Hanbok is meant to be fitted to the person wearing it. Off-the-rack hanbok looks costume-y precisely because it ignores fit. A handful of well-taken measurements is enough for Eric to source or commission a piece that hangs the way it should.
What you need
A soft cloth tape measure, a friend, and a few minutes. Wear something close to the body, leggings and a fitted top. Do not measure over a sweater.
The four measurements
1. Bust or chest. Around the fullest part, tape parallel to the floor. Do not pull tight. The jeogori (top) should breathe; pulling the tape too tight makes the jacket sit short across the shoulders.
2. Waist. At the natural waist, where you would tie a chima (skirt). This is the most important number, because hanbok's silhouette is built off the waist line, not the hips.
3. Skirt length. From under the bust to where you want the hem. For ceremonial hanbok, the hem typically falls to the top of the foot or just below. For daily hanbok, mid-calf or ankle is more common.
4. Shoulder to wrist. Arm slightly bent. We use this for sleeve length and cuff opening. The traditional hanbok sleeve has a wide opening at the wrist; the modern cut sits closer.
For children
For a child's hanbok we ask for age, height, and chest circumference. For dol (first birthday) sets we additionally ask for head circumference if a jobawi or gulle hat is part of the set. Babies grow quickly, so tell Eric the event date and he will size for that date, not the order date.
For men
Men's hanbok adds shoulder width (across the back, shoulder seam to shoulder seam) and pant inseam to the four base measurements. A durumagi (long overcoat) adds total length from the back of the neck to the desired hem, usually mid-calf.
If you are unsure
Book a 15-minute video call with the studio. Eric will walk you through every measurement together. You only need a soft tape and a phone. The call is free for inquiry-stage customers.
The full sizing guide has diagrams. If you would rather just talk through what you are looking for, send Eric a message.
Talk to Eric
Looking for authentic hanbok for your occasion? Eric at The Korean In Me works personally with each customer, sources every piece from Seoul, and inspects it in San Mateo before it ships. Send Eric a message or text (707) 718-3579.