How To Get Your Body Measurements

You may have a good idea what your measurements are, but rather than assume you know, get an accurate measurement. The measurements that you need are your chest, waist, and hips. The process for getting your body measurements is simple. Knowing how to measure waist and hips is common knowledge, but some women do not know exactly where to start / stop the measurement for a more accurate result.

Before You Get Started

Pick up a cloth or plastic soft tape measure. A metal tape measure won't sit close enough to your skin.
Strip down to your underwear or wear tight clothing, just like your stays or corset if you plan to wear historical underpinnings under your garment.

Bust

Place the end of the measuring tape on the front of your chest at the widest point. Going under your arms, wrap the measuring tape around your back, making sure it doesn't twist up. Pull it taut so it's horizontal around your body. Try to pull your arms down over the tape and take the measurement. If you're having trouble with this measurement, ask a friend to help.

Waist

Your natural waist is the smallest part of your waist, usually just above your belly button and under your rib cage. Make sure the tape measure is flat around your body, and then take the measurement in front.

Hips

Determine your hip measurement at the widest point. Wrap the tape around your body, ensuring you go over the widest part of your buttocks, too. Keep the tape horizontal and flat against your body, and then take the measurement in front where the measuring tape meets itself. Check in a mirror to see if the tape measure is flat against you and stand with your legs about 6 inches (15.2 cm) apart.