Where is the waist, and what do high and low rise mean

Short answer: Where is the waist? It is the narrowest part of the upper body, usually just above the navel. The waistband of knickers is called high if it sits at or above the waist, mid if it sits around the navel, and low if it sits on the hip. Here is a guide to the three terms and how they affect fit.

Where is the waist and how to find it

Where is the waist? Stand relaxed and bend sideways. Where the body folds is your natural waist. It is usually the narrowest point between the ribs and the hip, and that is exactly where you place the tape measure if you want to know your waist measurement.

What high rise means

A high rise sits at or just above your waist and covers the stomach and lower back. It gives calm around the stomach and stays in place when you move. Many choose it because it does not cut into the hip and feels secure under clothes.

What mid rise means

A mid rise sits around the navel, between the waist and the hip. It covers the lower abdomen and is one of the most common cuts in everyday underwear. If you do not know what to choose, a mid rise is often a natural place to start.

What low rise means

A low rise sits on the hip, well below the navel. It is used under trousers that sit low themselves, so the edge does not show above the waistband. It covers less of the stomach and suits you if you prefer a light feel around the hips.

How to choose the rise for your body

Your body shape decides where a waistband sits best. If you have a short torso, a high rise can feel like a lot of fabric, while a long torso may suit it well. Try different heights in bamboo knickers and notice where the waistband is calmest.

Rise and your clothes

Think about the trousers and skirts you wear most. If your trousers sit high, a high rise suits best, and if they sit low, the knickers should follow. Choose the rise to suit your clothes, so the edge neither shows nor rolls.

Size and rise go together

Measure both waist and hip and follow the size chart. A high rise needs the waist measurement to fit, while a low rise depends mostly on the hip measurement. If you choose the wrong size, the waistband can roll or cut in whatever the height.

How to check the waistband sits right

Put the knickers on, sit down and bend forward. The waistband should lie flat without pressing or folding. If it does not fit, swap to another height or size, and also look at bamboo T-shirts for women and socks for women for a soft base.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the waist on the body?

The waist is the narrowest point between the ribs and the hip, usually just above the navel. Bend sideways and find where the body folds. That is where you take your waist measurement.

What is the difference between high and low rise?

A high rise sits at or above the waist and covers the stomach, while a low rise sits on the hip, well below the navel. A mid rise sits around the navel.

Which rise should I choose?

It depends on your body and your clothes. Try different heights and notice where the waistband sits calmest. Go by the trousers you wear most.