Why Measurements Matter More Than Fabric
You can buy the most expensive lawn fabric or the finest cotton — but if the measurements are wrong, the finished garment will be unwearable. In Pakistan, a surprising number of stitching complaints come down to one thing: inaccurate measurements. Either the customer didn't measure correctly, or the tailor didn't record them carefully.
This guide teaches you how to take your own measurements correctly at home, so when you visit your tailor or order through TailorHub, the fit is perfect the first time.
What You'll Need
- A soft measuring tape (the kind used by tailors — not a metal carpenter's tape)
- A helper (much easier than measuring yourself)
- A notepad or your phone to record measurements
- Wear form-fitting clothing while being measured — not baggy clothes
Men's Measurements for Shalwar Kameez
Kameez Measurements
1. Kameez Length (قمیض کی لمبائی)
Measure from the top of your shoulder down to where you want the hem to fall — usually mid-thigh to knee. Common lengths: 40"–44" for regular fit.
2. Chest (سینہ)
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it parallel to the floor. Don't pull tight — breathe normally. Add 2"–3" for a comfortable fit.
3. Shoulder Width (کندھے کی چوڑائی)
Measure across the back from one shoulder seam to the other. This is one of the most important measurements — a wrong shoulder width ruins the entire look.
4. Sleeve Length (آستین کی لمبائی)
Bend your arm at the elbow at 90°. Measure from the center of the back of your neck, over the shoulder, down to the wrist bone.
5. Neck (گلا)
Measure around the base of your neck where the collar will sit. Add ½" for comfort.
Shalwar Measurements
6. Waist (کمر)
Measure around your natural waist — not where you wear your belt, but about 1" above your belly button.
7. Hip (کولہے)
Measure around the widest part of your hips/seat, about 8"–9" below your waist.
8. Shalwar Length (شلوار کی لمبائی)
Measure from your waist down to your ankle bone while standing straight.
9. Inseam (اندرونی پیمائش)
From your crotch to your ankle bone, measured on the inside of the leg.
Women's Additional Measurements
For ladies kurta and shalwar, all the above measurements apply, plus:
- Bust (بسٹ): Around the fullest part of the chest
- Back length: From the base of neck to waist
- Armhole: Around the upper arm where the sleeve attaches
- Bottom width: Desired width at the hem of the kameez
Quick Reference Measurement Chart
Here's a standard size guide for men's shalwar kameez in Pakistan:
- Small: Chest 36"–38", Shoulder 16.5", Length 41"
- Medium: Chest 38"–40", Shoulder 17", Length 42"
- Large: Chest 40"–42", Shoulder 17.5", Length 43"
- XL: Chest 42"–44", Shoulder 18", Length 44"
- XXL: Chest 44"–46", Shoulder 18.5", Length 45"
Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't measure over thick clothes — always wear a light, fitted shirt
- Don't hold your breath while measuring chest or waist
- Don't round up aggressively — give your tailor the exact measurement, they'll add ease
- Always double-check — take each measurement twice to confirm
Storing Your Measurements Digitally
Once you have all your measurements, store them in TailorHub's size card system. Your tailor records your measurements in the system and shares a personal size card link with you. Whenever you order new clothes, your measurements are ready — no re-measuring every time.