The guide

How to measure for a habesha kemis

Six measurements, in this order. Each one shows its Tigrinya (ትግርኛ) name next to the English.

Before you start

Use a soft sewing tape measure, not a metal one.
Measure over light, thin clothing or underwear, not over a sweater.
Ask a friend or family member. It's much more accurate than measuring yourself.
Keep the tape snug but not tight, and level with the floor. Breathe normally.
Add no ease. Write down your real body measurements. The maker adds room for comfort.
For full length, wear the heels or shoes you'll wear at the event.
Measure twice. If the two numbers differ, measure a third time.

Step 1 of 6

Shoulder width / መንኮብ

Stand straight, arms relaxed. Measure across your back from the outer edge of one shoulder bone to the outer edge of the other.

Step 2 of 6

Sleeve length / ኢድ

Arm relaxed by your side. Start at the outer edge of the shoulder and measure down the outside of the arm to the wrist bone (or where you want the sleeve to end).

Step 3 of 6

Bust (chest) / ኣፍ ልቢ

Stand straight over a thin layer. Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, level all the way round under the arms. Snug, not tight.

Step 4 of 6

Full length (shoulder to floor) / ቁመት

Stand straight, feet together, in the shoes you will wear. Start at the top of the shoulder next to the neck and measure straight down the front to the floor.

Step 5 of 6

Waist / መዓንጣ

Stand straight and breathe normally. Wrap the tape around your natural waist, the narrowest part just above the belly button, keeping it level.

Step 6 of 6

Shoulder to navel (stomach) / ሰደርያ

Stand straight. Start at the top of the shoulder next to the neck and measure straight down the front, over the bust, to your navel (belly button).

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