How weight change affects the size

Short answer: Two to three kilos rarely change a size, while five to seven kilos usually do. The change spreads differently across the body, so all three measurements should be taken again before you buy anything new.

The distribution is individual

Some people change most at the waist, others at the chest or hips. A size chart assumes a fixed relationship between measurements, but few bodies follow it. So your size may have changed in one place and not another. Measure again, also for a bamboo bra, where the bust measurement decides.

The base layer notices first

Close fitting items feel a change of a few centimetres, while loose items do not. Underwear, tops and socks sit close to the body, so you feel it right away. A loose sweatshirt, on the other hand, may fit for a long time yet. This also applies to the rib on socks for men and women.

Wait before buying new

Buy only once your weight has been stable for three months, or it will not fit for long. It is tempting to buy straight away, but a changing body changes its measurements again. Use what you have in the meantime, then look at the bamboo sweatshirt for women and the rest.

Take all three measurements again

Chest, waist and hip are the three measurements most charts rely on. Measure all of them, even if you have only noticed a difference in one place. Stand relaxed and keep the tape level and snug without pressing. Write the numbers down and compare them with your old ones.

Not everything needs replacing

A change in weight does not mean the whole wardrobe has to go. Stretchy fabrics can absorb some of it, and loose styles are more forgiving. Start with what sits closest, as that is where you feel the difference most. The rest can often wait until you know your new measurements.

Stretchy fabric gives some leeway

Underwear and tops with stretch can follow the body through smaller changes. That is one reason two to three kilos rarely call for a new size. But stretch has a limit, and an item stretched to its limit every day wears out faster than it otherwise would.

The bra needs extra attention

With a bra, both the band and the cups are affected by weight change, and they do not necessarily change by the same amount. The band can become too loose while the cups still fit, or the other way round. Measure under and over the bust separately and find the size from both.

Use the chart as a checklist

Once you have your new measurements, go through the chart for each type of item you are considering. A size in underwear is not necessarily the same as in a sweatshirt. Check the fit in the description and choose by the measurement that matters most for that item.

Frequently asked questions

How many kilos does it take to change a size

Typically five to seven kilos for an adult. But how it spreads across the body decides whether one measurement or several are affected, so always measure again.

Which measurements change most

Waist and hip for most people. For some the chest changes noticeably too, which is why it is a good idea to take all three measurements again.

Should you keep your old clothes

A few pieces, but not a whole wardrobe. Keep what you wear most, so you have something to put on if your weight changes again.