Getting a kurta stitched to your measurements sounds simple — but only if you measure correctly. A centimetre off at the chest, or a shirt length that's slightly too short, can turn a beautiful fabric into something you never reach for. This guide walks you through every measurement you need, step by step, so your Sachi Vera order fits you perfectly the first time.
What You'll Need
Before you start, grab:
- A soft measuring tape (the kind used for sewing — not a builder's tape measure)
- A friend to help, if possible (self-measuring is doable, but a second pair of hands makes it more accurate)
- A fitted top or bra to measure over — not a thick sweater
- A notepad or your phone to record the numbers
Measure in centimetres. All our stitching is done in centimetres.
The 5 Essential Measurements
1. Shirt Length
What it is: How long you want your kurta to be, measured from the top of your shoulder down to where you want it to end.
How to measure: Stand straight. Place the tape at the highest point of your shoulder (where the shoulder seam of a well-fitted top would sit) and run it straight down the front of your body to your desired hem length. Common lengths are:
- 36–38 inches (91–96 cm): mid-thigh, good for everyday wear
- 40–42 inches (101–106 cm): knee-length, more formal
- 44–46 inches (111–116 cm): below-knee, traditional/maxi style
Tip: Wear the shoes you'll usually wear with the kurta when deciding on length.
2. Chest / Bust
What it is: The fullest part of your chest, measured horizontally all the way around your body.
How to measure: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, keeping it parallel to the floor. Don't pull it tight — you want it snug but comfortable. Breathe normally and read the number.
Tip: We add standard ease (extra room for movement) automatically. Just give us your actual body measurement — don't add extra yourself.
3. Waist
What it is: The narrowest part of your torso, usually about 2–3 inches above your belly button.
How to measure: Find your natural waist by bending slightly to the side — the crease that forms is your natural waistline. Wrap the tape around this point, keeping it parallel to the floor. Don't suck in — measure your actual waist at rest.
Tip: This measurement matters most for fitted kurta styles and co-ords with a defined waist. For loose, relaxed silhouettes, it's less critical but still helps us get the shape right.
4. Hips / Seat
What it is: The fullest part of your hips and seat, measured all the way around.
How to measure: Stand with your feet together. Place the tape around the widest point of your hips — usually 7–9 inches below your natural waist. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and make sure it's not sitting in a dip or tilt.
Tip: This is the measurement most women underestimate. Sit down on a chair first — that's roughly how much space your hips need when seated. Make sure your measurement reflects that.
5. Trouser / Pant Length
What it is: The length of the shalwar, trouser, or wide-leg pant that comes with your kurta set.
How to measure: Stand straight with bare feet or with the shoes you usually wear. Measure from the top of your hip bone (where the waistband will sit) all the way down to the floor.
Tip: If you prefer your trousers to skim the floor rather than pool at the ankle, subtract 1–2 cm from this measurement.
Optional Measurements (for more precise fit)
These aren't always required, but if you have specific preferences or a non-standard fit, sharing these helps:
Shoulder width: Measure straight across the back from one shoulder tip to the other. This is most useful for structured tops and co-ords.
Sleeve length: From the shoulder tip down to where you want the sleeve to end — wrist for full sleeves, mid-forearm for 3/4 sleeves, just below the elbow for short-length.
Neckline depth: If you have a preference for how high or low your neckline sits, let us know.
How to Share Your Measurements with Sachi Vera
Once you've taken your measurements, you have two options:
Option 1 — WhatsApp: After placing your order, our team will message you on WhatsApp. Simply reply with your measurements in the format: Shirt Length / Chest / Waist / Hips / Trouser Length (all in cm).
Option 2 — Order Notes: At checkout, there's a notes field. You can enter your measurements there and we'll confirm via WhatsApp before we begin stitching.
If anything seems unclear or you'd like us to guide you through the measurement process on WhatsApp, we're always happy to help. Real support from real people — that's part of what we do.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Measuring over thick clothing. Always measure over your lightest layer — a fitted t-shirt or camisole at most.
Pulling the tape too tight. Your measurements should reflect your body comfortably, not squeezed. If you can barely fit two fingers under the tape, it's too tight.
Guessing your length. Shirt length especially — try on a kurta or dress you love and measure it. That gives you a much more reliable number than estimating.
Using inches when we need centimetres. All our stitching is done in centimetres. If your tape only has inches, multiply by 2.54.
Still Not Sure? We'll Help
If you're ordering your first made-to-order kurta and aren't confident about your measurements, don't worry. Drop us a message on WhatsApp before you order and we'll walk you through the process.
Every piece we stitch is made specifically for you. We want it to be perfect as much as you do.
Ready to order? Browse our latest collection and find your next favourite kurta.