How to Measure

Bust

To measure your bust, start by preparing properly to ensure accuracy. Wear a comfortable, well-fitting bra, as this will shape your bust and provide a more reliable measurement than measuring without one. Stand up straight with your arms relaxed naturally at your sides. Take a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around the fullest part of your bust—this is typically across the chest at the level of your nipples, but it may vary slightly depending on your body shape. Make sure the tape is parallel to the floor all the way around your body and fits snugly against your skin without digging in or feeling constrictive. Avoid pulling it too tight, as this can distort the measurement. Once the tape is in place, take note of the measurement in either inches or centimeters, depending on your preference or the system used by the clothing brand.

Waist

For the waist measurement, the original guide suggests measuring 42cm (16.5 inches) down from the nape of the neck, which may apply to specific garments like dresses or jumpsuits. However, for a more universally applicable approach, it’s better to measure at your natural waistline. To find this, stand straight and bend slightly to one side—the crease that forms on your torso marks your natural waistline, typically the narrowest part, located just above your belly button. Once you’ve identified this spot, wrap the measuring tape around your waist, keeping it level with the floor and snug against your body. Don’t suck in your stomach or hold your breath, as this can lead to an inaccurate, smaller measurement. If you’re following the original instruction for a specific purpose (e.g., a garment with a defined waist point), start at the nape of your neck (the bony bump at the base of your neck) and measure straight down 42cm (16.5 inches) along your front, then wrap the tape horizontally around your body at that point. Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.

Hips

To measure your hips, begin by standing with your feet together to keep your posture even. The original guide instructs measuring 20cm (8 inches) down from your waistline, which can be a helpful starting point, but for a general measurement, you’ll want to focus on the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. This is usually around 20cm (8 inches) below your natural waistline, though it varies depending on your body proportions. To locate this area, feel for the widest part of your lower body, typically around the level of your buttocks. Wrap the measuring tape around this point, ensuring it stays level all the way around and sits snugly against your skin without being overly tight or loose. Check that the tape isn’t sliding up or down as you measure. Note the measurement in inches or centimeters, depending on what you need.

Leg (Inseam)

The leg measurement here refers to the inseam, which is key for determining the length of pants or similar garments. Start by standing straight with your feet slightly apart, about shoulder-width, to maintain a natural stance. Using a flexible measuring tape, measure from the top of your inside leg—right at the crotch, where your inner thighs meet—straight down to the floor. Hold the tape taut but not stretched, following the line of your leg. If you plan to wear the garment with heels, account for this by either wearing the heels during the measurement or adding their height (e.g., 2-3 inches or 5-7 cm, depending on the heel) to the total. For example, if your inseam to the floor is 30 inches and your heels are 2 inches high, your adjusted inseam would be 32 inches. Once you have your measurement, compare it to the inseam length listed for the product to ensure the fit will work for you. Record the result in inches or centimeters.

General Tips for Accurate Measurements

• Tools: Always use a flexible measuring tape (like the kind used for sewing) rather than a rigid ruler, as it conforms to your body’s curves.
• Assistance: If possible, have a friend or family member help you. They can ensure the tape stays level and positioned correctly, especially for hard-to-reach areas like the hips or bust.
• Clothing: Take measurements over thin clothing (e.g., a fitted t-shirt or leggings) or undergarments to avoid extra bulk, but never over thick layers like sweaters or jeans.
• Posture: Stand naturally with relaxed shoulders and even weight on both feet—don’t slouch or exaggerate your posture.
• Consistency: Use the same unit of measurement (inches or centimeters) for all parts to match the sizing system of the clothing you’re buying.