How to Measure Your Body for Clothing
Accurate body measurements are essential for finding the right clothing size, especially when shopping online or from international brands. Follow this guide to measure yourself at home.
What You'll Need
- A flexible measuring tape (cloth or plastic)
- A mirror (helpful but optional)
- Someone to help (for more accurate results)
- Fitted clothing or underwear
Chest / Bust Measurement
This measurement is used for tops, shirts, jackets, and dresses.
Position the Tape
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest/bust. For women, this is typically across the nipple line. For men, measure across the widest part of the chest.
Keep It Level
Make sure the tape is parallel to the floor all the way around. It should pass under your armpits and across your shoulder blades in the back.
Measure Relaxed
Stand naturally with arms at your sides. Don't puff out your chest or hold your breath. The tape should be snug but not tight — you should be able to fit one finger underneath.
Waist Measurement
This measurement is used for pants, skirts, shorts, and fitted dresses.
Find Your Natural Waist
Your natural waist is the narrowest part of your torso, usually about 2-3 cm above your belly button. Bend to the side — the crease that forms is your natural waistline.
Wrap the Tape
Wrap the measuring tape around your natural waist. Keep it parallel to the floor and snug against your skin without compressing it.
Breathe Normally
Don't suck in your stomach or push it out. Take a normal breath and measure at the end of a natural exhale.
Hips Measurement
This measurement is used for pants, skirts, shorts, and dresses.
Find the Widest Point
Stand with feet together. The hip measurement is taken at the widest part of your hips and buttocks, usually about 18-23 cm below your natural waist.
Wrap the Tape
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips. Keep it parallel to the floor. The tape should pass over the widest part of your buttocks.
Check the Position
Use a mirror or ask someone to verify the tape is level all the way around. It's easy for the tape to dip in the back.
Tips for Accurate Measurement
- Wear minimal clothing — Measure over underwear or thin, fitted clothing. Bulky clothes will add extra centimeters.
- Stand straight — Good posture ensures accurate measurements. Don't slouch or lean.
- Keep the tape level — A tilted tape will give you a larger measurement than your actual size.
- Don't pull too tight — The tape should be snug but comfortable. You should be able to slide a finger underneath.
- Measure twice — Take each measurement at least twice to ensure consistency.
Converting Your Measurements
Once you have your measurements in centimeters, you can use our conversion charts to find your size in different systems:
Remember: Sizes vary by brand. When in doubt, check the specific brand's size chart or order multiple sizes when shopping online.
Common Measurements Reference
Women's Clothing
| Size | Bust (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hips (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS (US 0-2) | 78-83 | 60-65 | 85-90 |
| S (US 4-6) | 84-89 | 66-71 | 91-96 |
| M (US 8-10) | 90-95 | 72-77 | 97-102 |
| L (US 12-14) | 96-102 | 78-85 | 103-110 |
| XL (US 16-18) | 103-110 | 86-94 | 111-118 |
Men's Clothing
| Size | Chest (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hips (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S (US 34-36) | 86-91 | 71-76 | 86-91 |
| M (US 38-40) | 96-101 | 81-86 | 96-101 |
| L (US 42-44) | 106-111 | 91-96 | 106-111 |
| XL (US 46-48) | 116-121 | 101-106 | 116-121 |
| XXL (US 50-52) | 126-131 | 111-116 | 126-131 |