Your Tango Clothes Can Fit 'Like a Glove' Too! - Measurement Guide

Introduction

Tango dance is an art of movement, connection, and expression. Just as important as the steps and music is the attire, which must offer both freedom of movement and elegance. Buying tango clothes online can be a challenge, as sizes often vary between brands and patterns. This article will guide you through the process of correctly measuring your body, helping you interpret size charts and choose the perfect clothing that will highlight your grace and style on the dance floor.

But why is precise body measurement crucial? In tango, every movement counts, and ill-fitting attire can restrict your freedom or cause discomfort. Choosing the right size clothes is vital for:

• Comfort: Long hours of dancing require clothing that doesn't pinch, slip, and allows your skin to breathe.
• Performance: Perfectly fitting clothes offer full freedom for complex movements, from giros to boleos and ganchos.
• Aesthetics: A well-chosen outfit enhances your silhouette, contributing to your elegance and presence on the dance floor.
• Durability: Properly fitting clothes are less prone to strain and premature wear.

Table of Contents

1. Why Accurate Measurements Matter for Tango Clothes
2. Necessary Tools for Measurement
3. How to Measure Your Body Correctly – General Measurements
4. Specific Measurements for Men (Pants, Shirts)
5. Specific Measurements for Women (Blouses, Skirts, Dresses, Pants)
6. Anatomical Differences and the Importance of Adaptation
7. Additional Tips for Choosing the Perfect Size

1. Why Accurate Measurements Matter for Tango Clothes

Every body is unique, and tango clothing cuts are designed to flatter the silhouette and facilitate movement. Accurate measurements help you to:

• Avoid errors: Reduce the risk of buying the wrong sizes, saving you time and effort.
• Maximize comfort: Ensure that your clothing won't bother or restrict you during the dance.
• Achieve a flawless look: Clothes that fit perfectly contribute to an elegant and confident presence.

2. Necessary Tools for Measurement

To get precise measurements, you will need:

• A flexible tailor's tape measure.
• Someone to help you (recommended for accuracy).
• A mirror (to check your posture).
• A notebook and pen to jot down your measurements.
• Loose clothing or underwear, to avoid adding unnecessary bulk.

3. How to Measure Your Body Correctly – General Measurements

These measurements are essential and apply to both men and women:

1. Bust/Chest Circumference: Measure around the fullest part of your bust (for women) or chest (for men), under your arms, ensuring the tape measure is horizontal.
2. Waist Circumference: Identify the narrowest part of your torso, usually at your belly button or slightly above. Measure without pulling the tape tight.
3. Hip Circumference: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and glutes, making sure your feet are together.
4. Shoulder to Waist Length: Measure from the base of your neck (the highest point of your shoulder where it meets your neck) down to your natural waistline.
5. Arm Length: Measure from the top of your shoulder, over your bent elbow, down to your wrist.

4. Specific Measurements for Men (Pants, Shirts)

Male anatomy requires special attention to shoulder width, neck circumference, and leg length for impeccable tango clothing cuts.

For Shirts:

1. Neck Circumference: Measure around the base of your neck, leaving a one-finger gap for comfort.
2. Shoulder Width: Measure from the tip of one shoulder bone to the other, across your back.
3. Sleeve Circumference (Biceps): Measure around the thickest part of your upper arm.

For Pants:

1. Inseam Length (Inner Leg Seam): Measure from your crotch down to your ankle (or desired pant length), along the inside of your leg.
2. Thigh Circumference: Measure around the fullest part of your thigh.

5. Specific Measurements for Women (Blouses, Skirts, Dresses, Pants)

The female body, with its distinct curves, requires precise measurements to ensure a perfect fit and freedom of movement specific to tango dancing.

For Blouses and Dresses:

1. Bust Circumference: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, passing the tape measure over the nipples and ensuring it is horizontal across your back.
2. Under Bust Circumference: Measure directly below your breasts, ensuring the tape measure is horizontal.
3. Torso Length (shoulder to hip): Measure from the base of your neck (at the shoulder) over your bust, down to your hip level.
4. Back Length (base of neck to waist): Measure on your back, from the base of your neck down to your natural waistline.

For Skirts and Dresses:

1. Skirt/Dress Length: Measure from your waist (or shoulders for dresses) down to the desired length (above the knee, below the knee, full length).

For Pants (Women):

1. Inseam Length: Similar to men's, from the crotch down to the ankle.
2. Thigh Circumference: Similar to men's, around the fullest part of your thigh.

6. Anatomical Differences and the Importance of Adaptation

It's essential to understand that anatomical differences between men and women significantly influence the cut and fit of clothes. Men's designs focus on straighter lines, shoulder width, and comfort in the chest and hip areas for expansive leg movements. For women, cuts emphasize the bust, waist, and hips, often with elastic materials that allow maximum flexibility in skirts and dresses.

"A good tailor measures not just the body, but the dream you wear."

— Charles Jourdan, renowned shoe and accessory designer, but whose philosophy also applies to high-class tailoring.

These differences necessitate separate approaches in measurement and size selection, ensuring that each garment complements your silhouette and movements.

7. Additional Tips for Choosing the Perfect Size

• Consult Each Brand's Size Chart: Every manufacturer has its own standards. Compare your measurements with the specific chart of the brand you intend to purchase from.
• Material Matters: Elastic materials (lycra, jersey) offer greater flexibility and adapt more easily, while rigid ones (certain types of cotton, wool) require more precise measurements.
• Tango Style: Think about your dance style. Do you need more freedom for sacadas or ganchos? Choose a size that allows for this.
• Try On and Adjust: If possible, try on clothes before buying or be prepared to make minor adjustments.

Additional Reading

You can also explore related information on this blog:

• How to Measure Your Feet Correctly for the Ideal Tango Shoes
• How to Take Good Care of Your Tango Shoes
• Tango Shoes – Breaking Them in Safely, Without Breaking Your Feet
• Men's Tango Trousers: The Essential Guide for an Impeccable First Impression and Fluid Movement

Or, if you feel ready... simply start shopping:

Shoes -  Clothes -  Accessories