Taljemål

Taljemål is the Danish term for waist measurement, referring to the circumference around the midsection of the body. The word combines talje (waist) and mål (measurement). It is used in clothing, fashion, and health contexts to describe the width of the torso at the level of the natural waist or the point designated by a pattern or size chart.

In tailoring and fashion, taljemål is a core dimension for determining fit and sizing. Garment patterns, size guides, and custom measurements often list taljemål alongside other body measurements such as bust and hip. Accurate taljemål helps ensure that clothing sits properly at the waist and drapes correctly over the abdomen.

Measuring taljemål properly involves using a flexible tape measure. The person stands upright with feet together and the abdomen relaxed. The tape should be placed around the natural waistline, typically above the belly button and below the rib cage, and kept parallel to the floor. The tape should be snug without compressing the skin, and the measurement should be taken at the end of a normal exhale. Record the measurement in centimeters or inches, noting the exact point used for the measurement for consistency.

Beyond fashion, waist circumference is used as an indicator in health contexts for assessing abdominal obesity and related metabolic risk. Thresholds vary by population and guideline, but greater taljemål often correlates with higher risk. It is important to follow region-specific recommendations when interpreting measurements in a health setting.

See also: waist, body measurement, clothing sizing, pattern making.