Measure For Costuming

When taking these measurements, use a cloth tape measure, not a metal one. Make sure that, when you circle the chest, waist, or hips, the tape is level and neither too tight nor too loose.

How To Measure Chest

Measure the circumference of the chest. Place one end of the tape measure at the fullest part of the bust, wrap it around (under the armpits, around the shoulder blades, and back to the front) to get the measurement.

How To Measure Waist

Measure the circumference of the waist. Use the tape to circle the waist (sort of like a belt would) at the natural waistline, which is located above the belly button and below the rib cage. (If the dancer bends to the side, the crease that forms is the natural waistline.) Dancers should not suck in their stomach, or you’ll get a false measurement.

How to Measure Hip

Measure the circumference of the hips. Start at one hip and wrap the tape measure around the rear, around the other hip, and back to where you started. Make sure the tape is over the largest part of the buttocks.

How to Measure Neck-to-Waist

Measure from the base of the neck (in the center, not the side) to the center of the waistline. Measure to the natural waist.