How to Measure Your Vintage Jeans
The Ultimate Guide to Measuring Jeans: Get the Perfect Fit Every Time
When it comes to denim, achieving a flattering fit is paramount.
Unlike many clothing items categorized by small/medium/large or numerical sizes (e.g., 8/10/12), jeans rely on specific waist and leg measurements to ensure a comfortable, stylish look.
Why Precise Measurements Matter
We believe fashion should feel as good as it looks.
A well-fitting pair of jeans forms the foundation of countless outfits, and with so many body types, the ability to choose from various waist and inseam measurements guarantees a perfect fit.
Traditional "one-size-fits-all" jeans often correlate leg length with waist size.
This means a smaller waist equates to a shorter leg length, an illogical approach considering our bodies come in all shapes and sizes.
Jeans sized in inches offer a much more accurate fit.
This guide will equip you with everything you need to measure jeans, including determining your size and achieving the most flattering fit.
Understanding Jean Sizing
Jeans are sized in inches, denoting both waist and leg length.
To compare international sizes when online shopping jeans, you should check out our Jeans Size Chart.
For instance, a pair of 32x32 jeans features a 32-inch waist and a 32-inch inseam (leg length).
Sometimes, you'll see jeans labeled as 32W and 32L, where "W" signifies waist and "L" represents leg length.
How to Measure Yourself for Jeans
Avoid endless dressing room trials by measuring yourself at home!
Grab a flexible measuring tape in inches.
Wrap the tape comfortably around your waist (not too tight, not too loose) and note the measurement.
To measure your inseam (leg length), take the tape measure and run it straight down the inner leg seam, starting from the crotch down to your ankle.
Record this measurement for future jean purchases.
How to Measure Your Existing Jeans
If you have a perfectly fitting pair of jeans but are unsure about the measurements, you can use them as a reference for future purchases or alterations.
Just like measuring yourself, you'll need a measuring tape in inches and something to jot down the numbers.
Measuring the Waistband
Lay your jeans flat on a smooth surface to measure the waistband.
Extend the tape measure across the entire waistband and double the number to get your waist measurement.
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Remember, your waist is typically narrower than your hips, so waist measurements may vary depending on the jean's rise (distance from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband).
Measuring the Inseam
Next, measure the inseam by running the tape measure along the inner seam from the crotch down to the hem (bottom edge) of the leg.
This will help you determine your ideal leg length for future purchases.
Measuring the Rise
You can also measure the rise to understand the fit.
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High-rise jeans generally exceed 10 inches, mid-rise styles fall between 8 and 9.5 inches, and low-rise jeans come in under 8 inches.
Finding Your Perfect Jean Fit
Once you have your measurements and understand your body type, it's time to explore different jean styles!
From skinny and slim-fit to bootcut and boyfriend, there's no single "right" fit.
Some people prefer a wider leg opening, while others favor a more streamlined silhouette.
The same applies to the rise.
High-waisted jeans flatter most body types, while mid-rise and low-rise styles are making a comeback.
Our comprehensive jeans size guide offers a detailed breakdown of various sizes in comparison.
By understanding your measurements, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect-fitting pair of jeans that complements your body and style.
More of Fashion Aftermath's Sustainable Fashion News
Browse our collection of Vintage Jeans, or learn how to measure a skirt.
