How to measure yourself for lingerie?

You're ready to treat yourself to that stunning lingerie set, but one question stops you in your tracks: what size should I order?

Between varying brand sizing, different body shapes, and that confusing band size that seems to change with every bra, shopping for lingerie online can feel overwhelming.
Yet knowing your exact measurements is the key to transforming every purchase into a guaranteed success.

No more returns, gaping cups, or uncomfortable panties. In this guide, I'll walk you through taking your measurements like a pro so you can finally wear lingerie that truly flatters your figure.

• 1 Why taking your measurements is essential
• 2 What you'll need
• 3 How to measure your bust
• 4 How to measure your band size
• 5 Determining your cup size
• 6 Measuring your waist
• 7 Measuring your hips
• 8 Common mistakes to avoid
• 9 When and how often to measure
• 10 Adapting your measurements across brands

Why taking your measurements is essential

You might think your lingerie size is set in stone. Spoiler alert: it's not. Our bodies are constantly evolving – weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, pregnancy, breastfeeding, intense workouts... All these factors modify our shape.

Wearing properly fitted lingerie isn't just about aesthetics. It's fundamentally about comfort and health:

• A too-tight bra compresses your ribcage and restricts breathing
• A too-small cup distorts your breast shape and creates unflattering bulges
• Overly snug panties dig into skin and can cause irritation
• Conversely, lingerie that's too large provides zero support

Knowing your exact measurements means treating yourself to lingerie that fits like a glove, enhances your assets, and makes you feel incredibly confident.

What you'll need

No need for professional equipment! Here's what you'll need:

A soft measuring tape This is your essential tool. Skip the rigid tape measure from your toolbox – it won't contour to your body's curves. Your measuring tape should be flexible but not stretchy – if it stretches, your measurements will be off.

A full-length mirror To verify your tape sits horizontally and at the right height, especially around your back.

Something to record with Paper, phone, app... What matters is documenting your measurements with the date. This lets you track how your body changes over time.

A helper (optional but recommended) Some measurements are more accurate with two people, particularly band size. But don't worry – you can absolutely manage alone with a bit of strategic maneuvering!

How to measure your bust

Your bust measurement is taken at the fullest part of your chest, typically at nipple level. This measurement, combined with your band size, determines your cup size.

Step-by-step technique

1. Wear your most comfortable bra Choose your best-fitting one, preferably without underwire, or a bralette. The goal is natural support without excessive compression.

2. Stand straight and tall Back straight, shoulders relaxed, facing the mirror. Breathe normally – don't inflate your chest!

3. Wrap the measuring tape around your bust Position it horizontally at the fullest point of your breasts. Check in the mirror that the tape doesn't ride up your back.

4. Adjust the tension The tape should be snug against your skin without compressing. You should easily fit one finger underneath.

5. Record the measurement Take the measurement at the end of a normal exhale. Note the number in inches or centimeters, without rounding.

Pro tip

Take this measurement three times and calculate the average. Our posture shifts slightly each time, so averaging gives you a more reliable number.

How to measure your band size

Your band size (or underbust) is taken just under your breasts, where your bra band normally sits. This is the number you see in your size (32, 34, 36 in US sizing / 85, 90, 95 in European sizing).

How to proceed

1. Remove your bra This measurement is taken on bare skin for maximum accuracy.

2. Stay perfectly upright Same posture as for bust measurement: standing, back straight, shoulders relaxed.

3. Place the tape under your bust Just below the breast crease, where the bra band naturally rests. The tape must be perfectly horizontal all around your torso.

4. Check for horizontal alignment Very important! In the mirror, make sure the tape doesn't ride up your back. A diagonal measurement will throw everything off.

5. Pull slightly snug The tape should be firm but not tight. You should be able to breathe comfortably. This snug-but-comfortable measurement gives you your true band size.

6. Note the result Take the measurement at the end of a normal exhale.

The extra trick

If you fall between sizes (for example, 33 inches), round to the nearest even number (here, 34). For measurements right in the middle (like 33.5 inches), you might try both sizes depending on the brand.

Determining your cup size

Ah, the infamous cup size! This is probably the most misunderstood element of lingerie sizing. Cup size isn't fixed – a C cup in a 34 band doesn't have the same volume as a C cup in a 38 band.

The simple calculation

Bust measurement - Band measurement = Cup size

The difference between these two measurements determines your cup according to this scale:

• 1 inch difference = Cup AA
• 2 inches = Cup A
• 3 inches = Cup B
• 4 inches = Cup C
• 5 inches = Cup D
• 6 inches = Cup DD/E
• 7 inches = Cup DDD/F

And so on, with approximately 1 inch between each cup size.

Real example

You measure 38 inches around your bust and 34 inches for your band.

