How to Measure Yourself for Modest Swimwear

Accurate body measurements are the foundation of choosing the right modest swimwear size. Measure your bust, waist, and hips, then compare those measurements with the brand's size chart. Measure correctly helps improve fit, comfort, and freedom of movement while reducing the exchanges or returns.

What Do You Need to Measure Yourself

A soft measuring tape is the only essential tool. For the most accurate results, measure over underwear or lightweight, close-fitting clothing rather than bulky garments that add unnecessary volume.

Before you begin:

• Use a flexible fabric measuring tape.
• Stand naturally with relaxed posture.
• Measure in front of a mirror or ask someone to assist.
• Keep the tape level around your body.
• Repeat each measurement twice and use the most consistent reading.

Careful preparation helps ensure every measurement reflects your actual body size rather than the clothing you're wearing.

How Do You Measure Your Bust

Measure around the fullest part of your bust. Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest point of your chest, keeping it level across your back and parallel to the floor. Your arms should remain relaxed at your sides, and the tape should sit comfortably against the body without compressing the bust.

This measurement helps determine the upper-body fit of your swimsuit and is particularly important when selecting styles with built-in bust support, underwire, or molded cups.

for additional support, read the guide Modest Swimwear Bra Types Explained.

How Do You Measure Your Waist

Measure around your natural waistline. Locate the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the belly button and below the rib cage. Wrap the tape evenly around your waist without pulling it tightly against the skin.

Take the measurement after a normal breath out rather than holding your stomach in or expanding your chest. A relaxed measurement provides the most accurate guide for swimwear sizing and everyday comfort.

How Do You Measure Your Hips

Stand with your feet together and position the measuring tape around the widest part of your hips and buttocks. Keep the tape parallel to the floor all the way around to avoid inaccurate readings.

The hip measurement helps determine how comfortably swim leggings, bottoms, and one-piece styles fit through the lower body while allowing unrestricted movement during swimming.

What If My Measurements Fall Between Two Sizes

Always compare your measurements with the product's own size chart. Different swimwear collections use different patterns, fabrics, and levels of stretch, so there is no universal rule to always size up or size down.

When your measurements span multiple sizes, consider:

• The product's recommended size chart.

• The amount of stretch in the fabric.

• Whether you prefer a closer or more relaxed fit.

• Any brand-specific sizing notes provided on the product page.

For a broader overview, read the BAE Modest Size Chart and Fit Guide.

How Do You Confirm the Right Fit

Taking accurate measurements is the first step; checking the fit after your swimsuit arrives is equally important.

A well-fitting modest swimsuit should:

• Sit comfortably without pinching or gaping.
• Allow unrestricted movement through the shoulders and hips.
• Stay securely in place while walking and swimming.
• Provide the intended level of coverage without excessive tightness.

If you're buying a burkini, read How Should a Burkini Fit? for a complete fit checklist after trying it on.

What's Next After I Have My Measurements?

Once you know your bust, waist, and hip measurements, you're ready to compare them with the appropriate size chart for your chosen style.

You may also find these guides helpful before ordering:

• Swimsuit Size vs. Bra Size – Understand how bra sizing relates to swimwear sizing.
• BAE Modest Size Chart – Compare your measurements across different collections.
• Common Burkini Sizing Mistakes – Learn how to avoid the most frequent sizing errors.
• What to Do If Your Swimwear Doesn't Fit – Practical solutions for exchanges and fit adjustments.

Accurate measurements provide the best starting point for finding modest swimwear that is comfortable, supportive, and designed to move naturally in and out of the water.