Calculating Garment Ease

Ease is a crucial component of a garment’s fit and design, allowing for comfort and movement without relying on manmade stretch fabrics.

To figure out the right amount of ease, just find the difference between your own body measurements and those of the garment. If your waist measurement is 34 inches and the garment waist is 36 inches, there will be 2 inches of ease.

General guidelines are 2-2.5 inches (5-6 cm) ease at the bustline, 1-2 inches (2.5-5cm) at the waist, and at least 3 inches (7.5cm) at the hip.

You may prefer more or less ease according to personal taste.  Some people like their clothing to fit closer to the body, others need more room.

If you are unsure, it’s easy to figure out using an item of your own (non-stretch) clothing. Measure something that fits perfectly and subtract your measurements to find the comfort zone.