Measuring yourself for a fur coat is a crucial step in ensuring a perfect fit, as fur coats are often made to order and alterations can be challenging and expensive. Whether you’re investing in a luxurious fur coat for the first time or looking to upgrade your existing wardrobe, understanding how to take your measurements accurately is essential. In this article, we will delve into the world of fur coats, discussing the importance of proper measurements, the tools you’ll need, and a step-by-step guide on how to measure yourself.
Understanding the Importance of Proper Measurements
Proper measurements are the foundation of a well-fitting fur coat. A fur coat that fits impeccably not only enhances your appearance but also ensures comfort and longevity. A good fit means the coat will drape elegantly on your body, accentuating your silhouette without restrictions or excessive bulk. Moreover, accurate measurements help in choosing the right size, which is critical since fur coats are typically custom-made or have limited size adjustments. Incorrect measurements can lead to a coat that is either too tight, restricting movement, or too loose, compromising the coat’s aesthetic appeal.
The Tools You’ll Need
Before you start measuring yourself, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools. You will need:
- A flexible measuring tape, preferably made of plastic or fabric, as metal tapes can be too rigid.
- A full-length mirror to see how the coat will fit and to ensure you’re taking measurements in the correct positions.
- A pen and paper or a digital device to record your measurements.
How to Measure Yourself
Measuring yourself for a fur coat involves taking several key measurements. It’s crucial to follow each step carefully to ensure accuracy.
- Height: While not directly related to the fit of the coat, your height can influence the style of the coat you choose. Taller individuals may prefer longer coats, while shorter individuals might opt for shorter styles to avoid overwhelming their frame.
- Bust/Chest Measurement: This is one of the most critical measurements. To take your bust or chest measurement, wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape level and parallel to the floor. Make sure the tape is not too tight or too loose; it should feel like a second skin. Record this measurement.
- Waist Measurement: Measure around the narrowest part of your natural waistline, keeping the tape level and snug. This measurement helps in determining how the coat will fit around your waist.
- Hip Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, approximately 7-9 inches (18-23 cm) below your waistline. This measurement is crucial for ensuring the coat fits well over your hips.
- Length: Decide on the length of the coat you prefer. Measure from the base of your neck, over your shoulder, and down to the desired length. You can also measure from the top of your shoulder, down your arm, and then along your side to the desired coat length for a more accurate fit.
- Sleeve Length: To measure your sleeve length, start at the center back of your neck, measure over your shoulder, down your arm, and end at your wrist. This ensures the sleeves of your fur coat will be the perfect length.
Additional Measurements
Depending on the style of the coat and your personal preferences, you might need to take additional measurements. These could include:
- Shoulder Slope: Measuring the slope of your shoulders can help in achieving a more tailored fit, especially for coats with fitted shoulders.
- Armhole Depth: This measurement is essential for coats with fitted sleeves, ensuring the armhole is deep enough for comfort and movement.
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
For a more visual approach, follow this simplified step-by-step guide:
- Start by standing up straight in front of a mirror.
- Take your bust/chest measurement, ensuring the tape is level and comfortable.
- Move down to your waist and take that measurement, remembering to keep the tape snug but not too tight.
- Measure your hips, ensuring the tape is level and at the correct position.
- Decide on and measure the desired length of your coat, considering factors like your height and personal style.
- Measure your sleeve length for a perfect fit.
Tips for Accurate Measurements
- Use a mirror to see what you’re doing and to ensure the tape is in the correct position.
- Keep the measuring tape level and parallel to the floor for accurate measurements.
- Don’t pull the tape too tight, as this can result in measurements that are too small.
- Consider having someone help you, especially for measurements that are harder to take on your own, like the shoulder slope.
- Record your measurements carefully and consider taking them more than once to ensure accuracy.
Conclusion
Measuring yourself for a fur coat is a precise process that requires patience and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking the time to ensure your measurements are accurate, you can look forward to enjoying a beautifully fitting fur coat that reflects your personal style and provides comfort and warmth for years to come. Remember, a well-fitting fur coat is not just a piece of clothing; it’s an investment in your wardrobe and your confidence. With the right measurements and a little bit of knowledge, you can navigate the world of fur coats with ease, finding the perfect piece that makes you feel elegant, sophisticated, and truly unique.
What are the essential measurements needed to order a fur coat?
To determine the correct size of a fur coat, several key measurements are required. These typically include the chest or bust measurement, waist measurement, hip measurement, and the length of the coat desired. The chest or bust measurement is taken around the fullest part of the chest, keeping the tape measure level and parallel to the floor. For women, this is usually taken under the arms, across the bust, and around to the back, ensuring the tape is level and not too tight. For men, this measurement is taken around the chest, under the arms, and across the back.
These measurements are crucial because they help in selecting a coat that not only fits well but also provides the desired silhouette. Additionally, knowing one’s measurements allows for a more accurate selection when shopping online, reducing the likelihood of needing alterations or exchanges. It’s also important to consider the style of the coat, as different styles may require additional measurements, such as the sleeve length or the circumference of the neck. Taking the time to accurately measure oneself can make a significant difference in the overall fit and satisfaction with the fur coat.
How do I take my measurements for a fur coat accurately at home?
Taking accurate measurements for a fur coat at home can be done with a few simple tools and some assistance. The primary tool needed is a flexible tape measure. It’s helpful to have someone assist you in taking the measurements, especially for the chest, waist, and hip areas, as this ensures the tape measure is kept level and in the correct position. Start by standing up straight and relaxing your muscles. For the chest measurement, place the tape measure under your arms, around the fullest part of your chest, and ensure it’s parallel to the floor. For women, this is particularly important as it helps in getting the best fit for the bust area.
