How to Measure Your Chest

The chest measurement is the single most important number for sizing tops, shirts and jackets.

What you'll need

A soft tape measure (the flexible kind, not a metal ruler) and, ideally, someone to help — though it's doable solo in front of a mirror.

Steps

1. Stand naturally, arms relaxed at your sides, breathing normally — don't puff your chest out or hold your breath.
2. Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, usually right across the nipple line.
3. Keep the tape parallel to the floor all the way around — it's easy for the back to ride up higher than the front.
4. Pull the tape snug against your body, but not tight enough to compress — you should be able to slide a finger underneath.
5. Read the measurement where the tape overlaps.

Common mistakes

Measuring over bulky clothing, letting the tape sag in the back, or measuring while flexing your chest — all of these inflate the number and can push you into the wrong size.

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