Shopping for a new coat can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure what size to get. Coats come in all different shapes and sizes, and it can be hard to know which one will fit you best. If you’re not able to try on a coat before you buy it, it’s important to know how to measure your size so that you can get a good fit. Fortunately, measuring your coat size is relatively easy to do. With a few simple steps, you can ensure that you find a coat that fits you perfectly.
The first step is to measure your chest. To do this, wrap a measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits. Make sure the tape is snug, but not too tight. Once you have your chest measurement, add 4 inches to it. This will give you your coat size.
For example, if your chest measurement is 40 inches, then your coat size would be 44.
Once you have your coat size, you can use it to find a coat that fits you well. When trying on a coat, make sure that it fits snugly around your chest and shoulders. The sleeves should come to your wrists, and the hem should fall just below your hips. If the coat is too big or too small, it won’t be comfortable or flattering.
Determining Coat Length
Measuring Back Length
To determine the back length, you’ll need a flexible measuring tape. Start by placing the end of the tape at the base of your dog’s neck, where the collar would sit. Gently run the tape along the dog’s back, keeping it straight and avoiding any curves. Measure to the base of the tail, where the tail connects to the body. This is your dog’s back length.
Measuring Chest Girth
To measure the chest girth, place the tape around the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind the front legs. Keep the tape snug but not tight. Read the measurement where the tape meets itself. This is your dog’s chest girth.
Measuring Neck Girth
To measure the neck girth, place the tape around your dog’s neck, where the collar would sit. Keep the tape snug but not tight. Read the measurement where the tape meets itself. This is your dog’s neck girth.
| Measurement | How to Measure |
|---|---|
| Back Length | From the base of the neck to the base of the tail |
| Chest Girth | Around the widest part of the chest |
| Neck Girth | Around the neck where the collar would sit |
Measuring Chest Circumference
Measuring the chest circumference is essential for determining the correct coat size. This measurement represents the widest part of the chest, typically just under the armpits. Follow these steps to obtain the chest circumference:
Materials:
- Flexible measuring tape
Instructions:
- Have the individual stand up straight with their arms relaxed at their sides.
- Locate the widest point of the chest, usually just under the armpits.
Tip: If the individual has a protruding chest, measure the circumference at the fullest part of the chest. For individuals with a smaller or less defined chest, measure at the nipple line.
- Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of the chest, keeping it parallel to the ground and snug but not too tightly.
- Note the measurement where the tape meets the starting point.
- Record the chest circumference measurement in inches or centimeters.
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Measurement Note |
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The chest circumference measurement should be taken with the individual wearing a thin shirt or undergarment for a snug but comfortable fit. |
Additional Tips:
- If the measurement is between two sizes, it’s recommended to go with the larger size for a more comfortable fit.
- Consider the individual’s body type, as well as the intended purpose of the coat (e.g., casual, formal, or athletic).
- Apple shape: Wide chest and waist; choose coats with a deep V-neck or A-line silhouette.
- Pear shape: Wider hips than shoulders; opt for coats that accentuate the waist and have a flared hemline.
- Rectangle shape: Straight body with similar shoulder and hip measurements; choose coats with tailored lines and waist definition.
- Hourglass shape: Well-defined waist and curves; coats with cinched waists and flared skirts complement this body type.
- Regular Back
Measure from the base of your neck (where your collarbone meets your shoulder) to the bottom edge of the coat, stopping just above the waist.
- Long Back
Measure from the base of your neck to the tail of the coat, ensuring it covers your buttocks.
- Extended Back
Measure from the base of your neck to below the tail of the coat. This length is ideal for taller individuals or those who prefer a more generous fit.
- Chest: Measure around the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind the front legs. The tape measure should be snug but not too tight.
- Neck: Measure around the base of your dog’s neck, where the collar would typically rest. Again, the tape measure should be snug but comfortable.
- Chest Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape measure parallel to the ground. Ensure that it is snug but not constricting.
- Waist Measurement: Measure around your natural waistline, where your body naturally bends to the side. Keep the tape measure relaxed, but not too loose.
- Hip Measurement: Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips, approximately 8-10 inches below your natural waistline.
- Sleeve Length: Bend your elbow at a 90-degree angle and place your hand on your opposite shoulder. Measure from the center of your neck, along the outside of your arm, to your wrist bone.
- Back Length: Measure from the base of your neck, where the collar meets your back, to the hem of the coat where you want it to end.
