Sizing - How we measure up
At Holmfirth Vintage, we measure the actual vintage garment with the item laid down flat and then estimate the 'best fit' closest modern UK Size equivalent. Please Note: This estimation of 'Best Fit' is not a guarantee that it is that size, it is a guide to help you find your closest modern day sizing equivalent.
We ask you to be aware of your actual measurements before you place an order, (see 'How You Measure Up' below) as we cannot accept responsibility for garments not fitting due to sizes not being double checked before purchase. Buyers accept full responsibility for the cost of returning a garment to HV. (see our returns policy page here)
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The standard measurements we provide in our listings are:
Bust / Chest - measured armpit to armpit on the garment and then doubled for the full body measurement, for example, if a garment measures 20" inches (50.8 cm) armpit to armpit laid flat - it is a 40" inch Bust/Chest (101.6 cm)
Waist: measured at the narrowest part of the garment where the natural waistline would be and then doubled for the full body measurement, for example 16" inches (40.6 cm) is a 32"inch waist (81.3 cm)
Hips: measured at the widest part of the garment where the hip bones would be and then doubled for the full body measurement, for example 21" inches (40.6 cm) is a 42 "inch hips (81.3 cm)
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Other measurement we provide, where applicable, are Inside Leg (inseam), Collar Size (for men's shirts), Sleeve Length and the 'Across Back' Measurements on visibly smaller items (shoulder seam to shoulder seam) - if you would like any additional measurements before you make your purchase, then please contact us directly at info@bondstreetvintage.com
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Please also be aware that 'ease' in the garment is required for movement and to prevent the item from being too tight. For example if a blouse measures 40" inch bust and you measure 40" inches too, the garment would be 'skin tight' and potentially restrict movement. The ideal size garment for a 40" bust would be 42" inches to allow room for movement and comfort.
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If you require any further assistance with any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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Sizing - your measurements
We recommend you grab a flexible tape measure and a pen and paper and make notes of your measurements before purchasing an item.
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Here's how to do it..
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Chest/bust: Take a flexible tape measure and wrap it around the widest part of your chest/bust. Usually just under the armpit.
Measure all the way around and make a note of the measurement in inches. You will need to add a minimum of 2" inches to your measurement, to make sure you have some room for movement. Example, if you measure 38" inch bust, the garment would have to measure 40" inches (minimum) on the bust to avoid being too tight on your body. You can go bigger, depending on how you prefer to wear your clothes.
Alternatively, find a garment you own which has your perfect fit. Lay it down flat and measure straight across - armpit to armpit. You will need to double this amount to get the full measurement - For example, armpit to armpit measures 18" inches flat across the front, double this to get 36" inches
If the garment you want to buy has the same measurements, it will fit you more or less the same way.
Waist: Take the tape measure and wrap it around your body at the narrowest part just under your ribs and just above your belly button - make sure the tape is tight but not digging into your body. Breath out, and take the measurement.
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Hips: Using the flexible tape measure, wrap it around the widest part of your hips.
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Sleeve Length: Measure in centimeters down your arm, from the top of your shoulder to your wrist. It is usually easier to measure a garment you own that fits you the best, by measuring from the shoulder seam to the cuff.
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If you require any further assistance with any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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