This point of measure (POM) is called the Across Shoulder because it is the total width of your shoulders across the body.

As mentioned in the previous post, it’s critical to obtain the correct shoulder width if you want to achieve a well-fitted garment, reduce draglines, increase comfort, and improve arm lift.

Here’s how to do it:

Steps to Measure Across Shoulder Width

1. Prepare the Measuring Tape: If your measuring tape has a hole in the metal tip, loop about 3 yards/meters of ribbon through the hole. If it has no hole, make a small hole with scissors and loop the ribbon through with a needle.
2. Use a Mirror: The best is to have a mirror in front and back of you to see better.
3. Mark the Shoulder Tips: Mark your body for the shoulder tips. You could place a piece of tape or use small stickers if you don’t want to mark your skin.
4. Position the Measuring Tape: Place a piece of adhesive tape on the end of your measuring tape and adhere it to one side of your Low Point Shoulder (LPS) where you marked.
5. Wrap Around the Back: Wrap the measuring tape along your back shoulders until it comes to the other marked side.
6. Relax and Measure:
   • Breathe in and out.
   • Relax your shoulders and don’t move.
   • Look carefully in the mirror to ensure the tape is straight and aligned.
   • The hardest part is not moving while taking measurements.
   • This method works for self-measurement or when someone else measures you.
   • You can use the ribbon method for all measurements and leave it on as a designated measuring tape.
   • Always check: “Am I standing straight like a mannequin, with arms down, when reading my measurements?”

Using this method ensures accurate across shoulder measurements, which improves garment fit, reduces draglines, and allows better arm lift.

This information and more can be found in The Fitting Book. Order your book today through the link below.