How to Measure the Arm Length for a Lady's Jacket

Ordering a jacket that fits takes some know-how.

Mail order catalogs and websites can be a great way to buy clothes, including a jacket for a lady. The challenge is ordering a jacket that fits. Often the problem is the sleeves on the jacket are too long or too short for your arms. A savvy shopper needs to be aware of how arms are measured and make sure she is providing the right kinds of numbers to get the right jacket.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Another person

Instructions

Selecting the Appropriate Measuring Method

1. Obtain the sizing charts of the manufacturer or the mail order or online shopping company. These may be found in the company's catalog or on its website. If needed, contact customer service by telephone or email to get the information or to ask what method they use for measuring arms.

2. Determine the arm length on the chart the ladies size M.

3. Choose the correct measuring method. If size M on the chart is about 31 to 34 inches, then use the traditional method for measuring arm length, measuring from the back of the neck. If the arm length for size M is much shorter, perhaps 22-25 inches, then use the alternate method, measuring from the end of the shoulder.

Traditional Method: Measuring From the Back of the Neck

1. Stand with your arms hanging down naturally at your sides.

2. Place the Zero end of the measuring tape at the center of the back of your neck and hold it there. You will need a helper to do this for you.

3. Extend the measuring tape across the top of the shoulder. Hold the tape down where the shoulder meets the arm. You may let go of the tape at the neck.

4. Continue extending the measuring tape down to the elbow. Hold it down at the elbow. You may let go of the tape at the shoulder.

5. Continue extending the tape to the end of the wrist and note the length.

Alternate Method: Measuring From the End of the Shoulder

1. Stand with your arms hanging down naturally at your sides.

2. Place the Zero end of the measuring tape at end of your shoulder, where you imagine the shoulder seem of the jacket will fall. You will need a helper to do this for you.

3. Extend the measuring tape down to the elbow. Hold it down at the elbow.

4. Continue extending the tape to the end of the wrist and note the length.

References

• She Rides: Sizing Charts
• CorvetteCentral.com: Women's Jacket Sizing Sizing Chart