Short answer: a typical 3-piece unstitched suit has about 2.5 to 3 m for the shirt, about 2.5 m for the trouser or shalwar and about 2.25 to 2.5 m for the dupatta. That is enough for a regular-length shirt with full sleeves and a standard trouser for most sizes. Poshak E Noor lawn suits have about 2.75 m, 2.5 m and 2.35 m; khaddar suits have about 2.85 m, 2.5 m and 2.35 m.
What each piece is enough for
| Piece | Typical amount | Usually enough for |
|---|---|---|
| Shirt | 2.5 to 3 m | A straight or A-line shirt of regular length with full or three-quarter sleeves |
| Trouser | about 2.5 m | A straight trouser, cigarette pants or a regular shalwar |
| Dupatta | 2.25 to 2.5 m | Ready to use; only the edges may need finishing |
Very long shirts, wide flared shirts, or a very full shalwar for larger sizes may need extra fabric. Ask your tailor before cutting if you plan one of those styles.
What to tell your tailor
- Measurements: give a well-fitting old suit as a sample, or have fresh measurements taken.
- Shirt length and cut: straight, A-line or kurti length.
- Neckline: round, V-neck, boat neck or a placket with buttons.
- Sleeves: full, three-quarter or short, and whether to use the printed border on the cuffs.
- Print placement: where the main motif or border should sit on the front of the shirt.
- Lining: useful for light lawn if the fabric feels sheer; usually not needed for khaddar.
Shrinkage tip
Cotton-type fabrics like lawn and khaddar can shrink a little in the first wash. Many tailors recommend soaking or washing the fabric once before cutting, especially for a close fit.
Shop suits with full fabric amounts listed
Every Poshak E Noor product page lists the exact fabric amounts. Shop lawn or shop khaddar.
Frequently asked questions
How many metres of fabric are needed for a ladies shirt?
Usually 2.5 to 3 m for a regular-length shirt with sleeves. Long or very flared shirts and larger sizes may need more.
Is 2.5 metres enough for a trouser or shalwar?
About 2.5 m is enough for a straight trouser or a regular shalwar for most sizes. A very full shalwar may need more.
Should unstitched fabric be washed before stitching?
Many tailors recommend soaking or washing lawn and khaddar once before cutting to allow for shrinkage.
Does a lawn shirt need lining?
Only if the fabric feels sheer to you. Many lawn shirts are worn without lining; khaddar usually does not need it.