Pit to Pit
Measured straight across the chest from armpit to armpit.
VCC Fit Lab
How We Measure
Vintage sizing is inconsistent. Our measurements are not. Every listing includes measurements taken by hand from the exact item shown. Compare them with a similar garment you already own for the most reliable fit.
Exact item measured
Garment laid flat
Tag size recorded
Recommended fit provided
The key rule
Compare garments, not size labels.
Tag sizing can change dramatically by brand, country, decade, fabric, and cut. Our recommended fit is based on the actual garment measurements, not only the size printed on the original label.
Three quick steps
Measure something you already like.
- 1Choose a similar garment that fits the way you prefer.
- 2Lay it flat without stretching the fabric.
- 3Measure the same A, B, and C points shown below.
Blueprint guide
Choose a garment type
Vintage tees and long-sleeve shirts can fit differently depending on the brand, era, fabric, and cut. Compare these measurements with a similar shirt you already own.
Length
Measured from the highest point of the shoulder or collar to the bottom hem.
Sleeve
Measured from the shoulder seam to the end of the cuff. For a short sleeve, this ends at the sleeve opening.
Vintage sweatshirts, crewnecks, and hoodies can fit differently depending on the brand, era, fabric weight, and cut. Compare these flat measurements with a sweatshirt you already own.
Pit to Pit
Measured straight across the chest from armpit to armpit.
Length
Measured from the highest point of the shoulder or collar to the bottom hem.
Sleeve
Measured from the shoulder seam to the end of the cuff. For raglan sleeves, we may begin at the collar and identify that method in the listing.
Vintage jackets can fit differently depending on the brand, era, lining, and cut. Compare these measurements with a jacket that already fits comfortably, allowing room for any layers you plan to wear underneath.
Pit to Pit
Measured straight across the chest from armpit to armpit while the jacket is laid flat.
Length
Measured from the highest point of the shoulder or collar to the bottom hem.
Sleeve
Measured from the shoulder seam to the end of the cuff. When the construction has no standard shoulder seam, the listing can identify the alternate starting point.
Vintage bottoms often fit differently from modern tagged sizing. Compare these flat garment measurements with a pair you already own rather than relying on the tag size alone.
Width
Measured straight across the waistband or fullest part of the hip while laid flat. The listing label identifies the point measured.
Inseam
Measured from the crotch seam to the bottom of the leg.
Rise
Measured from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband when available.
Need another measurement?
Send us the product link or Stock number and tell us what you would like checked. A real person will help before you order.
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