I often find after I place an item on my uniform that it's not where I need it, but only after I put it on my body. And it's tough (nearly impossible) to do in the mirror.

I'm thinking a dress form would be the way to go. Or perhaps there's something more appropriate?

I know there's a tailor's dress form that is adjustable so it would better match my measurements, but I can't justify the expenditure for an item I'd only use a few times a year. Something in the price range of $50-$100 sounds more appropriate.

You should check out YouTube.  There are videos of people making their own custom dress/body forms with a process that involves wrapping yourself with plastic wrap and then layers of duck tape.  Sounds like it should be less than $50.


_{* Disclaimer: Go watch the videos for proper instructions before you begin... don't blame me if you use this post as your sole source of inspiration and accidentally mummify yourself.}

The way that I have always done it is to use a tailors ruler. It is way less expensive than a dress form or mannequin with no guessing. You just get the measurements and center the device. I have used that ever since basic training over 40 years ago.

Quote from: baronet68 on March 18, 2024, 05:10:46 AMYou should check out YouTube.  There are videos of people making their own custom dress/body forms with a process that involves wrapping yourself with plastic wrap and then layers of duck tape.  Sounds like it should be less than $50.

...wondering if these same videos lead to hugging oneself in a padded room...but I'll check them out.

Quote from: CAPJOE on March 18, 2024, 05:16:59 AMThe way that I have always done it is to use a tailors ruler. It is way less expensive than a dress form or mannequin with no guessing. You just get the measurements and center the device. I have used that ever since basic training over 40 years ago.

Sounds too simplistic, could never work for me 

You could have someone help you set it up perfect once, i.e. you wear the uniform and your helper puts the accessories on while you're wearing it. Then, take it off, lay it out, take a picture. Then, pick a landmark (2nd button down, under arm seam, etc) for each side and measure everything on the side from the land mark AND write it down.

@baronet68 - I like!
I think this will be my solution.

This is what I hate about the current USAF-style Service Coat, no pockets to line stuff up on. With the old-style coat, everything, except the "U.S." collar devices, lined up centered on the pockets.

Quick, easy and pin holes stayed visible even after dry cleaning so putting everything back on was easy too.

That's why I stay in polos as much as possible.

I can't even imagine what it is like for females with nothing to line up on except a buttonhole stitch.