Fit and measurement
The sizing guide.
The most useful detail is the fit.
A well-fitting garment is the difference between something you wear once and something you reach for again and again. Indian ethnic wear sizes can vary between makers. Your own measurements are a better starting point than a letter on a label.
Before you measure
Use a flexible fabric measuring tape, fitted clothing and a mirror. A second person can help with shoulder and length measurements. Keep the tape level for circumference measurements and close to the body without pulling tight. Measure twice and record the results in centimetres or inches consistently.
01 / Garment measurements
Kurta sets and Anarkalis
Shoulder
Measure across your back from one shoulder point to the other.
Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your chest, with the tape level.
Waist
Measure around your natural waist without pulling the tape tight.
Hip
Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
Length
Measure from the shoulder near the base of the neck to your preferred hem.
02 / Garment measurements
Lehengas
Blouse bust
Measure around the fullest part of the chest.
Underbust
Measure directly below the bust.
Shoulder
Measure from shoulder point to shoulder point across the back.
Blouse length
Measure from the shoulder to the desired blouse hem.
Skirt waist
Measure where you intend the waistband to sit.
Skirt length
Measure from the waistband position to your desired hem, wearing your intended shoes.
03 / Garment measurements
Saree blouses
Bust and underbust
Measure around the fullest part of the bust and directly below it.
Waist
Measure around your natural waist.
Shoulder
Measure across the back between shoulder points.
Armhole
Measure around the upper arm and shoulder opening comfortably.
Sleeve length
Measure from the shoulder point to your preferred sleeve end.
Blouse length
Measure from the shoulder to your preferred hem.
Reference / Standard sizes
Size conversion
An indicative body-measurement chart in inches. This is not a confirmed Begum's garment size chart. Check the measurements of the individual piece before choosing.
| Size | Bust | Waist | Hip | UK* | US* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 30–32 | 24–26 | 34–36 | 4–6 | 0–2 |
| S | 32–34 | 26–28 | 36–38 | 8–10 | 4–6 |
| M | 34–36 | 28–30 | 38–40 | 10–12 | 6–8 |
| L | 36–38 | 30–32 | 40–42 | 12–14 | 8–10 |
| XL | 38–40 | 32–34 | 42–44 | 14–16 | 10–12 |
| XXL | 40–42 | 34–36 | 44–46 | 16–18 | 12–14 |
| 3XL | 42–44 | 36–38 | 46–48 | 18–20 | 14–16 |
*UK and US equivalents are approximate. Fit and sizing vary between manufacturers, cuts and garments.
Fabric and silhouette
How fit changes
Cotton and linen: Consider ease and shrinkage; check care instructions and garment dimensions.
Silk, velvet and brocade: Often less forgiving in structured cuts. Allow comfortable movement.
Organza and georgette: Drape varies by construction and lining; check fitted areas carefully.
Kurta sets and Anarkalis: Prioritise shoulder and bust measurements.
Lehengas and saree blouses: Check bust, underbust and blouse dimensions; confirm waistband and skirt length for lehengas.
Sharara sets: Check hip fit and bottom length, especially with intended footwear.
A useful alternative
Measure a piece you already love.
Lay a well-fitting kurta or blouse flat. Measure the chest from underarm to underarm and double it, then measure the waist width, shoulder seam to shoulder seam, and length from shoulder to hem. These are garment measurements, not body measurements. Compare like with like, and allow for the ease you prefer.
Between sizes?
There is no universal conversion between Indian, UK and US sizing, or between different makers. Fabric structure, lining, cut and ease all affect fit. Check the specific garment's verified measurements before deciding. When unsure, share your measurements with us through an enquiry.
The chart above is general guidance only, not verified Begum's sizing. Custom stitching and alterations are subject to supplier confirmation and are not currently promised.