Free tool · For NRI brides
Twelve measurements, taken once, properly. Designed for brides ordering bespoke from outside Delhi. Read the guide on this page; download the printable PDF to fill in by hand.
Before you start
01
Standing relaxed, wrap tape over the fullest part of the bust, parallel to the floor. Take a normal breath — not held in, not pushed out.
Tip — Wear the bra you intend to wear with the blouse. A different bra changes this by up to 2cm.
02
Tape directly under the bust, snug against the ribcage. Tape stays parallel to the floor.
Tip — This is what the blouse band is cut on, not the bust line.
03
Bend sideways — the crease that forms is your natural waist. Wrap tape there, snug but not pressed in.
Tip — This is higher than where most jeans sit. Do not use jeans-waist by mistake.
04
Stand with feet together. Wrap tape around the fullest part of the hips, usually 18–22cm below the natural waist.
Tip — Look in a mirror from the side — tape must be level all the way around.
05
Where you want the ghagra to sit. Most brides go 2–3cm below the natural waist for comfort with kalire.
Tip — Mark the spot with a thin ribbon before measuring.
06
From the lehenga-waist point straight down to the floor, in the shoes you will wear (with the heel height final).
Tip — Heel height is locked here. Changing shoes later means re-hemming.
07
Across the back, from one shoulder bone to the other.
Tip — Have someone help — self-measuring this is unreliable.
08
From the top of the shoulder, straight down to the bust point (nipple line).
Tip — Both sides — they are rarely identical.
09
From the hollow of the throat down to where you want the blouse neckline to end.
Tip — Try a printed paper template against your collarbone first.
10
From the prominent bone at the base of the neck (C7 vertebra) down to where you want the back neckline to end.
Tip — Common bridal depths: 8" for full back, 14" for moderately open.
11
From the shoulder point down the outside of the relaxed arm to where you want the sleeve to end.
Tip — Elbow length, three-quarter, full — measure with the arm slightly bent.
12
Around the fullest part of the bicep, and around the wrist bone.
Tip — Sleeves get tight at fittings if these are guessed.