THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO MEASURING JEANS
When it comes to denim, you definitely can’t take the one-size-fits-all approach! While most clothing sizes are determined by either small/medium/large, or 8/10/12, the best way to guarantee that your pair of jeans will fit you perfectly is by opting for a pair that have specific waist and leg measurements.
We believe that fashion should feel as good as it looks — so a good fitting pair of jeans is an essential. No two bodies are the same - and being able to choose from different waist sizes and leg lengths when shopping for a pair of jeans means that you’ll end up with a pair that fits properly and looks amazing.
With a standard pair of jeans using the one-size-fits-all approach, the leg length usually coincides with the waist size. So, a smaller waist means a shorter leg. But since all bodies are different, this isn’t the most logical approach to take — and jeans measured in inches are guaranteed to have a much better fit. Read on for our ultimate guide to measuring jeans, including how to measure your jean size and what the best jeans fit is.
WE BELIEVE THAT FASHION SHOULD FEEL AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS
HOW DO I KNOW MY SIZE IN JEANS?
Jeans sizes are measured in inches, starting with the waist and moving to the leg length. For example, a 32x32 jean would have a 32 inch waist and a 32 inch inseam, which is what determines the leg length.
Sometimes, a pair of jeans will be labelled as 32W and 32L to make things even easier. The ‘W’ stands for waist size, while the ‘L’ stands for leg length. To figure out what your size is in jeans, you’ll need to get measuring!
HOW TO MEASURE YOUR WAIST SIZE AND LEG LENGTH
If you’re unsure of your waist and leg length, to avoid having to try on all the jeans in the shop, it makes sense to measure yourself from home. Begin with a lengthy measuring tape which reads in inches. Wrap the tape around your waist and take hold of the other side-- not too snug, not too loose. Read and record the number before moving onto your leg measurements.
To find your leg length you’ll want to measure the inseam. Take your tape measure and measure straight down the inside leg from the crotch to the ankle, before writing down the measurements. Keep your results safe, as you’ll need to remember these whenever you buy a new pair of jeans!
HOW TO MEASURE YOUR JEANS
If you already have a pair of perfect-fitting jeans but you’re unsure on the waist and leg length, you can take their measurements to use as a guide when buying your next pair. You can also measure your jeans if you’re thinking about taking in the waist or making some other adjustments. Just like when you’re measuring yourself, you’ll need a measuring tape which measures in inches, and your phone on standby to record down the numbers.
MEASURE THE WAISTBAND
To measure the waistband, begin by laying your jeans flat on an even surface. Stretch your tape measure along the entire waist band, then double the number to find your waist measurement. Since your waist is generally slimmer than your hips, keep in mind that waist measurements will likely be different depending on the rise of the jean!
MEASURE THE INSEAM
Next, measure the inseam of your jeans by running the tape measure from the crotch seam to the ankle hem. This will help you figure out your desired leg length.
MEASURE THE RISE
You can also take measurements to figure out the rise of the jeans. High rise jeans tend to be above 10”, while mid-rise are between 8” and 9.5”, and low rise are below 8”.
WHAT IS THE BEST FIT FOR JEANS?
Once you know your ideal fit, it’s time to pick your favourite style. From skinny and slim fit to bootleg and boyfriend, there’s no right or wrong when it comes to the fit of your jeans. Some people prefer a wider leg while others prefer a slimmer leg-- and the same goes for the rise of your jeans. High waisted jeans are a flattering option for all bodies, while mid- or low-rise jeans are slowly creeping back on trend again. Our jeans guide will give you some inspiration for the kinds of jean styles available.
Knowing your measurements will help you find the perfect-fitting pair of jeans for your body. Take a look at our collection of men’s jeans and women’s jeans, or for more style tips, read all about our complete guide to denim terminology, or discover how to shrink your jeans.