A well-fitted outfit begins with accurate measurements. Whether you're a seasoned drag queen or just diving into the world of fashion, our guide aims to help you measure yourself with precision, ensuring that our patterns fit you flawlessly.
Tools You Will Need
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A soft measuring tape
- This flexible tape allows you to measure curves and contours of the body.
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A full-length mirror
- To ensure the tape remains level and in the correct position.
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A friend (optional)
- Some measurements are easier with a little help.
General Tips Before You Begin
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Pad up
- If you're sewing for drag, measure your body with your hip pads, bra, or breastplate on. This will ensure the patterns accommodate the enhancements and provide the desired fit.
- For others, wear thin clothing to avoid adding extra inches.
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Stand Straight
- Maintain a natural posture for accurate measurements.
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Measure Based on Fabric Type
- For stretch outfits: Keep your measurements snug to ensure a close fit.
- For non-stretch garments: Add an inch to the total circumference of each measurement. This ensures you can sit and move around comfortably.
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Keep Tape Snug
- The tape should be snug but not tight – you should be able to slip a finger beneath it.
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Measure Twice
- For best results, always double-check your measurements.
How to Measure
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Bust:
- Stand naturally with your heels together.
- Hold the tape at the fullest part of your bust, ensuring it remains level across your back.
- Take the measurement without compressing the chest.
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Waist:
- Measure around the narrowest part of your natural waist.
- Typically, it's just above the navel and below the ribcage.
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Hips:
- Stand with your heels together.
- Measure around the fullest part of your hips, which is usually about 7 to 9 inches below your natural waist.
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Height:
- Stand straight against a wall without shoes.
- Ask a friend to mark the top of your head on the wall.
- Measure from the floor to the mark.
Additional measurements needed for alterations
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Neck:
- Measure around the base of the neck where the neck meets the shoulders.
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Bicep:
- With your arm relaxed, measure around the fullest part of the upper arm.
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Knee:
- Stand straight and measure around the midpoint of the leg, right over the kneecap.
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Ankle:
- Measure around the narrowest part of the ankle, right above the bone.
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Torso Length:
- Start from the top of the shoulder (where a seam of a regular T-shirt would start) and measure down to the natural waistline, keeping the tape measure close to the front center of the body.
Interpreting Measurements for Our Drag Sizes
Now that you have your measurements, refer back to our Drag Sizes Guide to find the best size for you. Remember, our unique drag sizes are based on a mix of U.S. Standard Men’s & Women’s Plus sizes, adapted for the drag community. If you find yourself between sizes, always opt for the larger size and make adjustments as necessary.
Need More Help?
If you're unsure about your measurements or need further guidance, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you achieve that show-stopping fit!