Small details can make a big difference to the accuracy of your measurements. Keep these tips in mind to ensure the best possible fit:

• Keep the tape level: Make sure the measuring tape sits straight and even all the way around the body.
• Measure over thin layers: Wear a fitted dress shirt or light clothing to avoid adding bulk that can affect sizing.
• Stand naturally: Keep a relaxed posture without pulling in or tensing, so the suit fits comfortably when worn.
• Avoid pulling the tape tight: The tape should sit snugly against the body without digging in.
• Ask for help: A second person can help keep measurements straight and consistent.

Suit size charts help to link your measurements to standard jacket and trouser sizes. While sizing can vary slightly between brands and fits, using a suit measurement chart gives you a reliable starting point and helps narrow down the right size more confidently.

Once you’ve taken accurate measurements, compare them against the charts below to find the closest match. Then, you can fine-tune your choice based on fit preference and style.

Small measuring errors can make a big difference to how a suit fits. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your measurements are as accurate as possible.

• Measuring tape is too tight or too loose: Pulling the tape tight or letting it hang loose can lead to a suit that feels restrictive or looks oversized.
• Shoulders measured over shirt collars: Measuring over collars or bulky layers can throw off shoulder width and affect how the jacket sits.
• Not considering height: Ignoring height can result in jackets or trousers that are too long or too short, even if other measurements are correct.
• Standing unnaturally: Holding your breath or tensing can distort measurements and affect comfort once the suit is worn.

Yes. Myer’s in-store team can all assist with professional suit measurements and fit advice with all your favourite brands including Calvin Klein, Van Heusen, Cambridge, MJ Bale, M Ferrari, Dom Bagnato and Institchu.

Myer offers an in-store alterations service at Myer Melbourne City. Formal hire services with M Ferrari are also available at selected stores. Full details can be found on our Services page.

Yes, you can measure yourself for a suit at home using a soft tape measure. However, having a friend or family member help can improve accuracy. This is especially important for areas like the shoulders, jacket length and sleeve length, where keeping the tape level makes a noticeable difference.

The measuring tape should sit firmly against the body without compressing it. It should feel snug but comfortable, allowing for natural movement so your suit fits well once worn.

The chest measurement is taken around the fullest part of the chest, under the arms, and is used to determine overall jacket size. The overarm measurement is taken around the chest and shoulders with the arms relaxed at your sides, passing over the shoulder blades. It helps assess how the jacket fits across the upper body and allows for movement, especially through the shoulders and back.

Suit drop refers to the difference between the jacket size and the trouser waist size. For example, a 40-inch jacket paired with 32-inch trousers is known as an eight-inch drop. This measurement helps create a balanced fit between the upper and lower body.

Not always. Suit trousers are typically sized more precisely, based on waist and leg measurements, while jeans often use vanity sizing and stretch fabrics. This means your jeans size may feel more forgiving, whereas suit trousers rely on accurate measurements for a clean, tailored fit. It’s always best to measure rather than assume the sizes will match.

Most suits can be altered to a degree, but there are realistic limits. Trousers can usually be taken in or let out by a few centimetres at the waist and adjusted in length. Jackets allow for sleeve length changes and minor waist adjustments, but shoulder width and overall jacket length are difficult and costly to alter. For best results, start with a suit that fits well through the shoulders and chest.

If your chest and waist measurements don’t align with standard suit sets, look for suits sold as separates. This allows you to choose the correct jacket and trouser sizes independently for a more balanced fit. Tailoring can then be used to fine-tune details like waist, length or sleeve fit.

If you’re between suit sizes, it’s usually best to choose the larger size. A suit that’s slightly too big can be tailored for a precise fit, while a suit that’s too small offers very limited adjustment. From there, a tailor can refine areas like the waist, sleeves and trouser length to achieve a clean finish.