A Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Waist, Hips, and Bust for Clothing

Whether you’re purchasing a new pair of jeans, an elegant dress, or a simple t-shirt, having accurate measurements guarantees a flawless fit. For online shopping, this translates to fewer returns (and let’s face it, less wasted money when you miss the return window). Knowing your body measurements also streamlines in-store shopping, allowing you to shop confidently or reduce time spent in fitting rooms. Luckily, measuring your waist, hips, and bust for clothing is quick and easy.

SEE ALSO: How to Measure Your Bra Size at Home

Expert Tips and Essentials for Accurate Measurements 

To begin, ensure you have these essential items ready: 

• Flexible measuring tape
• Pencil 
• Paper 
• A helper (if available) 

When measuring, avoid pulling the tape too tight or leaving it too loose. “A single finger’s space under the tape is ideal,” advises Amber Gaskins, bridal director at Kleinfeld Bridal. Keep the tape parallel to the ground and ensure it’s level. Wrap it around the target area and record the measurement. 

Enlisting a friend can improve measurement accuracy. If assistance isn’t available, use a mirror to verify the tape’s alignment. After recording your measurements, consult the brand’s size chart for the best fit, as sizing can differ between brands and garments. 

A Guide to Measuring Your Waist Accurately 

You’ll need to take two waist measurements: your natural waist (the narrowest part) and your low waist (situated just above your hips). 

Natural Waist

“To find your natural waist, measure around the smallest part. If unsure, bend sideways like a teapot,” suggests Gaskins. “The crease that forms indicates the correct spot.” This measurement is essential for most jeans, pants, dresses, and skirts. 

Low Waist

Your low waist is located a few inches below your natural waist, precisely where your hip bones begin. This measurement is particularly useful for low-rise pants and skirts. 

A Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Hips

To measure your hips accurately, identify the widest part of your hips. Ensure your feet are together, as spreading them can lead to an inaccurate measurement. “Check in the mirror to confirm the measuring tape is parallel to the ground, ensuring you capture the fullest part of your hips,” advises Janice Marks, vice president of design at Silver Jeans Co. 

Hip measurements are often necessary for custom-made clothing, though many ready-to-wear items such as pants, skirts, dresses, and swimwear may also include this measurement in their sizing charts.  

How to Measure Your Bust Accurately 

Before measuring your bust, wear a comfortable, everyday bra. Identify the fullest part of your chest, as Gaskins recommends, and measure there. This measurement is essential for shirts, dresses, and swimwear.

(Note: Measuring your bust for clothing like t-shirts and dresses differs from measuring for a bra. The latter involves two measurements: one for chest circumference and another for cup size.)

A Guide to Measuring Your Inseam

While you have the measuring tape handy, consider taking this additional measurement. It’s particularly useful for pants and skirts to ensure the correct length. Measure from your crotch down the inner leg to the bottom of your ankle. For shorts or shorter skirts, measure from the crotch to the desired length along the inner leg.