Step-by-Step Guide

How to Measure Your Body

Accurate measurements are the foundation of every result on this site. This guide explains exactly how to measure bust, waist, hips, shoulders, height, and weight so your body type and body shape results are reliable. Includes common mistakes to avoid and an inches↔centimetres conversion table.

Best for: anyone using any calculator on this site
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What You Need

  • Soft tailoring tape — not a stiff metal hardware tape.
  • A mirror or a helper for the most accurate readings.
  • Form-fitting clothing or measure directly against the skin.
  • A pen and paper (or notes app) to record each measurement.

Step-by-Step Measurements

Bust / Chest

Wrap the tape around the fullest part of the chest, parallel to the floor. Breathe normally; do not pull the tape tight. Women: wear a non-padded bra or none. Padded bras add volume and skew results.

Waist

Stand relaxed. Find the narrowest point of the torso (usually 1–2 inches above the navel). Tip: bend gently to one side — the natural waist is where the crease forms.

Hips

Feet together. Wrap the tape around the widest part of the hips and buttocks, usually 7–9 inches below the natural waist. Keep the tape level.

Shoulders

For the male body type calculator. Stand naturally relaxed. Have someone measure across the upper back from outer point to outer point.

Height

Stand barefoot, heels together, against a wall. Look straight ahead. Mark where a flat object on your head meets the wall; measure from the floor.

Weight

Use the same scales each time, ideally first thing in the morning. Wear consistent clothing for repeatability.

Accuracy Tips

  • Take measurements in the morning, before large meals.
  • Measure each circumference twice and average if they differ.
  • Use the same unit system across all measurements.
  • Stand straight but relaxed — no deliberate posing.
  • Re-measure every 4–6 weeks if tracking change.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Tape too tight or too loose. Snug, not compressing the skin.
  • Tape not level. Especially around the back at bust and hips.
  • Wrong waist position. Measuring at the navel rather than the true narrowest point.
  • Padded bra. Adds bust volume and shifts the result.
  • Mixing units. Cm and inches in the same calculation will be wrong.
  • Holding breath or sucking in. Stand relaxed; breathe normally.

Inches ↔ Centimetres Conversion

InchesCentimetres
2461.0
2871.1
3076.2
3281.3
3486.4
3691.4
3896.5
40101.6
42106.7
44111.8
46116.8
48121.9

Conversion: 1 inch = 2.54 cm. You do not need to convert when using our calculators — just keep all values in the same unit.

Measurement FAQs

Do I need a special tape?
Use a soft tailoring tape. A metal hardware tape will not wrap around your body cleanly.
With or without clothing?
Form-fitting clothing or directly on the skin. Bulky clothes add volume and skew measurements.
How often should I re-measure?
Every 4–8 weeks if tracking change.
Why do bust measurements vary?
Bust changes with breathing, posture, and bra. Measure relaxed, same time of day, same bra.
Can I measure myself solo?
Yes for bust, waist, hips, and height. Shoulders are easier with help.

Ready to Calculate?

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