When taking measurements like the waist and hip, it’s essential to keep the tape measure comfortably snug but not too tight, as this can lead to inaccurate measurements. For the waist, find your natural waistline, which is usually just above the belly button, and take the measurement around this area. For the hips, measure around the fullest part, usually about 7-9 inches below the waistline. Writing down each measurement and comparing them to the size chart provided by the furrier or retailer can help ensure the best possible fit for your new fur coat. It’s also recommended to take these measurements at the same time of day, as body measurements can fluctuate.
What is the difference between a fitted and a loose-fitting fur coat, and how do measurements impact the choice?
A fitted fur coat is designed to closely follow the contours of the body, emphasizing the wearer’s silhouette. In contrast, a loose-fitting fur coat provides a more relaxed, casual look and can be more forgiving in terms of fit. When choosing between these styles, measurements play a critical role. For a fitted coat, precise measurements are essential to ensure a flattering fit that accentuates the body’s shape without being too constricting. On the other hand, a loose-fitting coat allows for more flexibility in measurements, as it’s designed to be worn more casually and can accommodate a range of body types.
However, even with a loose-fitting style, accurate measurements are necessary to avoid a coat that is either too large and overwhelming or too small and tight. For individuals with specific body types, such as a petite frame or a larger bust, understanding how measurements translate to different coat styles can help in selecting the most flattering option. Consulting with a professional furrier can also provide valuable insights, as they can offer guidance based on the specific fur type, coat style, and the measurements provided, ensuring the best possible fit and look.
Can I use my existing clothing sizes as a reference for ordering a fur coat?
While it might be tempting to use your existing clothing sizes as a reference for ordering a fur coat, it’s generally not recommended. Clothing sizes can vary significantly between brands and styles, and fur coats have their own specific sizing requirements due to the nature of the material and the construction of the garment. Fur coats are typically made to fit closely to the body to showcase the fur and provide the best insulation, which means that the sizing may differ from what you’re used to with other types of coats.
Using your clothing size as a reference without taking specific measurements for a fur coat could lead to an ill-fitting coat. Instead, consult the sizing chart provided by the furrier or retailer and take your measurements according to their guidelines. This ensures that you get a coat that fits you perfectly, regardless of what size you normally wear in other clothing. If possible, visiting a physical store where you can try on coats or consulting with a professional can also help in determining the best size based on your specific measurements and the style of the coat.
How often should I retake my measurements for a fur coat, especially if I’ve gained or lost weight?
It’s a good idea to retake your measurements for a fur coat if you’ve experienced significant weight changes, as this can affect the fit of the coat. Weight fluctuations can alter body measurements, potentially changing the way a fur coat fits. For significant weight changes, such as gaining or losing more than 10 pounds, it’s advisable to retake your measurements to ensure the best fit. Even if you haven’t experienced weight changes, if you’re considering purchasing a new fur coat, it’s a good practice to retake your measurements, as body measurements can change over time due to various factors, including aging and changes in body composition.
Retaking measurements is especially important if you’re ordering a custom or bespoke fur coat, as the fit is tailored specifically to your body. For ready-to-wear coats, understanding how weight changes might affect the fit can help in selecting the correct size or in determining if alterations might be necessary. Keeping track of your measurements over time can also help in maintaining a good fit and ensuring that your fur coat continues to look its best. Regularly updating your measurements can save time and potential costs associated with alterations or exchanges.
What role do length and sleeve measurements play in the overall fit of a fur coat?
The length and sleeve measurements of a fur coat play a significant role in the overall fit and aesthetic appeal of the garment. The length of the coat can greatly affect the silhouette, with longer coats often providing a more dramatic, luxurious look and shorter coats offering a more modern, streamlined appearance. Sleeve measurements are also critical, as they ensure that the coat’s sleeves are the correct length for the wearer, providing comfort and preventing the sleeves from being too short or too long.
Accurate sleeve and length measurements are essential for both functional and stylistic reasons. If the sleeves are too short, they can make the coat look ill-fitting and might not provide adequate coverage or warmth. Conversely, sleeves that are too long can overwhelm the body and detract from the overall appearance of the coat. The length of the coat also needs to be considered in relation to the wearer’s height and body proportions to achieve a balanced look. A professional furrier can offer guidance on selecting the most flattering length and sleeve style based on individual measurements and preferences.
Can alterations be made to a fur coat if the initial measurements are incorrect, and what are the limitations?
While alterations can be made to a fur coat if the initial measurements are incorrect, there are limitations to what can be achieved. Fur coats can be altered, but due to the nature of the material, certain changes might not be possible or could be very costly. Simple alterations like adjusting the sleeve length or letting out seams might be feasible, depending on the construction of the coat. However, more significant changes, such as altering the overall size of the coat or making substantial adjustments to the fit, can be challenging and may not always produce satisfactory results.
The limitations of alterations on a fur coat are largely due to the fragility and uniqueness of fur as a material. Unlike other fabrics, fur cannot be simply cut and re-sewn without risking damage to the fur itself. Moreover, the process of altering a fur coat requires specialized skills and equipment, making it a costly and time-consuming process. In some cases, it might be more advisable to consider a new coat rather than attempting extensive alterations. Consulting with a professional furrier can provide a clearer understanding of what alterations are possible and the associated costs, helping you make an informed decision about the best course of action for your fur coat.