How To: Measure an inseam

Jeans are tricky, especially if you're not entirely sure what your inseam is? To get the proper fit jeans, you need to break out the measuring tape and finally figure out what size you should be. The first step to finding pants and jeans that fit perfectly is measuring your inseam.

You Will Need
* Notebook or folder
* Helper
* Tape measure

Step 1: Take off shoes
Put on your best-fitting pair of pants; then stand with your back against a wall.

Don't wear shoes when you're measuring your inseam.

Step 2: Place notebook between legs
Hold the notebook or folder between your legs at the very top of your inner thighs. Place it so that one edge of the notebook touches the wall.

Step 3: Have partner measure
Have a helper measure the distance from the floor to the top edge of the notebook or folder.

Step 4: Repeat the measurement
Double-check the measurement.

Step 5: Buy pants or bike
Buy a new pair of pants with confidence, knowing that you are getting the perfect fit.

In 1990, Susan Molinari was a hot topic when she became the first woman to wear pants on the U.S. House of Representatives floor.