Size Guide
How to Measure Yourself
This guide walks you through measuring your body so you can compare to the garment measurements listed on each product page. Most archive pieces are one-of-one, so we publish hand-taken measurements on every listing — use those numbers, not the tag size, when picking what'll fit.
Tools you'll need
- A soft (cloth) measuring tape — the same one tailors use.
- A friend, or a mirror, for the trickier measurements.
- Form-fitting clothes (or just your underwear) so the tape sits flush.
Tops
- Chest: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, under your arms, keeping it level across your back.
- Shoulders: Measure across your back from the bony point of one shoulder to the other.
- Sleeve: From the top of your shoulder, down the outside of your arm to your wrist (keep your arm slightly bent).
- Torso length: From the top of your shoulder, straight down to where you'd like the hem to fall.
Bottoms
- Waist: Around your natural waist — the narrowest part, just above the belly button.
- Hips: Around the fullest part of your hips and seat, feet together.
- Inseam: Along the inside of your leg, from the crotch down to your ankle bone.
- Thigh: Around the fullest part of your thigh, just below where your leg meets your hip.
How to use these numbers
Open the product page for the piece you're eyeing and check the Measurements section — those are the garment's flat measurements, taken by hand in our studio. Compare to your body measurements and add room based on how you like things to fit (slim, true, oversized).
Vintage Sizing Note
Vintage sizing runs differently from modern sizing, and tag sizes are often unreliable. Always go by the garment measurements on the listing, not the tag.
DNA Originals
Our in-house pieces follow modern US sizing. Each listing still includes specific garment measurements for the cut.
Need Help?
Not sure about fit? Email us at hi@denimandarchives.com with the item you're interested in and your measurements. We're happy to help.