How to Measure for a Made-to-Order Leather Jacket

Choosing a letter size is only the starting point when buying a leather jacket. Size labels vary between makers, and the cut, lining and intended fit can all affect how a jacket feels. If you are considering a made-to-order piece, clear measurements give the maker useful information to review with you before production.

This guide explains how to measure your body and a jacket you already own, how to record the numbers clearly, and what to ask before confirming a made-to-order leather jacket.

Before you start

• Use a soft tailor’s measuring tape.
• Wear a light shirt or the layer you normally expect to wear under the jacket.
• Stand naturally and keep the tape level. It should be snug, not tight.
• Ask another person to help with shoulder and back measurements where possible.
• Take each measurement twice and record whether you used centimetres or inches.

Five useful body measurements

Unless a maker provides a different measurement sheet, these are useful starting points for a jacket enquiry. They are body measurements, not the finished measurements of the jacket.

1. Chest

Pass the tape around the fullest part of your chest, under your arms and across your shoulder blades. Keep it horizontal and breathe normally. Do not pull the tape tight or add extra room yourself.

2. Shoulder width

Measure across your upper back from one shoulder point to the other. Keep your shoulders relaxed. If you are unsure where the shoulder points are, ask someone to help rather than estimating.

3. Sleeve length

With your arm relaxed and slightly bent, measure from the shoulder point down the outside of your arm to the wrist bone. Tell the maker where you started and finished, because sleeve-measuring methods can differ between brands.

4. Waist

Measure around your natural waist without holding your stomach in. This can be especially useful when discussing a shaped or fitted jacket. For a straighter cut, the maker may place less emphasis on this measurement.

5. Preferred jacket length

Measure from the base of the back of your neck down to the point where you would like the jacket hem to sit. This records your preferred length; it is not a substitute for the maker’s finished garment measurement. For longer coats or particular silhouettes, ask whether additional measurements are needed.

How to measure a jacket that already fits you

A jacket you own and like can be a useful reference. Choose one with a similar style and weight to the piece you are considering. Close the fastenings, lay it flat on a level surface and smooth it without stretching the material.

• Chest: Measure straight across just below the armholes. This is usually a half-width measurement; double it only when you need the garment’s full circumference.
• Shoulders: Measure from one shoulder seam to the other, if the jacket has clear seams.
• Sleeve: Measure from the shoulder seam to the end of the cuff.
• Back length: Measure from the collar seam at the back to the bottom hem.

Keep body measurements and garment measurements separate. For example, a measurement taken straight across a jacket is not the same as measuring around your body. Do not compare the two as if they were identical.

Common measuring mistakes to avoid

• Choosing only by S, M, L or XL without checking the maker’s sizing information.
• Pulling the tape too tightly or letting it hang loose.
• Measuring over a bulky coat or jumper when you intend to wear a lighter layer.
• Mixing body measurements with measurements taken from a jacket laid flat.
• Sending numbers without saying whether they are in centimetres or inches.
• Adding your own allowance for ease before the maker has reviewed the measurements.

What to send with a made-to-order enquiry

When contacting a maker, include the product name or link, your measurements with the unit clearly stated, and the fit you prefer: close, regular or relaxed. If you have a jacket that fits well, include its measurements too and explain how you like it to fit. Mention the type of layer you expect to wear underneath.

Do not assume that a size M or a particular EU, UK or US size means exactly the same thing across every design. A fitted biker jacket, a relaxed bomber and a heavily lined winter jacket can require different fit discussions. Ask the maker to review the measurements for the specific garment before production is confirmed.

FIA Enterprises offers made-to-order outerwear and its product information explains that requested measurements and specifications are reviewed with the team. If you are considering a design, contact FIA Enterprises with the product you are interested in and your measurements. You can also browse the FIA collection before making an enquiry.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my usual clothing size?

Your usual size is a helpful starting point, but it is not a guarantee of the same fit across different brands or jacket styles. Check the product’s own size information and ask the maker to review your measurements.

Should I measure my body or a jacket I own?

If possible, provide both. Body measurements describe your proportions; a well-fitting jacket shows the garment dimensions and silhouette you prefer. Label each set clearly so they are not confused.

Should I add extra room for a sweater?

Do not add an allowance to the measurements unless the maker asks you to. Explain what you plan to wear underneath and whether you prefer a close or relaxed fit, then ask how that should be reflected in the final garment.

Are measurements enough to confirm the final fit?

Measurements help, but the design, pattern, material and lining also matter. The maker should review the information for the specific product and confirm any remaining details with you before production.