A Parent's Guide to Measuring Your Child for School Uniforms

By Harrisons Schoolwear – Bolton’s Trusted Uniform Specialists

As the new school year approaches, one of the most important tasks for parents is making sure your child’s uniform fits just right. At Harrisons Schoolwear in Bolton, we know how tricky sizing can be – especially when little ones are constantly growing! To help make uniform shopping stress-free, we’ve put together a simple guide to measuring your child at home for trousers, cardigans, polo shirts, sweatshirts, PE shorts, and PE skorts.

What You'll Need:

• A soft tape measure (in inches or centimetres)

• Pen and paper or your phone to note the measurements

• Your child standing straight, wearing light clothing

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Measuring for Trousers

Getting the right fit for trousers ensures your child stays comfortable and confident throughout the school day.

1. Waist:Measure around the natural waistline – just above the belly button. The tape should be snug but not tight.

2. Inside Leg (Inseam):Measure from the crotch down to just below the ankle bone.

🟡 Top Tip: Many school trousers have adjustable waists – ideal for growing children!

Measuring for Cardigans and Sweatshirts

Both cardigans and sweatshirts follow similar sizing and should have a relaxed, comfortable fit.

1. Chest:Wrap the tape around the fullest part of the chest, under the arms and across the back. Make sure the tape stays level.

2. Sleeve Length (Optional):Measure from the top of the shoulder down to the wrist.

🟡 Helpful Hint: If your child is between sizes, go up a size for extra comfort and longer wear.

Measuring for Polo Shirts

Polo shirts should fit neatly around the chest and shoulders but allow for movement and play.

1. Chest:Measure around the chest as above. A bit of room is ideal, especially for active children.

2. Length (Optional):Measure from the top of the shoulder to where you'd like the polo to end – usually just below the waist.

🟡 Pro Tip: Polo shirts can shrink slightly after washing, so don’t size down too much.

Measuring for PE Shorts

PE shorts need to be comfortable and allow for plenty of movement.

1. Waist:Measure around the natural waistline. Elasticated or drawstring waists are common, so you’ll want a snug but flexible fit.

2. Length:Measure from the waist down to the point where you'd like the shorts to end – typically mid-thigh or just above the knee.

🟡 Tip: Make sure your child can run, stretch, and bend easily in them.

Measuring for PE Skorts

PE skorts (a skirt with built-in shorts) are a popular choice for active girls who want comfort and coverage.

1. Waist:Measure as with shorts – around the natural waistline.

2. Hips (Optional):Measure the widest part of the hips for a more tailored fit.

3. Length:Measure from the waist down to where you want the skort to finish – typically mid-thigh.

🟡 Bonus Tip: Choose a size that allows easy movement during sports and PE activities.

Final Tips for a Perfect Fit

✅ Always check the brand’s size guide – sizing can vary slightly across different uniform suppliers.

✅ Try before you buy – our friendly Bolton team is happy to help with fittings in-store.

✅ Allow room to grow – children can surprise us with growth spurts!

Visit Us In-Store

Harrisons Schoolwear is your local school uniform expert in Bolton. We stock a full range of uniforms and PE kits for local schools and are here to make your back-to-school shopping quick, easy, and hassle-free.

Where to find us: 467A Blackburn Road, Bolton, 

Lancashire BL1 8NN

Call us: 07948 509039

Need a hand with sizes or school-specific uniform info?Pop in-store or give us a ring – we're always happy to help!

Harrisons Schoolwear – Keeping Bolton’s Students Smart, Comfortable & Ready for Anything!