- Excess fabric around the chest, waist, and hips
- Sleeves that extend past your wrists
- Shoulder seams that extend beyond your natural shoulders
- Tightness around the chest, waist, or hips
- Short sleeves that do not reach your wrists
- Shoulder seams that cut into your shoulders
Taking Neck Size
Step 1: Place the measuring tape around your neck. Ensure it rests comfortably at the base of your neck, where your shirt collar would typically sit.
Step 2: Leave a small amount of space between the tape and your neck, approximately the width of two fingers. This will allow for a comfortable fit when wearing a coat.
Step 3: Advanced Technique: Measuring with a Shirt Collar Size
Alternatively, you can determine your neck size using the collar size of a dress shirt that fits you well. Turn the shirt inside out and measure the circumference of the collar from seam to seam. This measurement provides an approximate neck size.
| Collar Size | Neck Size |
|---|---|
| 14 | 15-15.5 inches |
| 15 | 16-16.5 inches |
| 16 | 17-17.5 inches |
| 17 | 18-18.5 inches |
| 18 | 19-19.5 inches |
Considering Body Type
Measuring Body Length
To determine your body length, measure from the base of your neck to the hemline where you want your coat to end. For a standard fit, the average length is between 30-36 inches. For shorter or taller individuals, adjust the measurement accordingly.
Determining Shoulder Width
Measure the distance between the outermost points of your shoulders, where the seams of a shoulder pad would typically fall. This measurement is crucial for ensuring that the shoulder area fits snugly without feeling too tight or loose.
Measuring Chest Circumference
Wrap a measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits. Ensure that the tape is parallel to the ground and not too tight or loose. This measurement determines the width of the chest area in the coat.
Considering Body Shape
Body shape plays a significant role in coat selection. Consider the following factors:
Referencing Breed Standards
1. Determine Your Dog’s Breed
The first step to measuring your dog’s coat size is to identify its breed. This is crucial because different breeds have specific coat requirements and measurements.
2. Access Breed Standards
Once you have your dog’s breed, you need to access the breed standards. These standards provide detailed descriptions of the ideal coat size and characteristics for each breed. You can find breed standards on official kennel club websites or in breed-specific books.
3. Measure Your Dog’s Length
To measure your dog’s length, stand it on a flat surface and measure from the point of its shoulder to the base of its tail. Keep the measuring tape parallel to the ground.
4. Measure Your Dog’s Height
Have your dog stand upright and measure from the top of its head to the ground at its shoulder. Ensure the measuring tape is perpendicular to the ground.
5. Measure Your Dog’s Chest Girth
Place the measuring tape around your dog’s chest, just behind its front legs. Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight. Record the measurement where the tape overlaps.
Here’s a table that summarizes the measurements you need to take:
| Measurement | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | From shoulder point to the base of the tail |
| Height | From the top of the head to the shoulder |
| Chest Girth | Around the chest, just behind the front legs |
6. Compare Your Measurements to the Breed Standards
Once you have all the necessary measurements, compare them to the breed standards. This will give you an idea of whether your dog’s coat is within the ideal range.
Using a Measuring Tape or String
1. Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits. Keep the tape measure parallel to the ground and not too tight.
2. Waist: Find the natural indentation of your waistline. Wrap the tape measure around your waist and keep it parallel to the ground.
3. Hips: Measure around the widest part of your hips, usually 8-10 inches below your waistline.
4. Arm Length: From the middle of your back, measure to the end of your wrist bone. If you’re measuring your dominant arm, bend your elbow at a 90-degree angle.
5. Shoulder Width: Measure across the top of your shoulders, from one shoulder seam to the other.
6. Back Length
Measuring with a String
If you don’t have a measuring tape, you can use a piece of string or twine. Follow the same steps as with a measuring tape, but instead of writing down the measurements, tie a knot at each measurement point on the string. Then, lay the string flat on a ruler or tape measure to determine the length.
Measuring from the Withers
Measuring from the withers is the most common method for determining coat size. The withers are the highest point of the shoulder blades, and they are located at the base of the neck. To measure from the withers, you will need a flexible measuring tape.
Start by placing the end of the measuring tape at the withers. Then, run the tape along the horse’s back, following the contour of the horse’s body. Stop the tape at the point where the horse’s back begins to slope down towards the tail.
The measurement from the withers to the point where the back begins to slope down is the horse’s “back length.” The back length is typically used to determine the size of a horse’s coat.
