Lingerie size guide: measure once, get it right

Lingerie sizing is not one system — it is several. A dress size tells you very little about which bra or bodystocking will fit, so the reliable approach is to measure yourself and compare against the size chart of the specific product.

Take four measurements

1. Bust — around the fullest part of your chest, tape level, not pulled tight.
2. Underbust — directly under the bust, snug. This is your band size.
3. Waist — at the narrowest point, usually just above the navel.
4. Hips — around the fullest part, roughly 20 cm below the waist.

Measure over thin clothing or nothing at all, keep the tape parallel to the floor, and write the numbers down. If you are between two sizes, size up for anything with little stretch (lace, PVC, structured cups) and down for mesh or stretch lace.

Reading a bra size

A bra size has two parts: the band (underbust) and the cup. The cup is a difference between bust and underbust, not a fixed volume — which is why the same cup letter holds different volumes on different band sizes. Always start from the band: if the band rides up at the back, it is too large.

Fabric and fit

• Lace and mesh — little stretch; the fit is decided by the pattern.
• Stretch lace and microfibre — forgiving, good for a first purchase.
• PVC, vinyl, wet-look — no stretch and no breathing; go by the chart, not by feel.
• Bodystockings — sized by height as well as body size. Check both.
• Stockings — thigh measurements matter more than dress size if you want them to stay up without a suspender belt.

Make it last

Hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent, or use a mesh laundry bag on a delicate cycle. Never tumble dry lace or elastic. Store flat or hanging rather than folded tight, and keep anything with adhesive or silicone edges away from direct heat.

A well-fitting piece in a simple fabric beats an ill-fitting showpiece — you will actually wear it.