A dalmatic that fits well looks dignified, allows the deacon to move freely and keeps the garment in the right place during the liturgy. Because a dalmatic is worn over an alb and a stole, its measurements cannot be copied directly from an ordinary jacket or shirt. You need a few clear measurements and a little patience.
This guide explains what to measure, how to measure it, and which ranges are typical for dalmatics made in our workshop. It is written for sacristans, parish volunteers and deacons who are ordering a vestment for the first time.
What measurements do you need?
For a dalmatic, four measurements matter most:
- Length — from the shoulder line to the hem.
- Width — across the chest, from one side of the garment to the other.
- Sleeve opening — the circumference of the sleeve at the wrist or forearm, depending on the cut.
- Stole length — if the dalmatic is ordered with a matching deacon's stole.
It also helps to note the wearer's height and usual clothing size. These are not a substitute for measurements, but they help us check that the proportions are right.
How to measure length
Ask the wearer to stand straight, wearing the alb or a similar garment. Place the tape at the top of the shoulder, near the neck, and let it fall straight down the front to the desired hem. For a dalmatic, the hem should reach at least the knees and may fall lower depending on the style and the wearer's preference.
Write down the measurement in centimetres and inches. If the wearer is between two lengths, choose the longer one only if the extra length will not trip them; otherwise choose the shorter one and check the hem in person.
How to measure width
With the wearer standing naturally, measure across the chest from the left side seam to the right side seam of a garment that fits well. Do not pull the tape tight. The dalmatic must have enough room to sit over the alb and stole without pulling at the shoulders.
If you are measuring a person rather than a garment, measure around the chest and add ease. A dalmatic is not a fitted garment, so the width should allow a comfortable drape rather than a close fit.
How to measure the sleeve opening
Measure around the widest part of the forearm or around the wrist, depending on where the sleeve ends. The sleeve should be wide enough to allow the hand to pass through easily and to leave room for the alb sleeve underneath. If the dalmatic has an open or slit sleeve, note the opening length as well.
Typical dalmatic measurements
The exact measurements depend on the model and the wearer. In our collection, the product descriptions usually give a length and a width. The typical ranges are:
| Measurement | Typical range (cm) | Typical range (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Length, shoulder to hem | 106–127 cm | 41.7–50.0 in |
| Width, side to side | 116–150 cm | 45.7–59.1 in |
These are ranges, not fixed sizes. A shorter dalmatic may be appropriate for a smaller wearer or a chapel with a low ambo; a longer and wider dalmatic may be preferred for a solemn procession. Always check the individual product description before ordering.
Fit checklist before you order
- The shoulders sit on the natural shoulder line, not halfway down the arm.
- The sleeves allow the arms to be raised without pulling the body of the garment.
- The hem clears the knees and does not touch the floor when the wearer walks.
- The stole lies flat under the dalmatic and does not bunch at the neck.
- The garment can be put on and taken off without twisting the alb.
- The colour and fabric match the liturgical season and the other vestments.
Made-to-measure or standard?
A standard dalmatic is a good choice when the wearer is close to the average proportions and the parish needs the vestment quickly. Made-to-measure is better when the wearer is very tall or short, when the parish has a specific style in mind, or when the dalmatic must match an existing set.
If you order made-to-measure, send the measurements in centimetres and inches, note the date by which you need the vestment, and ask for a confirmation before production begins. Allow extra time for embroidery and for the liturgical season.
Need help choosing?
Browse our dalmatics for deacons and check the length and width in each product description. If you are still unsure, contact us with the wearer's height, chest measurement and the length you measured; we will help you choose a standard size or discuss a made-to-measure option.
Related guides: who can wear a dalmatic, dalmatic meaning and symbolism, and dalmatic fabric guide.
