How Costume Sizing Works

Costume sizing is not streetwear sizing — and knowing the difference is the fastest way to get a costume that fits right on opening night. Here's how we size what we sell, how to measure yourself properly, and what to do when you're between sizes.

How costume sizing works

We carry costumes from more than a dozen manufacturers, and each brand cuts to its own size chart. A Medium from Leg Avenue is not the same Medium you'll get from Rubies or Forum Novelties. That's why the size guide on our product pages shows you the chart for that product's brand — the same chart the manufacturer grades its patterns against.

When we have measurements of the actual garment, we show those instead. Garment measurements are taken flat from the piece itself, so compare them against a similar piece you already own.

How to measure yourself

Grab a soft measuring tape, wear the undergarments you'll wear with the costume, and don't pull the tape tight — it should sit level and comfortable.

• Chest / Bust: Measure around the fullest part, with the tape level under the arms.
• Waist: Measure around the natural waistline, above the hip bones. Don't hold your breath — we've all done it.
• Hips: Measure around the fullest part of the hips and seat.
• Inseam: Measure from the crotch seam to the ankle on a pair of trousers that fit you well.

Write your numbers down before you shop. Two minutes with a tape measure saves an exchange later.

Why costumes run smaller than everyday clothing

Most costumes are built for a night or a production run, not a lifetime of wear — so manufacturers grade them in fewer sizes and cut them closer to the body than everyday clothing. Form-fitting styles, bodysuits, and jumpsuits are the most affected. Rubies says it plainly on their own chart: form-fitting costumes tend to run small.

Between sizes? Size up

It's the oldest rule in the costume shop. A slightly roomy costume can be taken in, pinned, or belted in minutes; a too-small costume can't be let out. If your measurements land between two sizes — or one measurement lands in a bigger size than the others — order the larger size.

Brand sizing at a glance

Every brand chart below appears in the size guide on that brand's product pages. A few things worth knowing:

• Rubies — runs small on form-fitting styles; when in doubt, size up.
• Smiffys — charted in UK sizing; your US size is typically two below the UK size (UK 8–10 = US 6–8).
• RG Costumes — publishes garment measurements rather than body measurements; compare against clothing that fits you well.
• Leg Avenue, Dreamgirl, Music Legs — women's costume and hosiery brands with one-size and queen/plus ranges; check the chart's one-size range against your measurements rather than assuming fit.
• Elope — headwear is one size, designed to fit most teens and adults; kids' styles include an internal size adjuster.
• Disguise, Fun World, Forum Novelties, Under Wraps, Dress Up America, Costume Culture, Alexanders — standard adult and child charts, all available in the product-page size guide.
• Wigs and masks — nearly all one size, with stretch caps and adjustable fits.

Sizing a whole cast?

Costuming a production is different from buying one costume — you're fitting a cast list, a budget, and a deadline all at once. We work with drama departments, schools, and theatre companies every day. Send us your cast measurements and we'll help you build the order, purchase orders welcome.

Still not sure?

Ask us. We've been outfitting the stage since 1955, and fit questions are half of what we do.

Call 800.827.2414 · Email orders@theatrehouse.com · Contact us online
Local? Same-day pickup in Fort Collins.