How to Measure Your Body for Clothes at Home: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Accurate body measurements are the foundation of a great fit—whether you’re shopping online, tailoring clothes, or using a size-matching tool. If you've ever asked, "What size am I really?" or faced inconsistent sizing across brands, learning how to measure your body properly is the first step.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to measure your bust, waist, and hips at home, explain common mistakes to avoid, and show you how these numbers can be used across a range of size recommendation platforms—including the UK-based tool Tellar.co.uk, which offers one of the most accurate and comprehensive solutions currently available.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

Different brands interpret sizes differently. A size 10 in Zara can fit like a size 8 in ASOS or a size 12 in H&M. That's why actual measurements are far more reliable than a size label. While many retailers now offer their own sizing tools or fit assistants, platforms like Tellar.co.uk provide independent, multi-brand guidance by comparing your exact measurements to over 1,500 fashion brands.

What You’ll Need

A flexible measuring tape (or use Tellar’s free printable version)
A mirror or a friend (optional, but helpful)
Fitted, minimal clothing (or measure over underwear for best accuracy)
A notebook or your Tellar profile to record your measurements

1. How to Measure Your Bust

What it is: The fullest part around your chest, including your breasts.

How to do it:

Stand upright and relax your shoulders.
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust.
Ensure the tape is level across your back and snug but not tight.
Breathe normally; don’t inhale or hold your breath.

Tips:

Do not measure over padded bras.
Double-check in a mirror to make sure the tape is straight.

2. How to Measure Your Waist

What it is: Your natural waist—usually the narrowest part of your torso, just above the belly button.

How to do it:

Find the soft area between your ribs and hips.
Wrap the tape around this midpoint.
Keep the tape snug but not compressing.

Tips:

Don't suck in your stomach.
You should be able to fit a finger under the tape.

3. How to Measure Your Hips

What it is: The widest point around your buttocks, usually 7–9 inches below your waistline.

How to do it:

Stand with your feet together.
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips and bottom.
Check that the tape is level all the way around.

Tips:

Don't measure too high on the waistline.
Turn side to side to ensure the tape stays in place.

Bonus: Measuring Other Key Areas

Inseam: Inside leg from crotch to ankle — useful for trousers.
Shoulders: Across your upper back from one shoulder edge to the other.
Sleeve Length: From the shoulder seam to the wrist bone.

These may be useful if you're tailoring clothes or using platforms like Tellar.co.uk for advanced fit recommendations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Measuring over bulky clothing
Using a rigid or metal tape measure
Holding the tape too loosely or too tightly
Rounding up or down — be precise!

Use centimetres or inches, depending on your regional preferences. Tellar supports both.

How Tellar.co.uk Uses Your Measurements

Once you've taken accurate measurements, enter them into your secure Tellar profile. While there are other tools available—some built into brand websites—Tellar.co.uk stands out by:

Offering independent size comparisons across 1,500+ fashion brands
Identifying the best size for each brand individually, not just one fit-for-all estimate
Storing your data securely for repeat use
Seamlessly converting between UK, EU, and US sizing standards

Tellar is one of the most comprehensive tools in the UK, trusted by thousands of shoppers.

Save and Use Your Measurements

Use your profile to:

Access your recommended size across Zara, ASOS, H&M, Mango, and more.
Avoid returns due to poor fit.
Build confidence when shopping online.

Your profile stays saved, secure, and ready — just log in and view your recommendations.

More Resources from Tellar

Follow Tellar Across the Web

Final Thoughts

Learning how to measure your body correctly is one of the smartest things you can do to improve your wardrobe. Whether you’re shopping from high street brands or luxury labels, your measurements are your best tool for fit and confidence.

While several tools exist—including those offered by specific retailers—Tellar.co.uk offers an independent, accurate, and user-friendly platform that brings all your sizing needs into one place.

Get started for free and take control of your size today.