Buying clothes online can feel like a gamble, especially when you're unsure about sizing. At House of Zavi, we offer a detailed size chart and a wide size range from XS to 3XL, but we still get questions like:
“How do I know which size will actually fit me?”
“Should I size up for comfort?”
“I don’t know how to measure myself. Can you help?”
So here it is - your no-fuss, beginner-friendly guide to taking accurate body measurements at home, without any fancy tools or tailor skills. Just a measuring tape, a mirror and 5 minutes of your time.
Why This Matters
We’re a made-to-order brand, which means each piece is made especially for you. So choosing the right size from the start saves you from returns, alterations and discomfort. Let’s get it right the first time!
What You’ll Need:
-
A soft measuring tape (the kind tailors use - easily available online or in stationery shops)
-
A mirror
-
A notepad or your phone to note the numbers
-
Optional: A friend for extra accuracy
How to Take Your Measurements - Step by Step
Pro Tip: Always measure over well-fitted clothing or undergarments and keep the tape snug but not tight.
1. Chest / Bust
Where to measure: Around the fullest part of your bust/chest.
How:
-
Wrap the tape around your back and bring it to the front.
-
Make sure it’s straight and not sagging at the back.
-
Don’t puff out your chest or hold your breath — stay relaxed.
📍Used for: Tops, shirts, kaftans, dresses
📏 Refer to: “Chest” column in our size chart
2. Shoulders
Where to measure: From the edge of one shoulder to the other, straight across your back.
How:
-
Stand straight and relaxed.
-
Place the tape flat across your upper back, from one shoulder bone to the other.
📍Used for: Fit across tops, shirts and dresses
📏 Refer to: “Shoulders” row in our size chart
3. Waist
Where to measure: The narrowest part of your torso, usually 1 inch above your belly button.
How:
-
Don’t suck in — breathe normally.
-
If you bend to the side, the crease is your natural waist.
📍Used for: Bottoms, co-ords, dresses
📏 Refer to: “Waist” column in our bottomwear chart
4. Hips
Where to measure: Around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
How:
-
Stand with feet together.
-
Wrap the tape around the widest point of your lower body.
📍Used for: Pants, skirts, co-ord bottoms
📏 Refer to: “Hips” row in our chart
5. Thigh (optional, but helpful)
Where to measure: Around the widest part of one thigh.
How:
-
Measure mid-thigh while standing straight.
-
Avoid pulling the tape too tight.
📍Used for: Pants or fitted bottoms
📏 Refer to: “Thigh” section of bottomwear
6. Length (for tops and bottoms)
Where to measure: From shoulder (for tops) or waist (for bottoms) to where you want the garment to end.
How:
-
Use a well-fitted dress/top/pants you already own as a reference.
-
Or use the mirror and tape to estimate the ideal length for your height.
📍Used for: All styles - varies based on personal comfort
📏 Refer to: “Length” rows in the chart
Your Measurements vs. Our Size Chart
Now that you have your numbers, compare them with our House of Zavi Size Guide below:
📌 For Tops & Dresses
-
Match your chest and shoulder measurements
-
Length is mostly standard across sizes (as per our chart)
📌 For Shirts
-
Use chest + shoulder + length preferences
-
Our shirt lengths are thoughtfully designed to fit all body types
📌 For Bottoms
-
Waist and hips are key
-
Thigh measurements help if you prefer looser fits
-
Length is standard and designed to suit most heights
Note: Our sizing is true-to-measurement. So, if you’re between two sizes, we recommend sizing up for comfort.
Still Unsure? We’re Just a DM Away
We get it - no two bodies are the same. If you’re confused, just send us your measurements on Instagram or WhatsApp - we’ll help you pick the perfect size.
Because when your outfit fits well, you don’t just look good - you feel good.
Final Tip: Save Your Measurements
Keep your sizes saved in Notes. That way, shopping online - from us or any other thoughtful brand, becomes way easier.