Measuring Yourself Correctly: A Guide to Finding the Right Fit
Have you ever experienced the frustration of wearing ill-fitting clothes? Whether it’s a dress or a bra, wearing the wrong size can ruin your day. That’s why it’s important to know your exact measurements. In this guide, we will show you how to measure yourself correctly to ensure a perfect fit every time.
Why Measuring Yourself Matters
Before we dive into the measuring process, let’s discuss why it’s important. Sizes can vary significantly between brands and even within the same brand. What fits perfectly in one store may not fit well in another. By knowing your precise measurements, you can easily navigate these differences and shop with confidence.
The Tools You Need
To get started, gather the following tools:
– A flexible measuring tape
– A full-length mirror
– A notepad and pen (or your phone) to record measurements
– A friend (optional, but helpful)
Having these tools on hand will make the process smoother and ensure accuracy.
Measuring Your Bust
Let’s begin with the bust measurement, which is crucial for tops, dresses, and bras.
1. Wear a Non-Padded Bra: To get an accurate measurement, wear a bra that doesn’t add extra volume.
2. Wrap the Measuring Tape Around Your Back: Bring it around to the fullest part of your bust.
3. Keep the Tape Parallel: Make sure the tape is level and snug but not tight.
4. Check in the Mirror: Ensure the tape isn’t twisted.
5. Take the Measurement and Round to the Nearest Whole Number.
Pro Tip: Breathe normally while measuring to get an accurate result.
Measuring Your Underbust
Next, let’s measure the underbust, which is essential for determining your band size in bras.
1. Position the Tape: Place the measuring tape directly under your bust.
2. Keep It Snug: The tape should be tight but comfortable.
3. Ensure Levelness: Check in the mirror that it’s parallel to the floor.
4. Take the Measurement and Round to the Nearest Whole Number.
Pro Tip: The underbust measurement is usually slightly tighter than the bust measurement.
Determining Your Band Size
To find your band size, you’ll need your underbust measurement.
– Even Number: If your underbust measurement is an even number, add four inches.
– Odd Number: If it’s an odd number, add five inches.
For example, if your underbust measurement is 32 inches, your band size is 36. If it’s 33 inches, your band size is 38.
Bra Size Chart
Understanding your bra size is crucial for a comfortable fit. Here’s a simple bra size chart to help you determine your cup size based on the difference between your bust and band measurements:
Difference (in inches) – Cup Size
1 – A
2 – B
3 – C
4 – D
5 – DD
6 – DDD/E
7 – F
8 – G
Using the bra size chart is easier than you think. Let’s go through it step by step:
1. Band Size: Suppose your underbust measurement is 32 inches. Adding four inches gives you a band size of 36.
2. Bust Size: If your bust measurement is 39 inches, the difference is 3 inches.
3. Cup Size: A 3-inch difference corresponds to a C cup.
Measuring Your Waist
A well-fitting waist measurement can greatly impact the overall fit of your outfit. Here’s how to measure it correctly:
1. Find Your Natural Waist: This is usually the narrowest part of your torso.
2. Wrap the Tape Around: Keep it level and snug but not tight.
3. Stand Normally: Don’t suck in or push out your stomach.
4. Take the Measurement and Round to the Nearest Whole Number.
Pro Tip: Your natural waist is often slightly higher than you think, just above the belly button.
Measuring Your Hips
For skirts, pants, and dresses, an accurate hip measurement is essential.
1. Find the Fullest Part of Your Hips: This is typically around your buttocks.
2. Wrap the Tape Around: Keep it level and snug.
3. Check in the Mirror: Ensure the tape is parallel to the floor.
4. Take the Measurement and Round to the Nearest Whole Number.
Pro Tip: Stand with your feet together for the most accurate hip measurement.
Measuring Your Shoulder Width
For tailored tops and jackets, shoulder width is key.
1. Stand up Straight: Relax your shoulders.
2. Measure Across the Back: From one shoulder bone to the other.
3. Ask for Help: A friend can ensure accuracy.
4. Take the Measurement and Round to the Nearest Whole Number.
Pro Tip: Keep your arms relaxed at your sides during the measurement.
