Expert Guide · Since 1967
How to Take Measurements for a Bharatanatyam Costume
A custom dance costume fits perfectly only if the measurements are accurate. Wrong measurements are the most common cause of return requests — and they add weeks to your timeline. This guide walks you through exactly how to measure, what to avoid, and what to send us.
How to Take Measurements for a Bharatanatyam Costume
Gather your tools
Use a soft tailor's tape measure (not a rigid metal one). Wear your regular inner-wear — not a sports bra or padded top, which add bulk. Have someone else measure you if possible — self-measurement is less accurate.
Measure bust
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of the chest, keeping it parallel to the floor. Don't pull tight — keep one finger's width of ease. Write down the measurement in centimetres.
Measure waist
Find your natural waist — the narrowest point of your torso, usually 2–3 cm above the navel. Don't suck in your stomach. Measure and note.
Measure hip
Stand with feet together. Measure around the fullest part of the hips and seat — usually 20–23 cm below the natural waist. Keep tape parallel to floor.
Measure height
Stand straight against a wall without footwear. Mark your height and measure from floor to mark. Height determines skirt length and overall costume proportion.
Measure shoulder width
Measure across the back from shoulder point to shoulder point — from where the shoulder meets the arm on both sides. This determines the blouse fit.
Note for children
If the performance is 6 or more months away, add 2–3 cm to bust and hip measurements as a growth allowance. State the child's current age with the measurements.
Common Measurement Mistakes
Measuring over bulky clothes (adds 2–5 cm). Pulling the tape too tight (gives a smaller reading). Measuring alone without checking in a mirror. Sending measurements in inches when cm is requested. Not stating whether measurements are 'with ease' or 'body measurement'. Always send body measurements (not 'what size I want') — our tailors add the correct ease for dance movement.
Special Cases
For arangetrams: include any weight or growth changes expected before the event. For jewellery (oddiyanam/waist belt): send waist + hip measurements. For silambu (ankle bells): send ankle circumference and foot size. For Mohiniattam: different drape — send height and hip measurements specifically.
How We Use Your Measurements
Our master tailors add standard ease (room for movement) based on the dance form. They account for the pleats, fan piece, and blouse armhole cut. A first-pass fitting is included for all local (Chennai) orders. For outstation / international orders, we request one photo in the costume for confirmation before final stitching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I send body measurements or the size I want the costume to be?
Always send body measurements (your actual body size). Our tailors add the correct ease for dance movement. Sending 'size I want' without body measurements leads to poorly fitting costumes.
What if I gain or lose weight before the performance?
Send your current measurements and note any expected changes. We can accommodate small adjustments (up to 2–3 cm) in the final stitching. For larger changes, contact us as early as possible — alterations are much easier than re-stitching.
Do I need measurements for jewellery?
For most jewellery (necklaces, earrings), measurements aren't needed. For oddiyanam (waist belt), send your waist and hip measurement so we can size the clasp correctly. For vanki (upper arm), send the upper arm circumference.
Can I use measurements from a regular tailor?
Yes, as long as they are body measurements (not garment measurements). Dance costumes require specific ease and cut — but standard body measurements work as the starting point.
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