How to Measure Yourself for the Perfect Swimsuit Fit

Finding swimwear that fits perfectly online requires accurate body measurements and an understanding of how to interpret size charts. Unlike everyday clothing, swimwear needs to fit precisely; too loose and it shifts during movement, too tight and it becomes uncomfortable and unflattering. This guide walks you through the measuring process step by step.

Swimwear sizing varies significantly between brands, which is why relying on your usual dress size often leads to disappointment. A size 12 from one manufacturer might fit completely differently from another brand's size 12. Taking your measurements and comparing them to specific brand size charts gives you the best chance of finding your perfect fit the first time.

What You'll Need

Before you begin, gather a few simple tools to ensure accurate measurements:

• A flexible measuring tape (fabric or plastic, not metal)
• A mirror to help ensure the tape sits level
• A pen and paper to record your measurements
• Well-fitting, non-padded undergarments or no undergarments

Essential Measurements

Bust Measurement

Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, typically at nipple level. Keep the tape parallel to the floor all the way around, including across your back. The tape should be snug but not compressing your bust. Breathe normally and record the measurement.

For cup sizing, you'll also need an underbust measurement. Wrap the tape around your ribcage directly under your bust, where a bra band would sit. This measurement, combined with your full bust measurement, helps determine cup size if you're considering swimwear with built-in cups or underwire support.

Waist Measurement

Locate your natural waist, which is the narrowest part of your torso, typically just above your belly button. Bend to one side; your natural waist is where your body creases. Wrap the tape around this point, keeping it parallel to the floor. Don't hold your breath or suck in; measure your relaxed waist.

Hip Measurement

Stand with feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. This is usually about 20 centimetres below your natural waist. Keep the tape level and snug without pulling. This measurement is crucial for ensuring one-piece swimwear fits comfortably through the leg openings without digging in.

Torso Length

Torso length is particularly important for one-piece swimwear and is often overlooked. Stand straight and measure from the top of your shoulder (where a strap would sit), down past your bust, through your crotch, and up your back to the starting point. This circumference measurement helps determine if you need regular, long torso, or petite sizing.

Understanding Size Charts

Once you have your measurements, the next step is interpreting brand-specific size charts. Different brands use different sizing systems, and understanding these variations prevents frustration.

Australian vs International Sizing

Australian swimwear sizing generally runs two sizes larger than US sizing. An Australian size 12 corresponds roughly to a US size 8. European sizing uses a different numerical system entirely. Always check which sizing system a brand uses and refer to their specific measurements rather than assuming equivalence.

Reading Size Charts

Most size charts provide ranges for bust, waist, and hips at each size. If your measurements fall between sizes, consider your priorities:

• If bust support is important, choose the size that best matches your bust measurement
• For active swimming, size down slightly for a more secure fit
• For lounging or comfort, size up if between sizes
• Pay attention to stretch and recovery ratings in product descriptions

Trying On and Adjusting

When your swimsuit arrives, proper fitting technique helps you assess whether it's the right size or needs to be exchanged.

The Fitting Process

Step into the swimsuit from the top rather than pulling it up from the bottom, as this reduces stress on the fabric. Settle the crotch into place first, then pull up the torso and adjust the straps. Move around in the suit; squat, reach overhead, and twist to see how it performs during movement.

Common Fit Problems and Solutions

Straps digging in: If straps leave red marks or feel uncomfortable, you may need a larger size or a style with wider straps. Adjustable straps can sometimes resolve minor issues.

Gaping at neckline: This typically indicates the suit is too large in the bust or the wrong style for your body. Consider sizing down or trying a different neckline style.

Riding up at leg openings: This can result from a torso that's too short for your body, too-small sizing, or insufficient rear coverage. Try a long torso version or a style with higher leg cuts.

Crotch too short: If the suit feels like it's pulling through the torso, you likely need a long torso size. This is common for women over 170cm or those with proportionally longer torsos.

Special Sizing Considerations

Cup-Sized Swimwear

Some brands offer swimwear sized by bra size rather than dress size, which can be helpful for women with larger busts. To use these charts, you'll need both your underbust and full bust measurements. The band size corresponds to your underbust measurement, while the difference between underbust and full bust determines cup size.

Plus Sizes and Extended Ranges

Many brands now offer extended size ranges up to Australian size 26 or beyond. When shopping in plus sizes, pay particular attention to torso length and look for brands that specifically design for fuller figures rather than simply grading up from smaller sizes.

Accurate measurements are your best tool for finding swimwear that fits beautifully. Take your time with the measuring process, keep your measurements handy for reference, and always consult brand-specific size charts. With this information, you can shop online with confidence and minimise the need for returns and exchanges.