Updated: June 21, 2026 | Written by Saroj Jain, Fashion Designer, Bangalore
Taking accurate body measurements is the most important step in ordering custom clothes. A measurement error of even one inch can change how an outfit fits. At our JP Nagar boutique, we take 5 measurements for a kurta and 7 for a blouse. For online orders, we guide clients through measuring themselves at home. The key is using a flexible measuring tape, wearing fitted clothing while measuring, and keeping the tape snug but not tight. Loose measurements result in baggy outfits. Tight measurements result in clothes you cannot breathe in.
This guide covers how to take each measurement correctly for kurtas, blouses, sarees, and lehengas. Saroj Jain offers custom stitching for all body types. Shop at sarojjain.com or send your measurements via WhatsApp at +91 93140 78524.
Quick Summary
- Use a flexible measuring tape. A cloth tailor tape works best. Do not use a metal ruler
- Wear fitted clothing like a thin T-shirt and leggings while measuring
- Keep the tape snug against the body but not tight enough to press into the skin
- Measure twice and write down both readings. Use the larger measurement if they differ
- Send clear notes about fit preference: slim, regular, or loose
How to Measure for a Kurta or Co-Ord Set
A kurta needs 5 measurements for a good fit. Shoulder width: measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other across the back. The tape should follow the natural curve of your shoulders. Bust: measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the floor. Waist: measure around the narrowest part of your waist, usually 1 to 2 inches above the belly button. Hip: measure around the fullest part of your hips, about 7 to 9 inches below the waist. Length: measure from the top of your shoulder at the neck base down to where you want the kurta to end. For a kurta that ends at the knee, measure from shoulder to knee. For a co-ord set top, measure from shoulder to the desired hemline.
The Yellow Chikankari Co-Ord Set (Rs. 2,490) and other ready-to-wear pieces at Saroj Jain come in standard sizes S to 3XL. If you are between sizes or want a specific fit, custom stitching is recommended. We have stitched for women of all sizes and can adjust any pattern to your measurements. For online orders, send your 5 measurements with a note about your preferred fit. Slim fit adds 1 inch to measurements. Regular fit adds 2 inches. Loose fit adds 3 to 4 inches.
How to Measure for a Blouse
A blouse needs 7 measurements for a proper fit. The blouse is the most fit-sensitive piece because any gap or tightness is immediately visible under a saree. Bust: measure around the fullest part. Underbust: measure directly under the bust. Waist: measure at the narrowest point. Shoulder: measure from shoulder edge to shoulder edge. Armhole: measure around the top of your arm where the arm meets the shoulder. Sleeve length: measure from the shoulder edge to the desired sleeve end. Blouse length: measure from the top of the shoulder at the neck to the desired blouse hemline at the waist.
The blouse back neck design you choose also affects the fit. A deep V back needs a different pattern than a high back. When sending measurements for a custom blouse, include the back neck design reference. We recommend getting measured at our JP Nagar boutique for the first blouse and then reusing those measurements for future orders. Your body measurements change over time, so we recommend new measurements every 6 to 12 months.
Measurement Guide Comparison
| Garment Type | Measurements Needed | Key Measurement | Common Mistake |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kurta | 5: shoulder, bust, waist, hip, length | Shoulder width | Measuring too loose |
| Blouse | 7: bust, underbust, waist, shoulder, armhole, sleeve, length | Bust and armhole | Tight armhole restricts movement |
| Lehenga skirt | 4: waist, hip, length, floor length | Waist to floor | Forgetting heel height |
| Saree blouse | 7: same as blouse above | Underbust | Gaps at the back |
| Sherwani (men) | 6: shoulder, chest, waist, hip, sleeve, length | Chest | Tight across shoulders |
Tips for Accurate Measurements at Home
Use a fabric measuring tape. Paper tapes and metal rulers do not work for body measurements. Ask someone to help you. Self-measuring is less accurate because you move while taking the reading. Stand straight with your arms at your sides. Do not slouch or puff out your chest. Breathe normally while measuring. Do not hold your breath. Measure over thin clothing. Thick fabric adds inches to the reading. Write down each measurement immediately. Do not rely on memory. If you are between two numbers, round up to the nearest half inch. A slightly looser garment can be adjusted. A tight one cannot be fixed without adding fabric. The Steel Blue Chanderi Kurta Set (Rs. 2,499) in chanderi fabric has a softer drape that accommodates slight measurement variations better than stiff fabrics.
How to Send Measurements to Saroj Jain
You can send your measurements via WhatsApp at +91 93140 78524 or through the website at sarojjain.com. Include your name, the garment type, all 5 to 7 measurements, and your fit preference. If you are ordering a blouse, include the back neck design reference. If you are ordering a lehenga, include your heel height for accurate floor-length measurement. We will confirm receipt and provide a timeline for your custom order. International clients from the UK, US, UAE, Canada, and Australia can also send measurements for custom orders. We ship worldwide. For the best results, book a virtual consultation at meet.sarojjain.com where we can guide you through the measurement process over video.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my measurements fall between two sizes?
For custom orders, we adjust the pattern to your exact measurements. For ready-to-wear, choose the larger size and get it altered locally.
How often should I update my measurements?
Every 6 to 12 months. Weight changes, posture changes, and age affect body measurements. Using old measurements can result in a poor fit.
Do I need to measure for a co-ord set differently?
Yes. A co-ord set top is measured like a kurta top but shorter. The bottom is measured like leggings or palazzo pants. Include waist, hip, and inseam measurements.
What is the most common measurement mistake?
Measuring the shoulder width incorrectly. People often measure too wide or too narrow. Have someone help you measure edge to edge across the back.
Can men send measurements for custom kurtas?
Yes. Men send shoulder, chest, waist, hip, sleeve, and length measurements. Include fit preference. We custom stitch men's kurtas and sherwanis.
Where can I get measured in person in Bangalore?
Visit Saroj Jain boutique in JP Nagar. We take professional measurements for all garment types. Book at meet.sarojjain.com.
Send your measurements at sarojjain.com. WhatsApp +91 93140 78524. Book a virtual consultation at meet.sarojjain.com.