To measure your armhole, loop the tape around the top of your arm where it joins the shoulder, passing it under your armpit and up over the shoulder point, then read where the two ends meet. That number, called the armhole round, tells your tailor how big the opening for your arm should be. At House of Daisy on Golf Course Road, Gurugram, it is the measurement we double-check most, because a tight armhole is the single most common reason a blouse or kurta feels uncomfortable.
Step by step: the armhole round
- Stand relaxed with your arm hanging naturally at your side. Do not lift it.
- Find your shoulder point, the bony tip at the outer edge of your shoulder.
- Pass the tape under your armpit, close to the body but not digging in.
- Bring both ends up to meet at the shoulder point and read the number.
- Keep one finger inside the loop so it is snug rather than tight.
Measure both arms if you can. Many people are slightly larger on one side, and a tailor will cut to the larger one.
Why do tight armholes cause so much trouble?
Your arms move constantly: lifting a plate, hugging a cousin, raising your hands to dance. A blouse or kurta that fits at the bust but is tight at the armhole pulls the whole front upward each time you move. You will notice it as:
- a red line under the arm after an hour or two;
- the blouse riding up at the waist when you raise your arms;
- sleeves that pinch, even when the sleeve round itself is correct;
- the side seam twisting towards the front.
An armhole cut too loose has its own problem: it gapes and can show the side of your bra. The aim is a clean fit with a little room for movement.
How much room should a blouse or kurta have?
As general guidance only, tailors usually add a small amount of ease to the armhole round, a little for a fitted blouse and a little more for a kurta, which sits less close. Exact amounts vary between makers and styles, which is why you should give your body measurement and let the person cutting the garment decide the ease. Sleeveless styles also need a slightly different shape at the front, so mention it if you want one.
Does the armhole change with padding or heavy work?
It can. Cups or padding can be added to any blouse, ready or made to order, and padding sits close to the armhole, so a blouse with cups needs its armhole checked again at the fitting. Heavy embroidery around the sleeve head or on a stiff fabric such as brocade also gives less, so the cut may need a touch more room than the same blouse in soft georgette.
What do I do if a ready piece is tight at the arms?
On most of our ready suits, the neckline or sleeves can be changed, usually within about a week, so a sleeve that pinches can often be reworked. Our ready blouses and suits come in sizes up to 5XL and beyond, and any size can also be made to measure. Take a look at our ready-made suits and bring the one you like to the showroom so we can check the armhole on you.
If you are having a piece made to order, you choose the fabric, colour, neckline, sleeves and embroidery one by one, and the armhole is cut to your own measurement. Order a festive or party outfit 3 to 4 weeks ahead. If your event is under 3 weeks away, a ready piece is the better choice.
Where can I get measured properly?
Come in and our team will measure you. You can also be guided through measuring on a video call, and we ship worldwide. Our only showroom is Shop 226A, 2nd Floor, DT Mega Mall, Golf Course Road, DLF Phase 1, Sector 28, Gurugram, open every day from 11 AM to 9 PM. Walk-ins are welcome to see pieces, and our guide to visiting the showroom explains what to expect.
Common questions
Is armhole the same as sleeve round?
No. The armhole is where the sleeve joins the body. Sleeve round is measured around the fullest part of your upper arm.
Should I lift my arm while measuring?
No. Keep it relaxed at your side. Lifting it changes the reading.
Why does my blouse ride up when I raise my arms?
Usually because the armhole is too tight or sits too low. A fitting can show which.
Can a ready blouse armhole be adjusted?
Often, yes. Bring it to the showroom and we will check what can be changed.
Armhole tight ho toh kya karein?
Showroom par le aaiye. Zyadatar ready suits mein sleeves badli ja sakti hain, aam taur par lagbhag ek hafte mein.
Armhole naapte waqt haath upar karna hai?
Nahi, haath seedha neeche aaram se rakhiye.
Written by the House of Daisy studio · Ask us anything on WhatsApp (opens in a new tab)