Shopping for a ready-made suit today is like shopping for a new car. You walk into the store where you are cordially greeted by the happy haberdasher who quickly asks,” What size suit do you normally wear?”
Seldom are you asked about any fit challenges you may have experienced in the past with regard to the jacket, discomfort of the seat, rise, or overall fit of your trousers. Furthermore, you are rarely placed in front of a mirror — with tape measure in hand — having your measurements taken and recorded so that you can accurately determine the correct size suit to select.
The following steps are your guide to knowing what size suit you really wear…
Establishing Your Size
Overarm – The tailor should place the tape over both arms and parallel to the ground. This measurement should be taken 2 inches above the nipple line. Snug, but not tight.
Chest – The tailor should place the tape over the fullest part of your chest under the arms and parallel to the ground. He should make sure the tape is over the shoulder blades in the back. Snug, but not tight. If there are more then 8 inches between the chest and overarm, you should go up to the next suit or jacket size to accommodate for the large overarm.
Coat Length – This is measured in back — from the bottom of the shirt collar to the bottom of the seat. The coat should completely cover the curvature of the seat.
Here’s a common formula for figuring the coat length: A man’s height in inches, minus 9, divided by 2. For example:
- Height 6 feet 2 inches = 74 inches
- 74 inches minus 9 inches = 65 inches
- 65 inches divided by 2 inches = 32.5 inches
- 32.5 inches would be the coat length
Waist – Make sure you have your pants on your waist in the position you normally wear them. The tailor should place the tape slightly under the top of your waistband and measure snug, then release it gradually until he is sure it is comfortable to you.
Important Tip: Know Your “Drop”
In ready-made suit sizes, there are standard chest-to-waist “drops” in inches.
The drop is the difference between chest size and waist size. Normally, sizes from 36 to 44 have a 6-inch drop and 46 to 56 have a 5-inch drop. For example:
- Size 46 minus a 5-inch drop = 41-inch waist in trouser
So, if your overarm and chest measurements fit the example above, yet, your waist is 36 inches you should inquire about a “separates” collection the store may offer or consider custom-made clothing.
DO NOT allow yourself to be persuaded that the trouser can be altered more than 2 inches without completely losing the balance of its intended fit.
However, if you enjoy reaching for your car keys from the cheek of your rear-end, the uncomfortable smile from a high rise, and the fashion trend of one continuous back pocket, proceed and enjoy!
I’ve been in the men’s clothing business since 2000. My specialty is custom-tailored suits and shirts, as well as men’s accessories.
