When the body has changed over a year

Short answer: Measure yourself again instead of guessing from old sizes. A year can shift your bust and waist by several centimetres without your weight changing much, and you notice it first in the clothes that sit closest to the body.

Old numbers lead to wrong purchases

Most people remember the size they used to wear and keep buying it for years. But the body changes with age, exercise, work and daily life, and the number in your head is not always right. Measure with a tape and see what the numbers say, for example when browsing the most popular Copenhagen Bamboo styles.

Clothes that do not fit do not get worn

A garment that pulls or hangs ends up at the back of the wardrobe, whatever it cost. You put it on once, notice it does not sit right and put it back. Replace it with something that fits your body as it is now, such as a women's bamboo sweatshirt you can wear all day.

The base layer notices first

Underwear and socks are where a change shows first, because they sit close to the skin. A waistband that suddenly digs in or briefs that ride up are often the first sign. Start with the base layer when adjusting your wardrobe, and look at bamboo panties by your current measurements rather than your old size.

How to measure properly

Measure in the morning in thin underwear. Take your bust at the fullest part, your waist at the narrowest point and your hips at the widest part. Keep the tape level and evenly snug all the way round. Write the numbers down so you can compare next time and see how they have moved.

Use the size guide every time

Sizes can vary between brands and styles, so the number that fitted one sweater may not suit another. Compare your measurements with the size guide for the specific style. If you fall between two sizes, choose based on whether you prefer a closer or a looser fit.

Changes are completely normal

Your body is not the same from year to year, and that is not a problem to solve. It can change after a busy period, a new sport, a pregnancy or simply with time. What matters is that your clothes fit the body you have today, so you feel comfortable all day.

Sort the wardrobe calmly

Go through your wardrobe once you have your new measurements. Set aside what does not fit instead of forcing it on. If unsure, keep it for a few months and see if you miss it. Anything you have not touched in that time can be passed on or sold while it still looks good.

Buy a little at a time

You do not need to replace everything at once. Start with what you wear every day and build on it once you know what fits well. Soft fabrics with a little stretch are often easier to get right because they follow the body. Wash them at a low temperature so they keep their shape.

Frequently asked questions

How often should you measure yourself

Once a year, or when something starts to fit differently. Write the numbers down so you can compare with last time.

Which measurements matter most

Bust, waist and hips. With those three numbers you can find the right size in most size guides.

What do you do with clothes that do not fit

Pass them on or sell them while they are still in good condition, so someone else gets to wear them.