To measure girth, particularly in the context of dance and costume fitting, you take a full vertical measurement around the body. This is often crucial for ensuring proper fit for items like leotards, unitards, and dancewear.
What is Girth Measurement?
In the apparel and costume industry, especially for athletic wear and dance costumes, "girth" refers to a specific full-body measurement that extends from the shoulder, through the crotch, and back up to the starting shoulder point. While the term "back girth" might suggest a horizontal measurement across the back, the common and critical "girth" measurement for dance teachers and costume makers is this comprehensive vertical loop.
This measurement helps ensure that garments that enclose the entire torso, like leotards or unitards, have enough length to fit comfortably without pulling or gapping.
How to Measure Girth
The process for measuring girth is straightforward and requires a flexible tape measure.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
To accurately measure girth:
- Start Point: Place the end of your measuring tape at the center of the shoulder. This is typically where the neck meets the shoulder line.
- Down Through the Crotch: Bring the tape measure down through the crotch area. Ensure the tape follows the natural curve of the body without being too tight or too loose.
- Back Up: Continue bringing the tape measure back up again, over the fullest part of the back, and meet the starting point at the center of the shoulder.
- Ensure Widest Part Coverage: Make sure the tape is going over the widest part of the body in both the front (typically the bust/chest) and the back, to account for full body length and circumference.
The reading where the tape measure meets its starting point is the girth measurement.
Tips for Accurate Girth Measurement:
- Comfort is Key: Have the individual stand naturally, relaxed, and with good posture.
- Snug but Not Tight: The tape measure should be snug against the body but not so tight that it indents the skin. It should also not be loose enough to sag.
- Undergarments: Ideally, measurements should be taken over light clothing or undergarments similar to what will be worn with the final garment.
- Double-Check: Always measure twice to ensure accuracy.
This girth measurement is vital for creating comfortable and well-fitting dancewear and costumes, ensuring freedom of movement and a professional appearance.
