How tight the tape measure should sit when you measure yourself

Short answer: The tape measure should rest against your body without pressing into the skin. You should be able to breathe calmly and just slide a finger under the tape. A tape that is too tight gives a measurement that is too small, and so a size that ends up too snug.

Snug, but not squeezing

Think of the tape as a light hug. It lies flat against your body without creating folds in the skin or leaving a mark. If you can see flesh bulging on both sides of the tape, it has been pulled too hard. Relax your shoulders and only tighten the tape at the very end.

Keep the tape level

A tape that slopes gives a longer measurement than your body really has. Stand in front of a mirror and check that the tape runs parallel to the floor all the way around. It is easy to forget at the back, where you cannot see it. Ask someone to look along with you so the number is right.

Stand tall and breathe normally

Many people hold their breath or pull in their stomach while measuring without noticing. That gives a smaller number that does not fit you in daily life. Stand relaxed with your feet slightly apart, breathe out as you normally do, and read the number in the middle of the breath out.

Measure several times and write it down

Measure two or three times and write each number down straight away. If they are nearly the same, you can trust them. If they differ a lot, the tape probably did not sit the same way each time. Use the number that appears most often, and note where on the body you measured so nothing gets mixed up.

Compare with the size chart

Once you have your measurement, hold it up against the size chart on the product page. The number is not a verdict, but a good starting point. When you browse the range for women, you will see that each model has its own chart, which you can read through in your own time.

If you fall between two sizes

If your measurement falls between two sizes, think about how you want the garment to fit. If you like it close to the body, pick the smaller one. If you want more room, take the next. Soft fabrics with some stretch forgive more than stiff ones, so read the product description.

Learn from what others choose

It can help to see what other people choose. Among the bestsellers for women you get a feel for which models many people come back to, and you can look through reviews for comments on fit. Remember that bodies differ, so use their words as support, not as the answer for your own size.

Measure again when life changes

Bodies change over time, and a measurement from two years ago may not fit today. Measure again when you buy something new, especially after a change in weight, training or daily routine. It takes a few minutes. Items such as socks for women usually leave more room in the fit than close fitting tops.

Frequently asked questions

Should I measure snugly or with some air under the tape?

The tape should lie snug without pressing. You should be able to slide a finger underneath, but there should be no gap that lets it hang loose. Relax, and read the number in the middle of a calm breath out.

Can I use a piece of string instead of a tape measure?

Yes, if you have no tape measure. Wrap the string around your body the same way, mark where it meets, and then measure the string against a ruler or folding rule.

How often should I measure again?

It is worth measuring again whenever you buy something new, or if you feel your body has changed. A new measurement takes a few minutes and may save you an exchange.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.