How to Measure Yourself for a Waist Trainer
Getting the right size is everything. Too small and you'll be uncomfortable (or hurt yourself). Too large and it won't do anything.
This guide walks you through measuring correctly.
What You'll Need
- A flexible measuring tape (fabric, not metal)
- A mirror (helpful, not required)
- Something to write down your numbers
If you don't have a fabric measuring tape, use a string and then measure the string with a ruler.
The Measurements You Need
1. Natural Waist
This is the most important measurement.
How to find it: Stand relaxed. Bend slightly to one side. The crease that forms is your natural waist—usually the narrowest part of your torso, above your belly button and below your ribs.
How to measure: Wrap the tape around this point. Keep it parallel to the floor. Don't suck in, don't puff out. Just breathe normally.
Write this number down.
2. Torso Length (For Corsets)
If you're considering a steel-boned corset, you'll need to know your torso length to pick the right style.
Short torso: Less than 9 inches from underbust to hip bone
Medium torso: 9-11 inches
Long torso: More than 11 inches
To measure: Sit up straight. Measure from directly under your bust to the top of your thigh crease.
3. Underbust (Optional but Helpful)
Wrap the tape directly under your bust, where a bra band sits. Some brands use this measurement for sizing.
4. Upper Hip
Measure around the widest part of your hip bones (not your full hips/butt). Some longer trainers need this measurement.
"Measure honestly. The right size is the one that fits your body now, not your goal.
Common Measuring Mistakes
Sucking in your stomach. Measure your actual body, not your goal body.
Measuring over thick clothing. Wear thin clothes or measure directly on skin.
Pulling the tape too tight. It should be snug, not digging in.
Measuring at the wrong spot. Your natural waist isn't at your belly button for most people. Find the actual narrowest point.
Using Your Measurements to Choose a Size
Most brands have size charts. Here's the general approach:
- Find your natural waist measurement
- Look at the brand's size chart
- Choose the size where your measurement falls in the middle of the range
When in doubt, size up. A slightly larger trainer can be adjusted. One that's too small is unwearable.
What About Sizing Down?
Some people intentionally buy smaller to have room to "train down" into it.
This can work, but don't go more than one size down. A trainer that's far too small will just sit in your closet because you can't wear it.
Better approach: Start with your true size and buy the next size down later once you've made progress.
Quick Reference
| Measurement | How to Take It |
|---|---|
| Natural waist | Narrowest part of torso, tape parallel to floor |
| Torso length | Underbust to thigh crease while seated |
| Underbust | Directly under bust |
| Upper hip | Widest part of hip bones |