Knicker size in figures

Short answer: Panties are chosen by hip measurement, not waist measurement. The hips are the widest point, and that is where the fabric has to pass when you put them on. When the size is right, the elastic lies flat all the way round.

The hips are the widest point

When you put on a pair of panties, they have to pass the widest point of the lower body before they settle. That is why hip measurement decides the size. Measure around the widest point over the bottom with a soft tape, and find the number in the size guide. You get a size that goes on easily and fits. See bamboo underwear for women.

How to measure

Stand straight with your feet together and let your arms hang. Place the tape around the hips where you are widest, usually over the bottom. The tape should lie level all the way round, also at the back, and must not pull tight. Use a mirror to check it has not slipped. Measure on bare skin or over thin underwear.

The waist does not set the size

A narrow waist can sit above wide hips, and the hips decide. If you choose by waist, you risk a size that feels tight on its way over the hips, even if the waistband sits fine afterwards. Waist measurement is useful for other garments, but for panties it is the hip measurement you need.

The elastic should lie flat

When the panties are on, the elastic should lie flat against the skin all the way round. If the waistband cuts into the skin, the size is too small. The same goes for the leg edges: they should follow the body without pressing. Elastic that lies flat keeps the panties in place without being felt through the day.

Signs they are too big

If the panties slide down or the fabric folds at the back, the size is too big. It can also show as leg edges that stand away from the body or wrinkle. Panties that are too big often do not stay put when you move, and that is felt as much as a pair that is too small. Try the smaller size.

Between two sizes

If your hip measurement falls between two sizes, the fabric decides. Panties usually have stretch, so the smaller one is often right, since the fabric gives the last bit. If the elastic still leaves marks, that is a sign the larger size suits you better.

A different measurement for tops

Hip measurement is only for panties. If you are also sizing a top, chest measurement is what counts. Measure each separately and choose the size by the measurement that belongs to the garment. It is quite normal to wear different sizes on top and below. See bamboo tops for women.

Wash so the elastic lasts

Elastic lasts longest when it avoids too much heat. Wash panties at a low temperature and let them dry hanging. Do not wring them hard. That way the elastic keeps lying flat, and the size fits just as well after many washes. Socks can go in the same machine. See socks for women.

Frequently asked questions

Which measurement is used for panties

Hip measurement. Measure around the widest point over the bottom with a soft tape and find that number in the size guide. The tape should lie level all the way round.

Why not the waist

Because the fabric has to pass the hips when you put the panties on. A narrow waist does not change that, and a size too small feels tight at the hips first.

How do you know the size fits

The elastic lies flat all the way round without leaving a mark. If it cuts into the skin, the size is too small, and if it slides down, it is too big.