Your Perfect Fit Starts Here
South Asian formalwear fits differently from high-street clothing. Bridal lehengas, shararas, and formal maxis are constructed with structured fabrics, intricate embroidery panels, and layered silhouettes that require precise measurements for a flawless finish. At Jabeenz, we have been crafting garments to perfection since 1975. Whether you choose a ready-to-wear piece with complimentary alterations or commission a fully bespoke outfit made to your exact measurements, every garment is tailored to fit you beautifully.
Use this guide to take accurate measurements at home, compare them against our size charts, and understand how different fabrics affect fit. If you are unsure at any point, our Manchester showroom team is always happy to help with a free measuring session.
How to Measure
For the best fit, we recommend taking your measurements with the help of a friend. Use a soft measuring tape and measure your body directly. Do not measure over shirts or heavy clothing. Wear lightweight clothing or the undergarments you plan to wear with your outfit.
Bust
With arms relaxed at your sides, measure around the fullest part of your bust, under your arms, keeping the tape parallel to the floor.
Shirt Waist
Bend to one side to find the natural crease of your waist. Measure at this point, keeping the tape parallel to the floor and comfortable around your waist.
Trousers Waist
Slightly below the shirt waist, measure at this point keeping the tape parallel to the floor and comfortable around your trousers waist.
Hips
Stand with heels together and measure around the fullest part of your hips, approximately 8 inches below your waist.
Shirt Length
Run the tape measure from the shoulder, over the fullest part of the bust, down to the required hemline point.
Sleeve Length
With your arm bent at 90 degrees and hand on hip, measure from the corner of the shoulder to the elbow, then down to the wrist.
Trousers Length
Measure a similar style trouser that fits you well, from the waistband to the hem.
Women’s Size Chart
| Size (UK) | Shoulders | Bust | Waist | Hip | Shirt Length | Sleeve Length |
|---|
| XS (6) | 13 | 34 | 28–30 | 34–36 | As per style | As per style |
| S (8–10) | 14 | 36–37 | 32–34 | 36–38 | As per style | As per style |
| M (10–12) | 15 | 38–40 | 32–34 | 38–40 | As per style | As per style |
| L (12–14) | 16 | 40–42 | 38–40 | 44–45 | As per style | As per style |
| XL (14–16) | 16.5 | 44–46 | 46–48 | As per style | As per style | As per style |
Girl’s Size Chart
| Size | Chest | Waist | Hip | Shirt Length | Trouser Length |
|---|
| 24 | 14 | 13 | 15 | As per style | As per style |
| 26 | 14.5 | 14 | 15.5 | As per style | As per style |
| 28 | 15 | 14 | 16 | As per style | As per style |
| 30 | 15.5 | 15 | 16.5 | As per style | As per style |
| 32 | 16 | 15 | 17 | As per style | As per style |
| 34 | 16.5 | 16 | 17.5 | As per style | As per style |
| 36 | 17 | 16 | 18 | As per style | As per style |
| 38 | 17.5 | 17 | 18.5 | As per style | As per style |
| 40 | 18 | 17 | 19 | As per style | As per style |
Important Notes
- All measurements are in inches
- Some outfit sizes may vary due to the fabric design and material
- This size chart is provided as a guide only — for the most accurate fit, we recommend a consultation
- Shirt and sleeve lengths vary by design and can be customised during your bespoke consultation
Fabric and Fit Guide
The same UK size can fit very differently depending on the fabric. Understanding how each material behaves will help you choose the right size and set realistic expectations for drape and movement.
- Chiffon and Georgette are lightweight and fluid. They drape softly over the body and offer a forgiving, relaxed fit. Ideal for layered maxis and dupattas.
- Raw Silk and Jamawar are structured and hold their shape. They create a more defined silhouette but have minimal stretch. Go by your exact measurements for these fabrics.
- Velvet is heavier and clings to the body. It has slight natural stretch but can feel snug. If you are between sizes, we recommend sizing up in velvet.
- Organza and Net are sheer and crisp. They are often used for overlays and add volume without weight. Fit depends on the lining beneath.
- Cotton and Lawn are breathable with moderate structure. These fabrics soften with wear and tend to relax slightly over time.
