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Abstract

An anthropometric study was performed on 103 women 19 to 50 years of age. Each subject measured 19 dimensions of her own body and then performed similar measurements on a random partner using a conventional tape measure with 1/16 inch (1.6-mm) precision. The experimenter measured all subjects using a laboratory-grade anthropometer and tape measure with 1.0-mm precision as a standard. Subjects' measurements of different body dimensions had significantly different average errors, ranging from -4.54 cm to +6.15 cm. Hip circumference, which is often utilized as a key dimension for garment sizing, was significantly undermeasured (M = -4.54 cm). Measurements having the least error included waist, bust, and neck circumferences and shoulder and waist heights. Subjects' measurements of their own bodies had greater absolute error (M = 4.10 cm, SD = 6.06 cm) than those of their partners (M == 3.34 cm, SD = 4.86 cm). Although subjects used a tape measure having 1.6-mm precision, 97% reported measurements using only 1/4-inch (6.4-mm) precision or less. Subjects overestimated their own stature by an average error of 0.68 cm (SD = 4.02 cm) and an absolute error of 2.26 cm (SD = 3.39 cm).

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The Accuracy of Consumer-Made Body Measurements for Women's Mail-Order Clothing

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