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Style guide · Atelier Mesure, Paris 7th

Suit Measurement Guide

Precise measurement taking guarantees the perfect cut for your made-to-measure suit

5 chapters2 min read
Measurement taking by a master tailor

The Art of Measurement Taking

Precise and comprehensive measurement taking guarantees the perfect cut: chest circumference, shoulder length, back width, trouser break... Unlike standardised off-the-peg (S/M/L), the adjusted fitting adapts to your posture: sloping shoulders, natural asymmetry, arm length. During the first appointment of 20-30 minutes, our tailor takes your measurements and analyses your build to define the ideal cut. Between the first and second fitting, adjustments focus on the shoulder line, waist suppression and jacket balance.

  • Every body is unique: natural asymmetries, posture, limb lengths
  • Off-the-peg offers 5-6 sizes. Made-to-measure adjusts the fitting to your body
  • Once your measurements are taken, discover our two-piece suit, our three-piece suit, or explore our 3,000+ premium fabrics

Jacket Measurements

8-10 Measurements
Jacket Measurements

The jacket requires the most numerous and precise measurements, as it must fit the torso, shoulders and arms perfectly while allowing complete freedom of movement.

  • Chest circumference: taken at the fullest point, beneath the armpits
  • Waist circumference: at navel level, to determine the suppression
  • Shoulder width: from one end to the other, determines the frame
  • Back length: from the collar to the waist, for the overall balance
  • Sleeve length: from the shoulder to the wrist, arm slightly bent
  • Neck circumference: base of the neck, for the shirt collar
  • Back width: width of the back between the armpits
  • Total jacket length: according to preference (covering the seat)
Our master tailor takes measurements with you standing naturally, arms at your sides. We always measure both sides of the body, as an asymmetry of 1-2cm is common and entirely normal.

These measurements form the foundation. During the fitting, we refine the fit for optimum comfort.

Trouser Measurements

6-8 Measurements
Trouser Measurements

Made-to-measure trousers adapt to your build: high or low rise, muscular or slim thighs, leg length. Every detail counts for a perfect fit.

  • Waist circumference: where you usually wear your trousers
  • Hip circumference: at the widest point of the seat
  • Thigh circumference: upper thigh to determine fullness
  • Inside leg: from the crotch to the floor, barefoot
  • Outside leg length: full outer length
  • Knee circumference: to adjust the trouser line
  • Trouser hem: desired width at the ankle
  • Break: how the trouser should sit on the shoe
Measurements are taken standing, feet slightly apart. We take into account your preferred wearing height (natural waist or slightly lower) and your specific build.

The cost of a suit depends in part on the complexity of your build. Consult our price guide.

Body Analysis

Full Assessment
Body Analysis

Beyond numerical measurements, our tailor analyses your posture, silhouette and physical particularities to adjust the base pattern perfectly to you.

  • General posture: straight back, rounded, lumbar curve
  • Shoulder balance: symmetrical or one higher/lower
  • Head carriage: forward, upright, inclined
  • Silhouette: frame, torso length vs leg length
  • Particularities: stomach, prominent seat, developed pectorals
  • Natural asymmetries: 80% of people have asymmetries
  • Mobility: range of arm and shoulder movement
  • Preferences: fitted or with more ease
The body analysis identifies particularities that require specific adjustments: one shoulder higher, a rounded back, a prominent stomach, various asymmetries.

This analysis enables us to create a suit that does more than simply fit - it flatters you.

Successive Fittings

1 Fitting
Successive Fittings

The initial measurements are refined over successive fittings. This is what truly distinguishes made-to-measure: progressive adjustment until perfection.

  • Fitting 1 - Toile: checking the shoulder line and overall balance
  • Major adjustments: frame, lengths, proportions
  • Fitting 2 - Assembled: suit in the final fabric, unfinished
  • Fine adjustments: suppression, sleeve length, trouser drape
  • Fitting 3 - Final: ultimate check before delivery
  • Minor adjustments: final details, hems
  • Between each fitting: 2-3 weeks of tailoring work
  • Total duration: 4 weeks (5 for Hand-Finished) from the first appointment to delivery
Each fitting has a specific objective within the adjustment process. Corrections are made progressively to guarantee the final result.

This iterative process guarantees a fit impossible to achieve with off-the-peg or semi-bespoke.

Frequently asked questions

Before you begin.

Off-the-peg uses standardised sizes based on statistical averages. A 50R (average men's size) assumes a 100cm chest, 86cm waist, 64cm arm length. If you deviate from these averages, the garment cannot fit properly. Made-to-measure adjusts the pattern to YOUR exact measurements, not to a theoretical average.

Yes, measurements can evolve with age, weight gain or loss, or a change in exercise routine. That is why we recommend retaking measurements every 2-3 years or after a significant weight change (+/-5kg). At Atelier Mesure, we keep your measurements on file and can create new suits without a new appointment if your build has not changed.

We advise against it. Professional measurement taking requires experience and technique. A tailor knows where to place the tape, what tension to apply, how to account for posture. An error of 1-2cm on a key measurement can compromise the final fit. Moreover, certain measurements (back width, shoulder balance) are impossible to take alone. A professional body analysis is irreplaceable.

Asymmetries are extremely common - 80% of people have one shoulder slightly higher than the other. This is precisely why made-to-measure exists. We measure both sides of the body and adjust the pattern accordingly. One shoulder may be padded differently, one sleeve cut slightly longer. These invisible adjustments create a perfect visual balance.

A made-to-measure suit can accommodate fluctuations of +/-2-3kg without issue. Beyond that, alterations are necessary. If you anticipate weight loss or gain (diet, strength training), let us know: we will adjust the fitting schedule to take final measurements as close to your target weight as possible. A change in build after measurements were taken is not covered by the complimentary alteration appointment and may require a quote.

From rules to practice · Paris 7th

The advisory appointment covers buttoning, colour pairings and the mistakes to avoid, with your adviser. No obligation.
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