Navigating the world of online shopping can be a breeze, but only if you're armed with your accurate measurements. Relying solely on size labels can lead to disappointment, as sizing varies drastically between brands and even individual garments. Knowing your precise bust, waist, hip, and inseam measurements allows you to compare them directly to a retailer's size chart, ensuring a better fit. This reduces the frustration of receiving ill-fitting clothing, saves you the hassle of returns, and ultimately boosts your confidence in making online purchases.
With that being said there is a lack of universal sizing across the fashion industry. Every brand caters to their specific target audience which influences their sizing. For example, a fashion brand that focuses on a petite audience will have different sizing than one that targets plus size or athletic consumers. A brand might also design clothes with a "slim fit" or "loose fit" which will also affect how the garment measures.
It is important to understand the information that is given in the product description. Pay attention to the fabric and how the garment is designed. Stretchy knits are going to fit very differently than rigid denim and a flowing skirt will drape differently than a tailored pencil skirt. Refer to the size chart that is given with specific measurements rather than relying on the size label S, M, L. Read customer reviews and watch the videos in the product gallery as it may explain the fit or give a sizing reference to help with your decision. It is necessary that you don't assume that your usual size will fit consistently.
How To Take Your Measurements
There are five general measurements that will typically be identified: bust, waist, hips, inseam and rise. You will need a flexible measuring tape and a full length mirror is helpful.
How to Measure:
- Bust:Stand straight with your arms relaxed at your sides.Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, across your nipples.Ensure the tape is level all the way around your back.Don't pull the tape too tight; it should be snug but not digging into your skin.If you will be wearing a bra with the garment it may be helpful to wear a bra for measurements if it is drastically different measurements with the bra on and off.
- Waist:Find your natural waistline, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso.It's usually located just above your belly button and below your ribcage.Wrap the measuring tape around your natural waistline.Again, keep the tape level and snug, but not too tight.
- Hips:Stand with your feet together.Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.Make sure the tape is level and parallel to the floor.
- Inseam:This measurement is the distance from your crotch to the bottom of your leg.The easiest way to measure your inseam is to:Take a pair of pants that fit you well.Lay them flat on a surface.Measure from the crotch seam down to the hem of the leg.Alternatively, you can have someone help you measure from your crotch down to your ankle while you stand straight.
- Rise:The rise is the measurement from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband of your pants.If this measurement is provided measure from your crotch up to your waist to see where the garment will rest on your torso.
Important Tips:
- Stand up straight and breathe normally when taking measurements.
- Use a flexible measuring tape that conforms to your body.
- Measure directly on your skin, not over bulky clothing.
- Double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy.
By following these instructions, you can accurately measure your body and make more informed online shopping decisions.