Vintage Q and A: Measuring and Sizing

Here is the third installment of my Q and A series! Today I am covering sizing and measurements. Shopping for vintage online has its advantages, such as having such a vast assortment of things to choose from! However, it can be a bit terrifying to purchase vintage online-most Etsy shops (including myself) have a no returns policy on vintage clothing. How do you know whether something will fit?  Here are some helpful tips:

1. Know how to measure yourself! Use a soft tape measure and keep the tape fairly snug but not super tight(think of the tape fitting you like your clothes would). Have someone help you if you want. There are a few basic measurements you will need to know depending on what you are purchasing:

Bust- measure around the fullest part of the bust; wear a lightly padded bra when measuring.
Waist- this is your natural waistline(the narrowest part)
Hips- measure the fullest part of your hips, usually 7-9" below your waist line
Shoulder to Shoulder- the measurement across your chest from one shoulder to the other
Back Length- measure from the base of your neck to your natural waistline
Length- on a dress, the length from the base of your neck; on a skirt, or pants, the length from your waist line.
Sleeve Length- measure from the base of your shoulder to your wrist.
Wrist Opening-wrap the measuring tape around your wrist
Neck Opening- wrap the measuring tape around the base of your neck
Inseam- measure inside your leg from the crotch(where it connects to your body) to your ankle
Outseam- measure outside your leg from your waist to your ankle.

thriftyvintagekitten.com

retailevolution.net

Write down your measurements and keep them handy for online shopping.

2. Vintage sizing is not the same as modern! Use the actual measurements provided by the seller to determine fit.

3. Before purchasing online, read the seller's reviews! A good seller will take accurate measurements but not all sellers measure accurately. Reviews are very helpful.

4. Ease: Your bust, waist, and hip measurements don't have to be exactly the same as the ones listed on the garment you are considering purchasing. If your measurements are exactly the same, the garment will be very tight. If your measurements are an inch or two smaller the garment will be fitted but comfortable.

Once you know your body's measurements shopping online is fun! I've had nothing but pleasant experiences buying vintage online and I've never had fit issues. If in doubt, larger is better than smaller. You can always have a tailor take something in for you but usually you can't make something bigger! 

I hope this was helpful! Visit my shop and take a look at my listings if you want to "practice" shopping online with your measurements!

I'm doing a couple more of these! Stay tuned to see what's next!

xxx

Sarah