirror.

Measure twice and write it down

Measure twice and use the average. If the two numbers are more than a centimetre apart, measure again. Write down your chest measurement with a date so it is ready next time you shop. It is also useful when buying a gift or when you want to see whether your size has changed.

How to use the number

Find your chest measurement in the size guide for the style you are viewing. If you sit in the middle of a range, the choice is easy. If you fall between two sizes, it depends on the fabric and the fit you prefer. For something loose on the sofa, go up a size. For a closer fit, choose the smaller one.

Frequently asked questions

Where on the chest should you measure

At the widest point, usually just under the armpits and across the chest, with the tape level all the way around your body.

Should you measure tightly

The tape should rest on the skin without pressing in. If one finger fits underneath, it is snug enough for a useful measurement.

What if you fall between two sizes

Choose the smaller size for knits with elastane and the larger one for firm fabrics, because elastane gives while firm fabrics do not.