The most important measurement is the GIRTH measurement. WHY? Because most costumes stretch SIDEWAYS, not up and down. Measure girth from the center of the right shoulder, through the crotch, and back to the starting point. Hold the tape loosely. When in doubt, let the girth measurement be your guide.

REMEMBER -- YOU know your students best. If they gain or lose 38 pounds over the next few months, or they grow four inches, this will definitely affect the way the costumes fit.

LOOK AT YOUR STUDENTS!!! If the girth says one size, but your student has an exceptionally large bust or is exceptionally thin, you must take this into consideration when ordering your costumes.