This guide explains how to take your own measurements so that you can compare them with the measurements of an item. Sizes and fit differ between items, so measurements are given per item, in centimetres, on request: email us the item name and the size you are considering.
What you need
A soft tape measure and, if possible, someone to help. Measure over thin underwear or a close-fitting top, not over a jumper or a coat. Keep the tape level and flat against your body without pulling it tight.
How to measure yourself
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Bust. Put the tape around the fullest part of your bust, keeping it level across your back. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides and breathe normally.
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Underbust. Measure directly under your bust, where a bra band sits. This helps when you are choosing a fitted rib-knit.
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Waist. Measure around the narrowest part of your waist, usually just above the navel.
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Hips. Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, with your feet together.
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Inside leg. For leggings, measure from the top of your inner thigh straight down to your ankle bone.
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Sleeve. With your arm relaxed at your side, measure from the point where your shoulder meets your arm, down the outside of the arm, to your wrist bone.
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Length. Stand straight and measure from the highest point of your shoulder, next to the neckline, straight down to where you want the hem to sit. For a jumper or cardigan that is usually at the hip; for a jacket, on the hip or the upper thigh.
Comparing with clothes you already own
The most reliable check is a cardigan, jumper or pair of leggings that already fits you the way you like. Lay it flat, close any buttons or the zip, and measure it:
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Bust: straight across, from one armhole seam to the other.
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Waist: straight across, at the narrowest point of the garment.
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Hips: straight across, at the widest point below the waist.
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Sleeve: from the shoulder seam to the end of the cuff.
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Length: from the highest point of the shoulder, next to the neckline, down to the hem.
A measurement taken straight across a garment laid flat is half of its full circumference. When we send you an item's measurements, we say whether each one is a flat width or a full circumference.
Knitwear, rib-knit and leggings
Rib-knit and other stretch fabrics are usually measured flat and unstretched, so the garment can look smaller than the body measurement it fits. For a close fit, compare the flat measurement with a stretch garment you already wear. For a relaxed layer over a shirt, compare with something you already wear over the same layers.
Choosing between two sizes
If you plan to wear a cardigan or jacket over a thick jumper, compare its bust measurement with a piece you already wear over similar layers. If you are still unsure, email support@larkelle.com with the item name and your bust, waist, hip and length measurements. We reply within 1 business day, Monday to Friday.
If the size is not right
You can cancel within 14 days, starting on the day after you receive your order, and send the item back. Who pays the return postage and when you receive your refund are set out in our refund policy.
Measurements for this item are available on request. Contact us with the item name and the size you are considering.
