Hip measurement for underwear, where on the body do you measure

Short answer: You take the hip measurement at the widest point around hips and bottom, with your feet together and the tape level all the way round. It is the measurement most often used for knickers. Here is how to do it and what to do if you are between two sizes.

Where on the body you measure the hips

The hip measurement is taken at the widest point around the hips and bottom, often some way below the waist. Stand with your feet together and relax your stomach, so you get an honest number. It is not where the waistband of your trousers sits, so use a mirror to find the widest point.

How to hold the tape

Run the tape level all the way round, so it lies flat against the body without squeezing. You should be able to fit a finger under it. If you are alone, check in the mirror that the tape does not hang crooked at the back, because that gives a wrong, too high or too low number.

Measure on bare skin or thin clothes

Measure directly on the skin or over thin underwear, so no thick fabric gets in between. Thick trousers or sweaters can give a measurement that is too large. Take two measurements and use the lower one if you are unsure, and write the number down so you can use it again.

From measurement to underwear size

Once you have your measurement, look it up in the size chart for the exact model you want to buy, because it can vary from brand to brand. Look at bamboo underwear for women and use the chart for the individual model instead of guessing. That makes the choice far more reliable.

Between two sizes

If your measurement falls between two sizes, think about how you want the knickers to sit. If you prefer a calm fit without pressure, choose the larger. If you want a closer fit, choose the smaller. It is a personal choice, and both can be right.

Knickers and hip measurement

Knickers sit close to the hips and bottom, so the hip measurement is decisive. Look at bamboo knickers if you want soft knickers, and remember that the fit also depends on cut and rise. Check that the waistband and leg opening do not dig in when you sit down.

Tops and hips do not always go together

You can have different sizes on top and bottom, and that is completely normal. The upper body is measured at the chest, and you choose the top by that measurement. Look at bamboo tops for women and choose the size by your bust measurement, not by what you wear in knickers.

Measure again when your body changes

Hips change over time, and that is completely normal. Measure again now and then, especially if your clothes suddenly fit differently. An up to date measurement makes it easier to buy right the first time and saves you returns, and the number takes a minute to find.

Frequently asked questions

Where do I measure my hips?

Measure at the widest point around the hips and bottom, with your feet together and the tape level. It is usually some way below the waist.

What if I am between two sizes?

If you want a calm fit without pressure, choose the larger. If you prefer a closer fit, choose the smaller. Both can be right.

Should I measure directly on the skin?

That is best, or over thin underwear. Thick trousers or sweaters can give a measurement that is too large. Take two measurements and use the lower one.