- Tissue and Lamour have a metallic sheen with a firm hand. They do not stretch, so precision in measurements is essential for a smooth finish.
Every Jabeenz garment is constructed with care for the specific fabric. Our tailoring team adjusts seam allowances, lining weight, and construction technique based on the chosen material to ensure the best possible fit.
Bespoke and Custom Sizing
At Jabeenz, we do not believe in one-size-fits-all. As a manufacturer with over 50 years of tailoring expertise, we specialise in creating garments that fit your body perfectly. Every bespoke piece is cut and stitched to your exact measurements, not adapted from a standard pattern.
Our bespoke sizing service includes:
- Any size, any shape — we cater to all body types with no upper or lower size limit. Petite, tall, plus-size, or anything in between.
- Professional measuring session at our Manchester showroom, free of charge with any order.
- Multiple fittings during the construction process to ensure every panel sits exactly right.
- Alterations on ready-to-wear — purchased a ready-to-wear piece? We offer complimentary alterations to adjust the fit to your body.
- Remote ordering — cannot visit Manchester? Send your measurements via WhatsApp and our team will guide you through the process.
Our customers consistently praise the fit and finish of Jabeenz garments. With a 4.9-star rating on Google Reviews, our attention to tailoring detail is one of the things our clients value most.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I am between two sizes?
We always recommend choosing the larger size. It is far easier to take a garment in than to let it out, especially with heavily embroidered pieces. Alternatively, opt for our bespoke service and we will make it to your exact measurements.
Can you alter a ready-to-wear piece?
Yes. All ready-to-wear pieces purchased from Jabeenz come with complimentary basic alterations. This includes adjustments to length, waist, and sleeves. More complex structural changes can be discussed with our tailoring team during your fitting.
How do I measure myself accurately at home?
Use a soft, flexible measuring tape and ask a friend or family member to help. Stand naturally with your arms relaxed at your sides. Measure directly against your body over lightweight clothing. Take each measurement twice to confirm accuracy, and note them down in inches.
Do you cater to plus sizes?
Absolutely. As manufacturers, we can create any size without limitation. There is no additional charge for extended sizing. Every customer deserves a garment that fits beautifully, regardless of size.
What if my measurements change before my event?
This is very common, especially for brides ordering months in advance. We schedule a final fitting close to your event date to make any necessary adjustments. For bespoke orders, we build in seam allowances that allow for minor alterations at the last stage.
Can I send my measurements via WhatsApp?
Yes. Many of our customers, particularly those outside Manchester, send their measurements through WhatsApp. Our team will review them and advise if anything needs to be remeasured. For bridal orders, we may also request a short video call to confirm fit preferences.
How is South Asian sizing different from UK high-street sizing?
South Asian formalwear uses more structured construction, heavier embroidery, and layered fabrics. A UK size 12 in a high-street dress may not translate directly to a size 12 in a bridal lehenga. Always go by your actual body measurements rather than your usual dress size when ordering formalwear.
Do sleeve and shirt lengths vary by design?
Yes. Sleeve length depends on the style of the outfit. A full-length sleeve, three-quarter sleeve, and cap sleeve all have different measurements. Shirt length varies similarly based on the garment type, whether it is a short kurti, a mid-length shirt, or a full-length maxi. In the size chart above, these are marked as "as per style" because they are adjusted during your consultation.
How long does a bespoke order take?
Most bespoke orders are completed within 6 to 10 weeks, depending on the complexity of the design and embroidery. For bridal orders with heavy hand-embroidery, we recommend allowing 10 to 14 weeks. Rush orders may be possible depending on our current workload.
What should I wear to a measuring appointment?
Wear form-fitting clothing or the undergarments you plan to wear with your outfit. Avoid bulky layers, padded bras, or shoes with heels unless you plan to wear heels with the finished garment. This ensures we capture your true measurements for the best fit.
Need Help with Sizing?
If you are unsure about your measurements or have any questions about fit, our team is ready to help. We offer free measuring sessions at our Manchester showroom, or you can reach out remotely for guidance.
Visit us: 934 Stockport Road, Levenshulme, Manchester M19 3AB
Call: 073 6180 5655 |
Email: sales@jabeenz.co.uk