Basic Clothing Knowledge (Part 3) – Yunnan Garment Factory, Kunming Garment Factory, Fengming Apparel, Custom Workwear

Common Methods for Expressing Clothing Specifications :

When specifying the dimensions of finished garments, we typically select one or several of the most representative body measurements. These measurements are also referred to as the stated specifications. ;The commonly used methods are as follows:

1. Garment size notation: This method uses height, chest circumference, or hip circumference as the representative measurements to specify garment sizes, and it is the most widely adopted approach. Body height is denoted by the “size” number, while chest or hip circumference corresponds to the “fit” type; body types are further categorized and indicated by a code. For example, 160/84A (where “A” denotes the body type category).

Collar size system : Clothing sizes are typically indicated by the neck circumference. This method is commonly used for men’s shirts, e.g., 40 cm, 41 cm, and so on.

3. Bust measurement method: Clothing sizes are indicated by the bust measurement as the representative dimension. This method is suitable for close-fitting undergarments, sportswear, wool sweaters, and other knitted garments. For example: 90C, 100C, MM.

4. Code‑based sizing: Clothing sizes are categorized by size and denoted with codes, offering a relatively simple method of specifying garment dimensions. This approach is suitable for garments with less stringent overall fit requirements. Common notations include letters such as S, M, L, XL, or numerical designations like size 6, size 7, and so on.