How to measure May 20, 2026 4 min read
How to Measure a Child for a Costume
Halloween costumes go over warm layers. Always size up 1. Here's the measurement set + the layering rule.
Measure Over Layers
- Wear the layer system the costume will go over (Halloween: t-shirt + sweater).
- Height barefoot against wall.
- Chest, waist, hip over the layers.
- Sleeve over base + mid layer.
- Size up 1 from chart-suggested size for Halloween.
Costume Size by Age + Height
| Age | Height | Costume size | Chest |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2T | 33-36" | 2T | 21-22" |
| 4T | 39-42" | 4T / 4-5 | 23-24" |
| 6 | 44-47" | 5-6 / S | 25-26" |
| 8 | 48-51" | 7-8 / M | 27-28" |
| 10 | 52-55" | 9-10 / L | 29-30" |
| 12 | 56-59" | 11-12 / XL | 31-32" |
| 14 | 60-63" | 13-14 | 33-34" |
Common Mistakes
Sizing without layers in mind
Halloween in cold weather = costume over sweater. Size up 1.
Buying months before the event
Kids grow. Buy 4-6 weeks before the event for best fit.
Long hems that drag
Costume hem must clear the floor for safe trick-or-treating.
Tight costumes for active kids
Kids run, climb, and play in costumes. Never size down.
FAQs
How are costumes sized?
Kids' XS-XL or 2T-14, by height + chest.
Size up for Halloween?
Yes — 1 size up for warm-layer wearing.
Costume vs regular kids' clothing?
Costumes are looser, less structured.
Between sizes?
Always size up.
Play vs Halloween costumes?
Play: true to size. Halloween: 1 up.
How long can same size last?
1-2 Halloweens.
One Number, One Size Up, Done
For full kids' chart see kids' clothing size chart.
Selling kids' costumes on Shopify?
Tailor Size Guide adds height + layered chest matching to every costume listing.