Short version: measure your bust, underbust, waist and hips with a soft tape, write the numbers down, then check them against our store-wide size chart and the size options and fit notes on the exact piece you want. Lingerie sizing is not standardized from brand to brand, so the number on your favorite bra somewhere else is a starting point, not an answer.
Lingerie fit problems tend to look alike. A bodysuit pulls at the shoulders. A corset top closes but feels like a hug from someone who doesn't know when to stop. Here is the routine we'd suggest before you add anything to your cart.
How to measure yourself (five minutes, one tape)
Use a soft measuring tape and wear as little as possible, or a thin unpadded bra. Stand naturally. Don't suck in. Keep the tape level all the way around, and check it in a mirror if you can, because it tends to dip at the back.
- Bust: around the fullest part of your chest, tape level and relaxed, not tight.
- Underbust: directly under your bust, where a bra band sits. This one should be snug.
- Waist: around the narrowest point of your natural waist, usually a little above your belly button.
- Hips: around the fullest part of your hips and seat.
Write them down with the date. Bodies change with the season, the month and the week, and lingerie is close-fitting enough that a small change can matter.
These are the same four measurements our size chart is built on. It covers XS to XL plus One Size, with bust, cup, waist, hip and US dress size for each, all in inches. It's the same chart you'll see in the Size Guide on every product page, so keep it open while you shop.
Reading the sizes on our product pages
Most pieces in the shop come in letter sizes. You'll see two formats. Some list plain letters like S, M, L and XL. Others pair the letter with a US dress size, for example S/4-6, M/6-8, L/8-10 and XL/10-12. If you know your dress size, that second format is the easier one to shop from.
The range isn't the same on every item, and that's worth checking first. Some sets stop at L. Some corset tops start at XS. A few go a lot further.
So check in this order. Start with the store-wide size chart. Then look at the size options and notes on the product you're buying, since they can tell you about stretch, adjustability and coverage. If a piece goes past XL, like this corset top, its own size selector is your guide, and you can always ask us before ordering.
Bras and bra sets
Most bras in the shop come in letter sizes, usually as part of a set, rather than in band-and-cup sizes like 34C. That makes your underbust measurement the important one. The band does most of the supporting, so if it rides up your back, it's too loose. If it leaves deep marks after an hour, it's too tight.
For cups, look at the style. Wireless and sheer mesh cups have more give and forgive a slightly off size. Molded or underwire cups don't. If you're between sizes in an underwire style, your bust measurement should decide.
Panties and bottoms
Go by your hip measurement, then your waist. Thongs and strappy bottoms are the most forgiving because there's less fabric to argue with. High-waist styles need the waist measurement to be right too, otherwise they roll.
One thing to know before you size up "just in case": a bottom that's too big doesn't look relaxed, it looks like it's sliding off. For stretch fabrics, our size guide's advice is to choose based on the fit you prefer, so if you're between sizes on a stretchy lace bottom, go by how snug you like it.
Bodysuits and teddies
This is the category where people get caught out. A bodysuit has to fit around you and also from your shoulder to your crotch, and no size label measures that. If you have a long torso, a bodysuit in your usual size can pull down at the straps or ride up at the bottom. Adjustable straps help. If a style doesn't have them and you're on the taller side, or you're between sizes, our size guide says to choose the larger size. That goes for anyone who wants less compression through the torso, too.
Still not sure which one-piece you want? Our post on teddy vs bodysuit covers how the two differ in cut and coverage. You can browse both in Bodysuits & Teddies.
Corsets and corset tops
Corset tops are the least forgiving thing we sell. Size them by the measurement that's largest relative to the size range, which is often the bust for corset tops and the waist for underbust styles. A good fit is snug and stays put when you sit down. It should not stop you from taking a full breath.
For structured, low-stretch pieces like these, the size guide says to size up when your measurements sit at the top of a range. A slightly loose corset can be styled with a belt or a jacket. A tight one just goes back in the drawer. You'll find the full range under Corset Tops.
Babydolls and chemises: the easy fit
Babydolls and chemises fit at the bust and then flow, so the waist and hips matter much less. If you're shopping without measurements, or buying for someone else, these are the safest place to start.
See more in Babydolls & Chemises.
A few fit tips we repeat a lot
- Check the stretch. Description says stretch blend or spandex? You have more room. Plain lace or structured mesh? Less.
- Look at more than one photo. The gallery shows coverage, straps and how the piece sits better than any line of text.
- Curvier sizes are grouped in Plus Size Lingerie, and smaller frames may like Petite Friendly styles.
- Try new pieces on over your own underwear. That's how our returns policy asks you to do it, and it helps keep the piece eligible if the size turns out wrong.
- Ask. If a product page doesn't answer your question, contact us and name the item. We'd rather help before you order than after.
Once you've found your fit, the lingerie care guide will help keep it that way. Lace and mesh lose their shape fast in a hot wash.