How to Measure for a Custom Jacket

Prepare for consistent measurements

Use a flexible tape, wear the layers expected under the jacket and stand naturally. Whenever possible, ask another person to measure. Keep the tape level and close to the body without compressing clothing or pulling it tight.

Core body measurements

Common starting points include chest, waist, hip, shoulder width, sleeve length, upper arm and back length. Height and usual ready-to-wear size provide useful context but do not replace the measured values. Some designs require additional neck, wrist or posture information.

Choose close, regular or relaxed fit

A close fit uses less ease and works best when the intended layers and movement needs are clear. A regular fit allows everyday movement and a light layer. A relaxed fit adds deliberate volume; it is not achieved by simply increasing every measurement equally.

A body measurement is not the same as the final jacket measurement. The maker adds ease according to leather thickness, lining, intended layers and desired silhouette. A close cafe racer and a relaxed shearling flight jacket should not use the same allowance.

Common measuring mistakes

Do not pull the tape tight, measure over bulky clothing that will not be worn with the jacket, lift the shoulders, bend the elbows unless instructed or copy the labelled size from another garment. Record each value once, repeat it for confirmation and label whether it is a body or garment measurement.

Review before production

LeeMade opens guided measurement submission after the production deposit. Values are checked for internal consistency, and images or remote video context may be requested when posture, shoulder balance or an unusual proportion needs clarification.