Accurate measurements are the difference between an outfit that fits like couture and one that disappoints. The good news: it's straightforward, and you only need a soft measuring tape and someone to help. Here's exactly how.

Before you start

• Use a soft tailoring tape, not a metal builder's tape.
• Wear light, fitted clothing (or measure over the underwear you'll wear with the outfit).
• Have a friend measure you — self-measuring distorts the numbers.
• Stand naturally, don't hold your breath, and keep the tape level and snug, not tight.
• Record in one unit (inches or cm) and note which.

The core measurements

1. Bust/chest: around the fullest part of the bust, tape level across the back.
2. Under-bust: directly under the bust (useful for fitted cholis).
3. Waist: around the natural waistline (the narrowest point, roughly level with the navel).
4. Hips: around the fullest part of the hips and seat.
5. Shoulder: from the edge of one shoulder seam across the back to the other.
6. Sleeve length: from the shoulder edge down to where you want the sleeve to end (and bicep/arm-round if sleeves are fitted).
7. Shirt/kameez length: from the shoulder/neck point straight down to where you want the hem.
8. Full length (lehenga/trousers): from the waist to the floor for a lehenga, gharara or sharara — note your heel height.

Extra measurements worth taking

• Neck depth (front and back) if you have a neckline preference.
• Armhole for fitted cholis.
• Bicep and wrist for fitted sleeves.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Measuring too tight — you want the body measurement, not a squeezed one; ease is added by the maker.
• Mixing units — pick inches or cm and stick to it.
• Forgetting heel height on lengths — it changes the hem dramatically.
• Guessing — if unsure, send a photo of how you're measuring and ask.

Why the alteration margin matters

Even perfect measurements benefit from a buffer. AÏNN London outfits are made with a 3–5 inch alteration margin in key seams, so a local tailor can fine-tune the fit after delivery — invaluable if your measurements change slightly before the event or you simply want it nipped to perfection. It's the safety net that makes ordering made-to-measure online genuinely reliable.

If you'd rather not measure alone, our team offers a video consultation to guide you through it and confirm everything before your outfit is made. Many customers say this is exactly what gave them the confidence to order.

See our size chart, browse bridal wear, or read how to order a custom outfit online.

Frequently asked questions

How do I measure myself for a Pakistani outfit?

Use a soft tape and a friend to help. Take your bust/chest, waist, hips, shoulder, sleeve length, kameez length and full length, measuring over light clothing with the tape level and snug but not tight.

What measurements do I need for a lehenga?

Bust/chest, under-bust, waist, hips, shoulder and sleeve for the choli, plus the full waist-to-floor length (noting your heel height) for the skirt.

Should I measure tightly?

No. Take your true body measurement with the tape snug but not squeezing — the maker adds the ease. Measuring tightly leads to an outfit that's too small.

What if my measurements aren't perfect?

AÏNN London builds a 3–5 inch alteration margin into key seams, so a local tailor can perfect the fit after delivery. A video consultation is also available to guide you through measuring.

AÏNN London makes every outfit to your measurements with a 3–5 inch alteration margin, a video of your finished outfit before dispatch, and an optional video consultation to help you measure — duties included and free delivery over £500. Book a fitting chat.

Last updated: June 2026