Bodice Length Adjuster
Calculate how much to lengthen or shorten the front and back bodice pieces independently — because they often need different amounts.
Enter your measurements
Measure your front and back lengths on your body, then measure the same on the pattern pieces.
Back length
Nape of neck to natural waist
Back neck seamline to waist seamline
Front length
Hollow of throat to natural waist
Front neck seamline to waist seamline
How to measure bodice length
Back length: Have a helper measure from the nape of the neck (the 7th cervical vertebra — the prominent bone at the base of the neck) straight down the center back to your natural waist (the narrowest point, usually about 1 inch above your navel). This is the standard back length measurement.
Front length: Measure from the hollow of the throat (the indentation at the base of the throat/collarbone center) straight down the center front to the natural waist. This measurement is less standardized across patterns — some patterns use shoulder point instead; check what your pattern uses.
Measure both sides if you think you may have any asymmetry. Most people's bodies are slightly asymmetrical but it rarely affects pattern fitting.
Why front and back often differ
The front bodice length is affected by bust size. A larger bust creates more horizontal circumference, but it also pulls fabric downward at CF — meaning the front waist seam hangs lower than the pattern expects. A full bust adjustment (FBA) often includes a front length adjustment for this reason.
The back bodice length is affected by posture. A swayback (hollow lower back) shortens the effective back length at CB. A round back or full back lengthens it. These are independent of bust size.
It's completely normal to need a different front and back adjustment. Adjust each piece based on its own measurement.