Hips measurement for women's underwear sizing

Short answer: Your hips measurement and waist measurement are the two numbers that help you most when choosing underwear that sits comfortably. Here is a simple explanation of how the two are used and what to do if they point to different sizes.

What the two measurements tell you

The hips measurement shows how wide the body is at the hips and bottom, and the waist measurement shows how narrow it is at the natural waist. Together they give a picture of your shape. For underwear the hips measurement is usually the most important, but the waist can decide whether the waistband sits comfortably.

The hips measurement in practice

Your hips measurement is taken around the widest part of your hips and bottom, with the tape level, snug but not tight. Measure against the skin or over thin clothes. Write the number down and ideally measure twice. Small differences of a centimetre can mean half a size.

How to measure the waist

The waist measurement is taken at the narrowest part of the torso, typically a couple of centimetres above the navel. Stand tall, breathe normally and place the tape level around your middle. It should be snug, not tight. Do not pull your stomach in, or the measurement becomes misleading and the underwear too tight.

When the two measurements point to different sizes

If you are one size up at the hips and one down at the waist, choose by the measurement that matters most for the garment. For underwear that is usually the hips measurement. Look at bamboo underwear for women and compare the numbers with the information for the style you want to buy.

Stretch and fit

Knitted fabrics stretch, which means underwear can fit over a small range of measurements. Even so, it pays to hit the right size, since too small presses, and too big gives wrinkles and a slipping waistband. The label in the garment may tell you something about how the fabric is built.

Waistband and legs

The waistband should lie flat and must not roll or cut in. The leg openings should sit close without leaving marks. If you feel pressure despite a correct measurement, the style may have a different cut. Try the next size or another style, and note the difference for next time.

Use the measurements for other clothes

Once you have your measurements, you can use them for other clothes too. Compare them with the information for, for example, bamboo T-shirts for women, where bust and waist are often more important than hips. Write the measurements down together, so you have them to hand when you order.

Socks and small items

Small items such as bamboo socks follow other measurements, namely shoe size. Keep them separate from your body measurements, so you do not mix up the numbers. A small chart of your measurements and shoe size makes ordering easy without guessing.

Frequently asked questions

Which measurement matters most for underwear?

Usually the hips measurement, because it decides how knickers and underwear sit. The waist measurement helps you judge the waistband.

Should I measure myself again?

Yes, measure again when you order something new, since bodies change over time. Write the measurements down so you have them to hand.

What if my hips and waist point to different sizes?

Choose by the measurement that matters most for the garment, usually the hips for underwear. If you are unsure, ask the shop.