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SHORT TORSO VS LONG TORSO – How to measure your torso, 3 ways (with pictures)

Writer's picture: Victory Ezeji Image & Style CoachVictory Ezeji Image & Style Coach

Updated: May 30, 2024

This could explain why you haven't yet achieved that satisfying feeling of nailing a beautiful look.


 

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In order to create well-balanced and visually appealing outfits, it's important to consider both the horizontal and vertical proportions of your body. If you find it challenging to achieve this effect even after identifying your body shape, it's possible that you haven't fully understood your torso type. This could explain why you haven't yet achieved that satisfying feeling of nailing a beautiful look.


For a better understanding of today's blog post, we will try to understand the meaning of TORSO. The torso is often referred to as the trunk of the human body. It is the central part that houses many vital organs and plays a crucial role in overall physical function. From the chest to the abdomen, the torso encompasses a complex network of muscles, bones, and organs that support posture, protect internal structures, and facilitate movement.


IN STYLING

While Body type describes the type or shape of your body by determining the horizontal proportions of your body, Torso relative to styling refers to your vertical proportions in creating balanced and proportioned outfits that bring about visually appealing outfits.



Your Torso in styling is essential to creating vertically proportioned looks and this deals with the length of your clothes. It helps in determining how to find your best hem length and how best to pair different lengths of clothes, whether you want to elongate or shorten your body to create that visually appealing effect after you are done dressing. Your torso equally describes what type of legs you have, because both are two sides of the same coin, whether you have short, long, or balanced legs to your upper body, is all determined by your torso.


THE 3 BROAD TORSO CATEGORIES




The torso can be categorized into three types, each of which determines the length of your legs. A short torso has long legs, a long torso has short legs, and a balanced torso means that the legs are about the same length as the upper body. It's important to note that your height doesn't affect your torso length. For example, a petite woman who is 153 cm (5'0") can have a short torso with long legs, and a tall woman who is 173 cm (5'8) can have a long torso with short legs.


HOW TO DETERMINE YOUR TORSO (3 ways)

1st Method: Subtract your height from the measurement of the widest part of your hips.


In order to use this method, you need to know your height. If you're unsure about your height, you can seek assistance from an expert to measure it accurately. You will need a measuring tape for this method. Measure from your feet to the widest part of your hip. Then, subtract your height from the number you obtained. For example, if your height is 60 inches and the widest part of your hip is 31 inches, your torso after subtraction would be 29 inches. In this case, you have a balanced torso because there isn't a significant difference between your upper and lower body.


2nd Method: Determine your upper body and lower body.

To measure your upper body, use the measuring tape from the top of your head down to your crotch. For your lower body measurement, use the measuring tape from your crotch to your feet. If your upper body measurement is more than two inches longer than your lower body, you likely have a long torso. If your lower body measurement is more than two inches longer than your upper body, you likely have a short torso.


3rd Method: THE TWO HAND METHOD.


To determine if you have a long or short torso, you can use this simple method that only requires using your hands. First, place your left hand under your chest and then place the right hand under your left hand, where is your belly button? If your right hand fully covers your belly button, you likely have a short torso. However, if your belly button is below your right hand, chances are you have a long torso. Keep in mind that this method may not be entirely accurate, especially if you have a large bust, as it could affect the outcome.


For accurate measurements, follow these expert tips:

- Wear fitted clothing such as a top and leggings to see your body clearly.

- Stand up straight and avoid arching your back.

- It's best to have someone else take your measurements for you.


Hope you have been able to determine your torso type. Now, get styling, create balanced and beautiful outfits that you can feel comfortable in, and remember to share this post with a friend.



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