👖A well-tailored suit trousers make all the difference!
Neither too tight, too loose, nor too long, well-fitted trousers are the key to both comfort and elegance. But finding the right size when shopping online can quickly become challenging.
Fortunately, with just a few simple measurements you can take at home, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and choose a pair of trousers that fits perfectly. You don't need to be a professional tailor, just a measuring tape, and we'll guide you through the process step by step.
Essential Measurements
1. Waist Width
The waist width is measured across the waistband of the trousers, laid flat, from one side to the other.
On vintage trousers, the waist is not designed to fit tightly. A bit of extra room is intentional and contributes to the overall comfort.
💡 Vintage Tip: Compare this measurement with a pair of trousers you already own and enjoy wearing comfortably. Vintage trousers may appear slightly wider when laid flat, but they are designed to drape naturally once worn.
2. Front Rise
The front rise is measured from the top of the waistband to the crotch seam on the front of the trousers.
This is a key measurement for vintage trousers, as it determines the waist height and the overall balance of the silhouette.
- A front rise of around 30 cm (12 in) or more is generally considered high-rise.
- High-rise trousers sit at or above the navel, create the illusion of longer legs, and provide excellent comfort when sitting.
- This is a defining feature of vintage trousers and classic tailored suits.
3. Leg Opening (Bottom)
The leg opening is the width of the trouser hem, measured flat across the bottom of the leg.
In vintage tailoring, the leg opening is generally wider than on modern trousers.
- It creates a fluid and elegant drape.
- It balances the silhouette, especially when paired with a high-rise waist and roomier thighs.
- A leg opening that is too narrow would disrupt the proportions and go against the classic vintage style.
4. Overall Length
The overall length is measured from the top of the waistband to the bottom hem of the trousers, along the outside of the leg.
Vintage trousers are often designed to be worn slightly longer, creating a subtle and elegant break over the shoes.
Good to know:
- If the trousers are too long, they can easily be shortened by a tailor.
- If they are slightly too short, there is often extra fabric hidden inside the hem, allowing them to be lengthened in many cases.
Final Tip
The best way to choose your size is to compare these measurements with those of a pair of trousers you already own and enjoy wearing with a relaxed fit.