When it comes to custom workwear, getting the perfect fit is essential. Whether you're ordering branded uniforms for your team or personalised protective clothing, understanding how to measure for custom workwear sizing will ensure your garments fit beautifully and look professionally finished. At Print Reloaded, we've helped thousands of UK businesses get their custom clothing measurements spot-on, and we're here to share our expert guidance to help you do the same.
Poor measurements can lead to ill-fitting uniforms that damage your company's professional image and waste valuable budget. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every measurement you need to take, the tools required, and the best practices to follow when ordering custom workwear.
Why Accurate Custom Clothing Measurements Matter
Custom workwear represents a significant investment for any organisation. Your team members wear these garments daily, so comfort and fit are paramount. When measurements are inaccurate, you'll end up with clothing that's too tight, too loose, or simply doesn't flatter the wearer. This can impact employee morale, professional appearance, and even safety in certain industries.
Taking time to measure correctly at the outset saves money, reduces returns, and ensures your custom workwear order arrives ready to wear. Professional fit also enhances your brand identity, making your team look cohesive and polished when representing your business.
Essential Tools for Taking Measurements
Before you start measuring, gather the right tools. You'll need:
- A soft measuring tape (preferably fabric, not rigid metal)
- A notepad or spreadsheet to record measurements
- A mirror for checking measurement placement
- Comfortable, well-fitting clothing similar to what you'll be wearing
- A second person to assist (particularly helpful for back and shoulder measurements)
Avoid using string or rope as alternatives to a measuring tape, as these won't provide accurate readings. Invest in a proper fabric measuring tape; they're inexpensive and reusable for future orders.
How to Measure for Custom Workwear: Step-by-Step Instructions
Chest Measurement
The chest measurement is fundamental for determining the correct size. Wrap your measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it parallel to the ground. Ensure the tape sits comfortably, not too tight or loose. For workwear, you'll typically want a measurement that allows for layering and movement. Record this measurement to the nearest centimetre.
Waist Measurement
Measure around your natural waist, typically where your trousers sit. Keep the tape snug but not constrictive. This measurement is crucial for trousers, skirts, and fitted tops. Don't pull the tape tight; instead, leave enough room to slip a finger underneath comfortably.
Hip Measurement
For a complete picture of your custom clothing measurements, measure around the fullest part of your hips. This is usually about 20 centimetres below your waist. This measurement ensures that fitted workwear won't be restrictive around the lower body.
Shoulder Width
This measurement determines how well jackets and shirts will fit across the back. Ask someone to measure from the top of one shoulder to the top of the other. The tape should run horizontally across the back, roughly where your shoulder bones end. This is one measurement that's genuinely difficult to do alone.
Sleeve Length
For shirts and jackets, measure from the centre back neck, across the shoulder, and down to your wrist. Alternatively, you can measure from your shoulder point to your wrist. Keep your arm relaxed at your side during measurement. Proper sleeve length is essential for professional workwear appearance.
Trouser Length
Wear shoes similar to what you'll wear with your workwear. Measure from the top of your hip bone, straight down the outside of your leg to the top of your shoe. This ensures trousers will have the correct break at the ankle. For some workwear styles, you might prefer a slightly different length; note any preferences.
Neck Measurement
For shirts and polos, measure around your neck where the collar would sit. Keep the tape comfortable and not tight. This measurement is vital for ensuring shirts don't feel restrictive or gape at the neckline.
Inseam Measurement
For trousers, measure from the inner thigh down to your ankle. This gives the exact inseam length needed. Stand straight and have someone measure from your crotch seam down to where the trousers should end.
Tips for Accurate Custom Clothing Measurements
Always measure whilst wearing similar clothing to what you'll wear under your workwear. If you'll layer with jumpers, take measurements over a jumper. Stand straight and relaxed; slouching or tensing muscles will produce inaccurate measurements.
Take each measurement twice to ensure consistency. If your two readings differ, take a third measurement and use the average. Record measurements in both centimetres and inches if ordering from international suppliers.
Consider the type of workwear you're ordering. Protective clothing might need slightly larger measurements for safety and movement, whilst more tailored pieces should be closer to your actual body measurements.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you're ordering custom workwear for multiple team members, consider having a professional tailor take measurements. Many tailors offer bulk measurement services at reasonable rates. Alternatively, Print Reloaded provides expert guidance on custom clothing measurements and can answer specific questions about sizing for your particular garments.
Conclusion
Learning how to measure for custom workwear sizing doesn't require specialist skills, just patience, accurate tools, and careful attention to detail. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll ensure your custom workwear arrives perfectly fitted, comfortable, and ready to represent your business professionally. Whether you're ordering branded t-shirts, tailored jackets, or complete uniform sets, accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful custom clothing order. Take your time, measure twice, and enjoy the confidence that comes with workwear that fits just right.
