Takeaways:
- Be Prepared: Regularly update and store your measurements digitally.
- Accuracy is Key: Use proper tools like a soft tape measure.
- Industry Standards: Understand and convert between Metric and Imperial systems as needed.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
Imagine this scenario: you’ve just received exciting news—you landed the role you auditioned for months ago! But there’s a catch: the costume department needs your updated measurements by the end of the day. Suddenly, the joy of success is overshadowed by the realization that your last recorded measurements are outdated.
To avoid such last-minute scrambles, keeping your measurements up to date is essential. These details aren’t just numbers; they’re vital for costume designers to ensure you look and feel your best on set. Let’s dive into how to take your measurements accurately and store them efficiently.
Tools You’ll Need
- Soft Tape Measure: Easily available at most supermarkets or sewing stores.
- Hard Tape Measure: Ideal for measuring your height.
- Bathroom Scales: For an accurate weight measurement.
- Notes App or Digital Record: Store your measurements digitally for quick access.
How to Measure Yourself
1. Height and Weight
- Height: Stand against a wall and use a hard tape measure. For accuracy, ensure the tape doesn’t bend. Alternatively, ask someone to assist.
- Weight: Step onto bathroom scales without shoes or heavy clothing. For precise results, weigh yourself in the morning.
Pro Tip: Weight is less frequently requested but can be relevant for roles involving specific physical requirements like horse-riding.
2. Head, Neck, and Sleeve
- Head: Wrap a soft tape measure around your head, just above your eyebrows. Divide the measurement in centimeters by 2.54 for your universal hat size.
- Neck: Measure just below your Adam’s apple.
- Sleeve Length: Measure from the nape of your neck to your shoulder, then from your shoulder to your wrist. Add these numbers for your sleeve size.
3. Upper Body
- Chest: Measure around your chest, just under your arms. Avoid flexing for an accurate measurement.
- Bust: Lower the tape measure to align with your nipples.
- Underbust: Measure directly below your chest.
- Waist: Find the narrowest part of your torso, near your belly button.
- Hips: Wrap the tape around the widest part of your hips, ensuring it’s level.
4. Lower Body
- Inseam: Fold a pair of well-fitting pants in half. Measure from the crotch seam to the bottom of the leg.
- Shoe Size: Check the label inside your shoes for size and region. Shoe sizes differ between regions, so double-check if the casting form specifies a standard.
5. Clothing Sizes
- T-Shirt: Check the size on a well-fitting shirt (XS, S, M, etc.).
- Pants: Use the tag on a pair of pants that fit you perfectly.
- Cup Size: Refer to the tag on a well-fitting bra.
- Glove Size: Wrap the tape measure around your hand just below the knuckles.
Record and Maintain Your Measurements
To ensure your measurements are always accessible:
- Use a digital notes app to store them.
- Update them annually or more frequently if your body changes significantly.
- Avoid relying on paper records that can be easily misplaced.
Why This Matters for Your Career
Taking accurate body measurements is not about judgment or aesthetics. It’s a professional necessity for ensuring costume designers can create the best possible fit for your role. Feeling confident in your attire enhances your performance, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your craft.
By regularly updating and storing your measurements, you’re setting yourself up for success and showing casting directors and costume teams that you’re a prepared and reliable professional.
