The outseam is a crucial measurement in pants, representing the length of the fabric from the top of the waistband to the bottom hem. Understanding the outseam is essential for accurate fitting, tailoring, and even pattern making. This comprehensive guide will delve into what the outseam is, why it's important, and answer common questions surrounding this key measurement.
What is the difference between inseam and outseam?
The inseam measures the length of the pants' inner leg, from the crotch seam to the bottom hem. In contrast, the outseam measures the entire length of the pants leg along the outside, from the waistband's top to the hem. Therefore, the outseam is always longer than the inseam. Knowing both measurements is critical for a proper fit, especially when altering or ordering custom-made pants.
How do I measure the outseam of my pants?
Measuring your pants' outseam is straightforward:
- Lay the pants flat: Ensure the pants are laid flat on a surface, smoothing out any wrinkles.
- Find the top of the waistband: Locate the highest point of the waistband.
- Measure to the hem: Using a measuring tape, measure from the top of the waistband to the bottom of the hem along the outer leg.
- Record the measurement: Note the measurement in inches or centimeters.
It's crucial to measure along the outside of the leg to obtain the accurate outseam measurement.
Why is knowing the outseam important?
The outseam is vital for several reasons:
- Accurate Sizing: When purchasing pants online or from a catalog, the outseam (along with other measurements) ensures you select the correct size. An incorrect outseam will result in pants that are either too short or too long.
- Alterations: If your pants need alterations, the outseam provides the tailor with the necessary information to lengthen or shorten them appropriately.
- Pattern Making: In garment construction, the outseam is a fundamental measurement used in creating and adjusting sewing patterns.
- Comparing Pants: When comparing different styles or brands of pants, the outseam allows for a consistent way to assess the overall length.
How is the outseam used in pattern making?
In pattern making, the outseam is a key reference point for several aspects:
- Gradelines: The outseam is often marked with gradelines to indicate where alterations can be made to adjust the fit.
- Hem Allowance: Tailors use the outseam measurement to determine the correct hem allowance needed.
- Length Adjustments: Any adjustments to the length of the pants are directly reflected in the outseam measurement.
What if my pants have a dropped crotch?
Pants with a dropped crotch will have a slightly altered outseam measurement due to the lower crotch position. The measurement process remains the same, measuring from the highest point of the waistband to the bottom hem along the outer leg. However, the outseam will likely be slightly longer compared to pants with a standard crotch.
What is the difference in outseam measurements between men's and women's pants?
While the method of measuring the outseam is the same for both men's and women's pants, the typical lengths vary due to differences in average height and body proportions. Men's pants generally have longer outseams than women's pants.
Understanding the outseam is a valuable skill for anyone interested in clothing, whether it's for buying, altering, or even designing pants. This knowledge empowers you to select well-fitting pants and facilitates necessary alterations for a perfect fit.
