PTP

PTP Size Guide

PTP — which stands for Point to Point — is a term widely used across the fashion and garment industry to describe a specific method of measuring clothing. Rather than being a standalone fashion brand, PTP is a universal measurement standard that refers to the distance between two defined points on a garment when laid flat. For example, “PTP chest” means the measurement taken from one armpit seam to the other across the front of a garment, laid flat on a surface. This measurement is then typically doubled to give the full circumference. Understanding PTP measurements is essential for anyone buying clothing online, shopping on resale platforms such as eBay, Depop or Vinted, or comparing sizing across different brands. Because sizing labels (S, M, L, UK 10, US 8, etc.) vary significantly from brand to brand, PTP measurements offer an objective, numerical way to determine whether a garment will actually fit you. This guide explains what PTP means, how to take PTP measurements at home, and provides standard size charts for men’s and women’s clothing using PTP values so you can shop with confidence.

What Does PTP Mean in Clothing?

PTP stands for Point to Point. It is a flat-lay measurement technique used by sellers, manufacturers and tailors to communicate the exact dimensions of a garment. When a seller lists a top as “PTP 20 inches,” they mean that the garment measures 20 inches across the chest from one side seam to the other when laid flat. To get the full chest circumference, you would double this figure — so 20″ PTP equals a 40″ chest. PTP measurements can be taken at various points on a garment, including:

• Chest / Bust PTP: Measured across the chest from armpit seam to armpit seam, laid flat.
• Waist PTP: Measured across the narrowest part of the garment’s waist, laid flat.
• Hip PTP: Measured across the widest part of the hip area, laid flat.
• Shoulder PTP: Measured from one shoulder seam to the other across the back.
• Length: Measured from the highest point of the shoulder (or back of the collar) down to the hem.
• Sleeve PTP: Measured from the shoulder seam to the cuff.

How to Measure PTP

1. Find a garment that fits you well — Choose a top, dress, jacket or pair of trousers that you are comfortable in and that represents your ideal fit.
2. Lay the garment flat on a smooth surface — Ensure it is buttoned or zipped up (if applicable) and that there are no creases or folds distorting the fabric. Smooth it out gently with your hands.
3. Use a flexible fabric tape measure — A soft dressmaker’s tape is ideal. If you only have a rigid tape measure, lay it alongside the garment carefully.
4. Measure the chest PTP — Place the tape measure horizontally across the garment from the left armpit seam to the right armpit seam. Record the measurement in inches or centimetres.
5. Measure the waist PTP — Identify the narrowest point of the garment’s torso (usually a few inches below the chest) and measure straight across from side seam to side seam.
6. Measure the hip PTP — Find the widest point across the hip area of the garment and measure from side seam to side seam.
7. Measure the length — For tops, measure from the highest point of the shoulder down to the hem. For trousers, measure the inside leg from the crotch seam to the bottom hem.
8. Double the PTP value for circumference — Remember that PTP is a half-measurement. To compare with standard body-measurement size charts, multiply the PTP figure by two.
9. Record all measurements — Write down each PTP measurement and keep them as a reference when shopping online or comparing garments from different brands.

Women’s Clothing — PTP Size Chart

The table below shows standard women’s sizes with their corresponding UK, US and EU equivalents, along with approximate PTP measurements (flat-lay, half-circumference values) and full body measurements. Use this chart to match your own PTP garment measurements to the correct size.

Men’s Clothing — PTP Size Chart

Men’s garments typically have wider chest and waist PTP measurements and less defined waist-to-hip differences compared to women’s clothing. Use the chart below to match your flat-lay garment measurements to standard men’s sizes.

Common PTP Measurements for Specific Garment Types

Different types of clothing require PTP measurements taken at different points. Below is a quick-reference guide for the most common garments you’ll encounter when PTP measurements are listed.

PTP vs. Body Measurements — Understanding the Difference

One of the most common sources of confusion when using PTP measurements is the difference between a garment measurement and a body measurement. Here is a clear breakdown:

• PTP (garment measurement): The measurement of the garment itself, taken flat. This is a half-circumference value. A top with a 19″ chest PTP has a total circumference of 38″.
• Body measurement: The measurement around your body taken with a tape measure, typically in full circumference. If your bust measures 36″, you need a garment with at least 18″ chest PTP — but you may prefer slightly more ease.
• Ease: The extra room built into a garment beyond your body measurement. A relaxed-fit top might have 4–6″ of ease in the chest, whilst a slim-fit top may have only 1–2″.

When comparing your body measurements to PTP values, always account for the type of fit you prefer. If you like a slim fit, choose a garment whose doubled PTP chest measurement is 1–2 inches larger than your actual chest. For a relaxed or oversized fit, look for 4–6 inches of additional ease.

How to Use PTP Measurements When Shopping Online

PTP measurements are especially valuable when buying secondhand or pre-owned clothing, where standard size labels may have faded or where brands use inconsistent sizing. Follow these steps:

1. Measure a garment you already own that fits you well, using the PTP method described above.
2. Record your ideal PTP values for chest, waist, hips and length.
3. Compare with the seller’s listed PTP measurements — many resale platforms encourage sellers to provide PTP dimensions.
4. Allow a tolerance of ±0.5 inches for slight variations in measuring technique between individuals.
5. Ask the seller for PTP measurements if they have not been provided — most experienced sellers will be happy to measure for you.

Sizing Tips

• Always double the PTP value: Remember that PTP is a flat-lay, half-circumference measurement. Multiply by two to get the full circumference for comparison with standard body size charts.
• Measure a garment you love: The most reliable way to use PTP measurements is to measure a garment that already fits you perfectly, then compare those figures with the PTP measurements provided by the seller or brand.
• Account for fabric stretch: Garments made from jersey, elastane blends or knitted fabrics will stretch beyond their flat-lay PTP measurement. Woven cotton, denim and tailored fabrics will not, so PTP accuracy is even more critical for non-stretch items.
• Consider the intended fit: A PTP measurement alone doesn’t tell you whether a garment is slim-fit, regular or oversized. Two size-M tops from different brands may have very different PTP values because of their design silhouette. Always factor in the style of the garment.
• Don’t forget length and rise: Chest PTP is the most commonly quoted measurement, but length (for tops and dresses) and rise (for trousers) are equally important for a comfortable fit. Always ask for or check multiple PTP dimensions.
• Lay garments on a hard, flat surface: Taking PTP measurements on a bed or carpet can introduce inaccuracies. Use a table or hard floor for the most reliable results.
• Measure zipped or buttoned: If the garment has a front opening, ensure it is fully fastened before measuring PTP to replicate how it sits when worn.
• Be aware of size label inconsistency: A “UK 12” from one brand may have a chest PTP of 18″, whilst the same labelled size from another brand measures 19.5″. PTP measurements cut through this inconsistency and give you a true indication of fit.