Knowing your body's measurements is THE key to getting great fitting clothing online. Since online shopping doesn't afford us the luxury of trying the actual item on, having accurate measurements is the best way to avoid disappointment when your item arrives.

Taking your measurements seems simple enough, right? Yet most of us put it off and never know the exact numbers. Okay, ladies, suspend all judgment and pick up your tape measures. Remember, your measurements are neither good nor bad, they are simply yours.

Since plus size clothing sizes aren't standard, you need to know your measurements to make sense of size charts. Once you know how to take your body measurements, you've removed the guesswork from finding an excellent fit.

Here's How:

1. Grab your tools.

You'll need a cloth tape measure, a piece of string, paper and pencil or pen and a mirror for best results.

2. Measure your bust.

Take this measurement wearing your everyday bra. Facing the mirror, wrap the tape measure around your back and bring forward to the fullest part of your bust. Check the mirror to make sure you've got a straight line. Now write that number down as bust with everyday bra.

Remember to take this measurement again if you plan on wearing a different type of bra.

3. Find your natural waist.

Your natural waistline is easy to find using a string. Tie the string so it's snug but comfortable around your waist. Now bend to each side. The string will move to your natural waistline. Check the mirror. This time the line may not be straight and that's fine. Pick up your tape and measure over the string exactly where it is. Make sure not to hold your breath or pull the tape too tight.

Jot this down as your natural waist.

4. Measure your hip.

What you want here is the absolute fullest part of your low hip. Stand with your feet together. Check yourself both front and side in the mirror to make sure you've got your fullest hip and that the tape measure is straight.

Call this low hip and write your number down.

5. Find your inseam.

Your inseam is measured crotch to ankle on the inside of your leg. Start at your anklebone and measure up. This is easiest with a partner. If you want to go it alone, start at the ankle and measure up. You can take this in two parts if needed: from your anklebone to where your knee bends and from that spot up to the crotch. Use the mirror and double check.

Call this inseam and note your number.

6. Shop!

Now you're armed with everything you need to find great fashion online. Good luck and happy shopping!