• Difference: 38 - 34 = 4 inches
• Your size: 34C

Sister sizes: your backup plan

If you're torn between two sizes, sister sizes are your allies. These are different sizes that offer the same cup volume:

• 34B = 36A = 32C
• 36C = 38B = 34D
• 38D = 40C = 36DD

If a 36C feels tight around the band but the cup fits perfectly, try a 38B. Same cup volume, more room in the band!

Measuring your waist

For high-waisted panties, bodysuits, or certain lingerie pieces, waist measurement is essential.

Where to measure? At the natural waist, the narrowest part of your torso. Generally a few inches above your belly button.

How to proceed?

1. Stand with feet together, stomach relaxed (don't suck in your belly!)
2. Wrap the tape horizontally around your waist
3. The tape should be snug but not tight – you should breathe comfortably
4. Take the measurement at the end of a normal exhale

Little trick: Bend slightly to one side. The natural crease that forms is your true waist!

Measuring your hips

Hip measurement determines the size of your panties, thongs, boyshorts, and swimsuit bottoms.

The right placement At the fullest part of your hips and bottom. Run your hands down your hips from top to bottom – you'll feel the widest point.

The technique

1. Stand with feet together (or very slightly apart if that's more natural)
2. Wrap the tape around your hips at the fullest point
3. Check that the tape is horizontal, especially in back
4. The tape should be snug without compressing
5. Note the measurement

Important note: If you have a V-shaped body (hips narrower than shoulders), don't cheat by tightening the tape. The perfect panty is one that embraces your real curves, not the ones you wish you had!

Common mistakes to avoid

Even with the best intentions, certain errors can skew your measurements.

Wearing the wrong bra to measure

A push-up bra will artificially inflate your bust measurement. Choose a simple, comfortable style for realistic measurements.

Measuring over clothing

A thick sweater adds at least half an inch! Always take measurements on bare skin or in thin undergarments.

Pulling the tape too tight

Want to squeeze into a 34 when you're really a 36? The measuring tape won't lie for long – and your body will painfully remind you. Be honest with your measurements.

Not checking for horizontal alignment

A tape that rides up your back guarantees inaccurate measurements. Use a mirror or ask for help.

Taking measurements at the end of the day after a big meal

Time of day influences your measurements. Opt for morning or midday, away from meals.

Relying solely on old measurements

"I've been a 36B since I was 20!" Maybe so, but your body has evolved. Re-measure regularly.

Forgetting to write down measurements

Your memory will play tricks on you. Write everything down: measurements and date taken.

When and how often to measure

Key moments to re-measure

After significant weight changes Gain or loss of more than 5-10 pounds? Time to check your measurements. Bust and hips are often the first areas affected.

During and after pregnancy Your body undergoes major transformations. Measure yourself each trimester and several times postpartum, especially if breastfeeding.

Following a contraceptive change Birth control pills, hormonal IUD... These hormonal modifications can influence your bust and hip measurements.

If your bras no longer fit properly Straps slipping, underwires digging in, cups gaping? Your body has changed, not your lingerie. Re-measure!

When starting intensive new exercise Weight training, running... Exercise sculpts your silhouette. Check measurements every 3-6 months if you're very active.

Ideal frequency

For most women, twice a year is plenty. Choose easy-to-remember dates: beginning and middle of the year, or with seasonal changes.

If your weight fluctuates significantly or you're experiencing hormonal changes, measure every 3 months.

Adapting your measurements across brands

You know your measurements by heart? Perfect! But beware: not all brands size the same.

Variations between brands

French, Italian, and British lingerie generally follow similar standards. However:

• American brands often use a different sizing system (32, 34, 36 for band sizes)
• Italian brands may run slightly smaller, especially for panties
• Some luxury lingerie brands favor fitted cuts

The importance of size charts

On Luxury Alley, each product page includes a specific size guide. Never rely solely on your measurements – always consult the brand's conversion chart.

Customer reviews: your best ally

Take time to read the comments! Customers often share valuable information: "Runs small, size up" or "Perfect fit, true to chart."

When hesitating between two sizes

You're right between two sizes according to your measurements?

For bras:

• If you want athletic support: choose the smaller size
• If you prioritize everyday comfort: opt for the larger size
• For fine or sleepwear lingerie: the size up will be more comfortable

For panties:

• Stretchy materials (stretch lace, modal): the smaller size will work
• Firm fabrics (satin, silk): go with the larger size

Conclusion: Lingerie that truly fits you

Taking your measurements isn't complicated, but it changes absolutely everything. It's the difference between lingerie that compresses you all day and the kind that makes you feel beautiful, confident, and free.

Keep your measurements updated, save them in your phone, and remember: your body evolves, and that's completely normal. The right size isn't the one that fits a norm or an ideal – it's the one that embraces your curves and makes you feel incredible.

Now that you know how to measure yourself like a pro, all that's left is exploring our collection and finding THE piece that makes you shine. And if you have any doubts, our team is here to guide your choice.