Measuring & Fit Guide
We offer a large selection of designers and manufacturers that span the 20th and early 21st century. Sizing varies greatly, so we have outlined our measuring and size estimating process.
The best way to know if a vintage item will fit you is to take a garment that fits you well, similar to the one you are interested in purchasing, and measure it the way we measure ours.
We lay all garments flat and measure as follows*:
| DRESSES | PANTS | |
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BUST - under arm to under arm across the front and then double that measurement. |
Measure the WAISTBAND, widest part of the HIPS, widest part of the THIGH on one leg and width of the CUFF, then double those measurements |
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WAIST - find the smallest part of the garment if there isn't an obvious seam for the waist and measure across and then double that measurement. |
LENGTH - Measure from the top of the waistband to the bottom of the cuff along the side seam. | |
| HIPS - Find the largest part of the hip area and measure flat, then double that measurement. | RISE - Measure from the crotch to the top of the waistband. | |
| LENGTH - from the nape of the neck or the top of the shoulders, depending on the style of garment. We will measure to the waist when applicable, so that you can determine if it will fit your torso, and then a waist down measurement. | INSEAM - Measure from the crotch to the bottom of the cuff along the inside seam. | |
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SLEEVES - measure from the top of the shoulder seam to the end of the sleeve. When we think that the arm opening is particularly small, we will provide that measurement as well.** |
*Fabrics with stretch will have some give, we will try to mention the range of measurements that will fit comfortably.
**With dolman sleeves, the size is an estimation based on the waist as the body seamlessly joins the sleeve. 
Feel free to email us with specific questions about specific measurements that we may not have included that you need to know in order to feel confident about your purchase. If you have a particularly long torso, short legs, long arms, etc.. we can help you determine whether or not a garment will work for your body.
Description
Vintage Claire McCardell Townely dress from the 1940s. This dress came from one of the finest estates of vintage mid century designer clothing we've ever had the privilege of handling. Red striped cotton dress with double breasted button front bodice and tie at the neck. Deep side pockets, attached fabric belt and side metal zipper. Very collectible dress from legendary designer Claire McCardell.
If you aren't familiar with this designer, you should know that she is credited with creating some of the first sportswear lines for American Women. You can see her pieces at the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume collection. This dress is in such incredible condition that it adds to the value and makes it even more collectible. The owner had actually known Claire McCardell and had several of her pieces. Excellent condition!
| Bust | 36" |
| Waist | 26" |
| Hips | 44" |
| Length from nape of neck | 45" |
| Condition | Excellent |
Claire McCardell dress from 1956 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Claire McCardell on the cover of TIME magazine in 1955
In order to best determine fit, measure yourself or a garment of a smilar style that fits you well. Compare those measurements to those on the item description.
All of our pieces have been professionally cleaned and arrive ready to wear.
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Measurements, not size. View our Measuring Guide
Have Questions? Visit our FAQ or Contact us
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