How to Measure Dress Length

• For a dress with sleeves or straps, measure from the top of the strap or shoulder seam to the bottom of the hem.
• If you have a sleeveless dress, measure from the hollow of your neck to the bottom of the hem.
• Generally, micro or mini dresses are 30 to 35 inches (76 to 89 cm) long and cocktail dresses are 36 to 40 inches (91 to 102 cm) long.
• Maxi dresses, or those that are ankle- or floor-length, measure around 55 to 62 inches (140 to 160 cm).

Taking Measurements

Lay the dress flat on the floor or a countertop. Use your hands to smooth out the dress so it as flat as possible, with the front of the dress facing up. Make sure any ruffles or details on the bottom and straps of the dress lay flat.

Place the measuring tape on the top strap of a dress with straps. Take a measuring tape made for garments and place one end on the top of one of the straps.

Measure from the top to the bottom edge of the dress. Extend the measuring tape horizontally from the top of the strap to the bottom edge. Note where the bottom edge hits on the measuring tape and record the measurement. For a dress with sleeves, measure from the top of the shoulder seam down to the hem of the dress. Most dresses are at least 30 inches (76 cm) in length and can be as long as 62 inches (160 cm) in length.

Put on the dress and measure from the hollow of your neck if it is strapless. Measuring a strapless dress must be done when you have it on. Place one end of the measuring tape at the center of your collarbone and then extend the tape down to the bottom edge of the dress to get the correct measurement. You may need a friend to help you hold the measuring tape in place.

Identifying the Dress Type

Notice if the dress length is between 30 to 35 inches (76 to 89 cm). If the total length of the dress falls within these measurements, it is a very short dress that will sit on the upper to mid thigh, known as a micro or mini dress.

Check if the dress measures between 36 to 40 inches (91 to 102 cm). This means the dress will sit just above the knee or just at the knee, known as a cocktail length dress. If you are very tall or very short, the dress may hit you differently in the knee area depending on your height.

Notice if the dress length is between 41 to 45 inches (100 to 110 cm). This means the dress will fall just below the knee or at the calves, known as a midi dress.

Check if the dress measures between 55 to 62 inches (140 to 160 cm). This means the dress will be fairly long, falling at your ankles or to the floor, known as a maxi dress.