How to Measure Yourself for Shapewear: The Complete UK Sizing Guide

The most common shapewear complaints, like rolling, digging, bunching or not sculpting at all, almost always come down to one thing: the wrong size. Shapewear sizing isn't like clothing sizing. A size 12 dress doesn't automatically mean a size 12 in shapewear, so measuring before you buy is the single most important step to finding shapewear that works.

Looking for style advice too? See Best Shapewear for Every Body Type: A Complete Guide (2026).

What do I need to measure myself for shapewear?

• A soft fabric measuring tape (not a metal one)
• A mirror, or a friend to help
• Bare skin or thin, close-fitting clothing for accurate readings

Which measurements do I need for shapewear?

1. Waist

Measure around the narrowest part of your torso, usually 2–3 inches above your belly button. Keep the tape parallel to the floor, snug but not tight. Don't hold your breath or pull in your stomach. Measure as you naturally stand.

Used for: high-waist briefs, waist trainers, bodysuits, shaping shorts

→ Shop the Compression Shapewear Panty

2. Hips

Measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom, usually 8–9 inches below your natural waist. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and make sure it passes over the fullest point of your seat.

Used for: shaping briefs, shorts, bodysuits, full-body shapers

3. Bust

Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the floor. It should be snug but not compressing.

Used for: bodysuits with built-in bra support, full-body shapers

→ Shop the Seamless Bodysuit with Built-in Bra

4. Torso length (for bodysuits)

Measure from the top of your shoulder, down over your bust, through your crotch and back up to the starting point. This full torso measurement tells you whether a standard or short-torso bodysuit will fit comfortably.

Used for: sculpting bodysuits, full-body shapers

How do I use my measurements to choose a size?

Compare your measurements against our Shapewear Size Guide (with UK dress size equivalents in inches and cm) and the size chart on each product page, not against your usual clothing size. Shapewear brands size differently, and even within our range, styles can fit slightly differently depending on their construction and compression level.

If you're between sizes: size up. Shapewear that's too small rolls down, digs in and creates bulges above the waistband. One size up still sculpts, with the comfort to wear it all day.

If your waist and hips fall in different sizes: choose the size that fits your larger measurement. A garment that's too tight across the hips will roll and dig in, while one slightly looser at the waist still smooths beautifully.

What are the most common shapewear sizing mistakes?

• Measuring over thick clothing: always measure over bare skin or thin, close-fitting layers.
• Pulling the tape too tight: this gives an artificially small measurement and leads to ordering too small.
• Using your dress size: shapewear sizing is based on body measurements, not clothing size.
• Ignoring torso length for bodysuits: the most common cause of bodysuit discomfort.

Does compression level affect which size I need?

Yes. Higher-compression shapewear feels tighter than lower-compression styles in the same size, which is normal. If you're new to shapewear, start with medium compression in your measured size, then explore firmer options once you're comfortable. Our guide to Shapewear Compression Levels Explained breaks down light, medium, firm and extra-firm.

→ Shop the Body Sculpting Suit

How do I know my shapewear fits once it arrives?

• Correct fit: smooth, even compression with no digging, rolling or visible lines, and comfortable for several hours.
• Too small: the waistband rolls down, fabric digs in, or there's bulging at the edges.
• Too large: fabric wrinkles or sags, gives little sculpting effect, or shifts as you move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I size up or down in shapewear?

Size up if you're between sizes. Shapewear that's too small rolls, digs in and creates bulges, while one size up still sculpts and is far more comfortable. For waist trainers a snug fit is part of the design, but never size down below your measured size.

Can I use my dress size for shapewear?

No. Shapewear sizing is based on body measurements, not clothing size, and a 14 in one brand may be a 16 in another. Always measure your waist and hips and check the product's size chart before ordering.

How do I measure for a waist trainer?

Measure your natural waist, the narrowest point of your torso, usually 2–3 inches above your belly button, while standing naturally. Compare it to the waist trainer's size chart. Browse our Waist Trainers collection for styles with detailed size guides.

What if my waist and hips are different sizes?

Choose the size that fits your larger measurement, as hips are usually the critical fit point. If your waist is much smaller than your hips, look for adjustable waistbands or graduated compression.

Where should I measure my waist for shapewear?

Measure at your natural waist, the narrowest part of your torso, which is usually 2–3 inches above your belly button. Keep the tape level and relaxed, and don't breathe in.