Here is a table of average back lengths for different horse breeds:
| Breed | Back Length (inches) |
|---|---|
| Thoroughbred | 58-62 |
| Quarter Horse | 56-60 |
| Arabian | 54-58 |
| Standardbred | 60-64 |
| Warmblood | 62-66 |
| Coldblood | 68-72 |
If you are unsure of your horse’s breed, you can use the back length to estimate the size of the coat you need.
Accounting for Neck Length
When measuring your neck length, it’s important to consider the following factors:
1. Collar Style
The style of the coat’s collar can affect the amount of neck coverage you need. For example, a high collar will provide more coverage than a low collar.
2. Neck Shape
Your neck shape can also influence the amount of neck coverage you need. If you have a long neck, you may need a longer coat to provide adequate coverage. Conversely, if you have a short neck, you may be able to get away with a shorter coat.
3. Desired Fit
Ultimately, the best way to determine how much neck coverage you need is to try on different coats and see what feels comfortable. If a coat feels too tight or too loose around your neck, it may not be the right size for you.
4. Measuring Your Neck Length
To measure your neck length, you will need a measuring tape. Start by placing the measuring tape at the nape of your neck. Then, bring the tape measure around the front of your neck and up to your chin. Finally, read the measurement from the measuring tape.
5. Neck Length Conversion Chart
Once you have measured your neck length, you can use the following chart to convert it to a coat size:
| Neck Length (inches) | Coat Size |
|---|---|
| 14-15 | Small |
| 15-16 | Medium |
| 16-17 | Large |
| 17-18 | Extra Large |
6. Tips
Here are a few tips for measuring your neck length:
* Stand up straight and look forward.
* Relax your neck and shoulders.
* Use a measuring tape that is not too tight or too loose.
* If you are measuring your neck length for a coat, be sure to wear the type of shirt or blouse that you plan to wear with the coat.
Identifying the Breed’s Average Size
Determining the average size of your dog’s breed is crucial for choosing the appropriate coat size. Reputable breed clubs and kennel organizations often provide detailed breed standards that include weight and height ranges for different ages and genders. For instance, the American Kennel Club (AKC) offers breed standards for over 200 recognized breeds on its website.
Another helpful resource is online breed databases. Websites like DogTime and The Dog People compile breed information, including average size estimates, from various sources. You can search for your dog’s breed to obtain a good approximation of its typical weight and height.
If you are unsure about your dog’s breed, consider consulting with your veterinarian or a professional dog groomer. They can provide valuable insights based on their experience with different breeds.
Step 9: Measuring Your Dog’s Chest and Neck
To determine the chest and neck measurements, follow these steps:
| Measurement | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Chest | Should be 2-4 inches larger than the neck |
| Neck | Should be able to accommodate a collar with 1-2 inches of extra space |
Once you have taken all the necessary measurements, you can refer to the coat size chart provided by the manufacturer. If you are still unsure about which size to choose, it is always advisable to opt for a slightly larger coat that can be adjusted to fit.
Seeking Professional Guidance
If you are unsure about your coat size, it is always best to seek professional guidance. A tailor or garment specialist can take your measurements and recommend the best size for your body type. This is especially important if you are ordering a custom-made coat.
10. Sleeve Length
The sleeve length of a coat should end at the base of your thumb, with your arms relaxed at your sides. To measure your sleeve length, start at the center back of your neck, where the collar seam meets the shoulder seam. Measure down the outside of your arm, over your shoulder and elbow, to the desired length. Keep your arm slightly bent at the elbow.
Here is a table summarizing the typical coat sizes for different body types:
| Body Type | Coat Size |
|---|---|
| Petite | XS or S |
| Average | M or L |
| Plus Size | XL or XXL |
| Tall | LT or XLT |
How to Measure Coat Size
To ensure a perfect fit, it is crucial to accurately measure your body before purchasing a coat. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you determine the correct coat size:
People Also Ask
How should a coat fit?
A well-fitting coat should allow for comfortable movement while providing adequate coverage. There should be enough room to wear a layer of clothing underneath without feeling restricted, but it should not be overly loose.
What is the difference between a tailored and a regular fit coat?
A tailored fit coat is designed to fit close to the body, accentuating your shape. It typically has narrower shoulders, a higher armhole, and a fitted waist. A regular fit coat, on the other hand, is less form-fitting and provides more ease of movement.
