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Selecting the right size swimsuit or bikini

by: riotz-swimwear-and-clothing ( 421Feedback score is 100 to 499)
18 out of 26 people found this guide helpful.
Guide viewed: 9565 times Tags: swimwear | swimsuit | brazilian bikini | bikini | bathing suit



Tips for selecting the proper size swimsuit

How to measure your size correctly:

Always take the time to obtain your current, correct measurements!  Doing so will ensure that you will receive the proper size swimsuit - please keep in mind that due to hygenic reasons, most swimwear sellers offer NO exchanges or returns on swimwear if it doesn't fit.  Swimwear sizing is NOT standardized between brands and manufacturers, so the same size medium from another company may be completely different from a medium from us!

Keep in mind that swimwear is supposed to fit tightly when it's dry - most all swimwear increases up to a half-size when wet.  Ever see someone with 'droopy drawers' at the beach?  Likely the result of purchasing a swimsuit that was a size too big.  Getting your accurate size information will prevent this from happening to you!

For the best results, have someone else take the measurements for you.  Also, to be most accurate it's best to measure while wearing undergarments (ie. bra and panties) only.  You won't get proper numbers if you measure over your clothing!

Use a cloth or sewing tape measure to take your Bust, Waist, and Hip measurements in inches.  If you don't have a cloth tape measure, simply use a length of string or yarn and measure the string using a ruler afterwards.

Bust:

While standing up straight, measure around your bust at the fullest part.  Keep the tape parallel to the floor.  Make sure to keep the measuring tape snug, but not tight.  If your measurement is between sizes when comparing to the size chart, please order the LARGER size.

Waist:

Find your "natural" waistline crease by bending to the side.  Then, measure around this point starting and ending at your belly button.  Generally you'll be taking this measurement around the narrowest (smallest) part of your waist.

Hips:

This measurement should be taken around the hips at the widest (largest) point, just above where your thigh begins to narrow.  Again, make sure to keep the tape measure parallel to the floor.  Again, if this measurement is between sizes based on our size chart, please order the LARGER size.

OK, I have my numbers, now what do I do?

Most swimsuit brands and sellers have their own size chart.  Compare your measurements with the size chart for each brand or seller that you are considering!  The size chart for the Brazilian Bikinis my eBay Store, Riotz Swimwear and Clothing, for example, can be found on each of my swimwear listings, as well as on the selecting your swimsuit size page in my store.


Guide ID: 10000000000745160Guide created: 02/14/06 (updated 06/09/10)

 
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