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Clothing Measurement Updated August 13, 2025

Hollow to floor

'Hollow to floor' measures from the base of your neck to the floor, ensuring dresses fit your full length. It’s key for custom or formal gowns.

Category

Clothing Measurement

Use Case

Used to measure the length from the hollow of the neck to the floor for proper garment fitting.

Key Features

In Simple Terms

What it is

"Hollow to floor" is a measurement used mostly in clothing, especially for dresses or gowns. It’s the distance from the hollow at the base of your neck (the dip between your collarbones) straight down to the floor. Think of it like measuring how long a curtain would need to be to touch the ground from the top of a window.

Why people use it

This measurement helps ensure clothes fit perfectly, especially long garments like wedding dresses, prom gowns, or formal wear. Without it, a dress might be too short or drag on the floor. It’s like measuring a tablecloth so it hangs just right—not too high, not too low.

Basic examples

  • Wedding dresses: A bride measures "hollow to floor" so her gown grazes the floor elegantly, even with heels on.
  • Custom tailoring: Someone ordering a long dress online uses this to avoid guessing the right length.
  • Growing kids: Parents might track this for children’s formal wear to account for growth spurts.

  • It’s a simple way to get the length right without trying things on repeatedly. Just stand straight, measure once, and you’re done!

    Technical Details

    What It Is


    Hollow to floor is a measurement used primarily in the fashion and tailoring industries, specifically for garments like dresses, gowns, and skirts. It refers to the vertical distance from the hollow of the neck (the indentation between the collarbones) to the floor, taken while the person stands barefoot on a flat surface. This measurement ensures the garment's length is proportionate to the wearer's height, particularly for floor-length designs.

    How It Works


    The measurement is taken using a flexible tape measure, with the person standing straight in a natural posture. The tape is placed at the hollow of the neck, allowed to hang straight down, and extended to the floor. Accuracy is critical, as even small deviations can affect the garment's fit. Some tailors or designers may use digital tools or laser measuring devices for precision, though manual measurement remains the standard.

    Key Components


  • Tape Measure: A flexible, non-stretchable measuring tape for accuracy.
  • Flat Surface: Ensures the person stands evenly, avoiding skewed measurements.
  • Barefoot Stance: Removes the variability introduced by footwear.
  • Assistant or Mirror: Helps verify the tape hangs straight and perpendicular to the floor.

  • Common Use Cases


  • Bridal Gowns: Ensures the dress hem aligns perfectly with the floor, accounting for heels if worn.
  • Evening Dresses: Custom-fit floor-length garments for formal events.
  • Theatrical Costumes: Accurate measurements for stage performances where length affects movement.
  • Custom Tailoring: Bespoke clothing where precise proportions are essential.