How to Take Body Measurements for Pinup Dresses: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Take Body Measurements for Pinup Dresses: A Step-by-Step Guide

To achieve the perfect fit, accurate body measurements are essential. Here's a comprehensive guide to taking your measurements for pinup dresses, ensuring a flawless fit that celebrates your unique shape.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

Pinup dresses are crafted to enhance your silhouette, often with snug bodices, defined waists, and flared skirts. Unlike off-the-rack clothing, which is designed to fit a range of body types, pinup dresses require precise measurements to deliver their signature look. Poorly fitting garments can be uncomfortable and unflattering, so taking the time to measure correctly is crucial.

What You'll Need

  • A soft measuring tape
  • A full-length mirror
  • A notepad and pen
  • A friend to help (optional but super helpful)

Click here for a step by step video!

Key Measurements

Here are the essential measurements you'll need for a pinup dress:

  1. Bust
  2. Waist
  3. Hips

Step-by-Step Measurement Guide

1. Bust

  • How to Measure: Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, making sure it is parallel to the floor and snug but not tight.
  • Tip: Wear a well-fitting bra for the most accurate measurement.

2. Waist

  • How to Measure: Find your natural waistline by bending to one side; the crease that forms is your natural waist. Wrap the measuring tape around this point, keeping it parallel to the floor.
  • Tip: Avoid sucking in your stomach to ensure a comfortable fit.

3. Hips

  • How to Measure: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks, ensuring the tape is level and not too tight.
  • Tip: Stand with your feet together for an accurate measurement.

  • How to Measure: Measure from the fullest part of your bust straight down to your natural waist.
  • Tip: This is crucial for ensuring that the waistline of the dress sits correctly on your body.

Additional Tips

  • Repeat Measurements: Take each measurement at least twice to ensure accuracy.
  • Get Assistance: If possible, have a friend help you with the measurements, especially for hard-to-reach areas like the shoulder to bust point.
  • Record Carefully: Write down each measurement as soon as you take it to avoid confusion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using a Rigid Tape Measure: Always use a flexible, soft measuring tape to contour your body correctly.
  • Measuring Over Clothes: For the most accurate measurements, measure directly against your skin or over thin, form-fitting clothing.
  • Not Standing Straight: Maintain good posture while measuring to avoid errors, especially for vertical measurements.

Conclusion

Taking accurate body measurements is a crucial step in achieving the perfect fit for your pinup dress. With these guidelines, you can ensure that your dress will hug your curves in all the right places, enhancing your natural beauty and confidence. So grab your measuring tape, and step into the world of vintage glamour with the perfect fit!

Whether you’re a seasoned pinup aficionado or new to the style, following these steps will help you capture the essence of the timeless, flattering silhouette that pinup dresses are renowned for. 

If you would like us to send you your very own Pinup Canada tape measure (free of charge!), send an email to info@pinupcanada.com with your name and mailing address. We want all of our customers to have the perfect fit!

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