measuring

[bubba]

Rocky, this might sound like a silly question, but how would you measure for a philibeg without jeans? I noted the measuring instructions are based on jeans and <gasp!> I don't have any anymore. Down the road I plan on ordering one, when the medical gets paid off.

[richardljohnson]

Bubba. I can't speak for Rocky but the 3 kilts I have gotten from them I have actually taken my pants waist size minus 1 inch. Keeping in mind that Rocky has generously given what I call the 'Thanksgiving Day' sizing. +or-1-2 inches (the velcro adjustments). This is what I have found. Rocky is the "final" authority but I can tell you by using this guide mine look great.


RLJ-

[bubba]

Richard, for a traditional I measure a 42 waist. My jeans fashion size is 38 + or -. I noted though their measuring guide calls for putting on jeans and measuring through the loops. I followed Hamishs example and I don't have any jeans anymore. It kinda left me wondering.

[Jimmy Carbomb]

Jeans, slacks, shorts, leiderhosen, whatever. The real point is to place the measuring tape through existing (well fitting) belt looped garments to get a good approximate number. It's safer than measuring against the skin, as the tape can slip and slide to give a not-so accurate number.

And NEVER take Levi's or anyone elses numbers to be accurate. A 38 in Levi's can be a 42 in someone else's book. Always measure. You would be AMAZEd how many times we had people order their jeans size only to send it back for altering since it was 3-4 inches too small.

Measure twice... order once.

[bubba]

I make my kilts 42 to the tape and I measure at the navel. That gives me a good fit. I'll have to check out St. Vincent for the pants though. The only trousers I have left are a beltless pair of dress pants. That's all I kept to go with my sports jacket for the rare occasion I need to cater to someone elses not liking the kilts.

[RockyR]

Hey Bubba,

Here's the deal...

First, Jimmy is right... NEVER take your jeans/pant size to be an accurate sizing of your kilt. Your pants LIE to you to make you feel good about your weight. If you're a size 34 jean, you're PROBABLY really a 36 inch waist.

Secondly, just measure where you're GOING to be wearing the kilt. If that is up around the navel (most people wear our traditionals around the naval and the Philabegs and casuals where they wear their jeans), then measure yourself around the naval... please note that you should measure your LENGTH from the same height down to your kneecap. If you WILL be wearing it at "jeans level" (an inch or two below naval), then measure it from there.

I hope this clears things up a bit for you. If you have ANY doubt, call me at the shop and I can walk you through it.

[bubba]

Thanks Rocky and Jimmy. That clears that up nicely.