Gown and anarkali measurements

The measurements, and how to take them

Use a soft tape over thin clothing. Give body measurements only; the tailor adds ease for the style you choose.

• Bust, underbust, waist, hips: The standard four, tape level, over thin clothing: fullest chest, band line under the bust, natural waist, fullest seat.
• Shoulder width and armhole: Seam to seam across the back; around the shoulder joint with the arm relaxed.
• Sleeve length: Shoulder seam to desired end; for flowing sleeves give the exact point on the arm.
• Gown length: From the highest point of the shoulder straight to the floor, in the heels you will wear. Typically 132 to 145 cm depending on height and heel.
• Flare start (for anarkali): From the shoulder down to where the fitted bodice should end and the flare begin, usually at or just above the natural waist.

Mistakes that ruin the fit

• Measuring gown length in flats and deciding on heels later.
• Skipping the underbust on an anarkali; the bodice is fitted there and guesswork shows.
• Letting the tape wander diagonally on the length; it must run straight down.

Or skip the tape entirely

Scan yourself with your phone camera on Silai: about 2 minutes, free, no tape and no second person. You get every measurement on this page, saved as your naap for any tailor on the platform, in any city or country.

How the scan works Try it on the Pre-Loved rack

Common questions

How much gap should a gown leave at the floor?

About 2 to 3 cm with your shoes on, enough to walk without stepping on the hem while still reading as floor-length.

Anarkali and gown: same measurements?

Nearly. The anarkali adds the flare-start point and cares more about the underbust, because the classic cut is fitted through the bodice and free below.

More guides

Saree blouse measurements · Kurta and kurti measurements · Lehenga measurements · Salwar kameez measurements · What measurements does a tailor need?