If there's one thing that will change your experience of shopping plus size online, it's knowing your measurements. Not your size — your actual measurements. Bust, waist and hip in centimetres. Three numbers that will save you an enormous amount of money, frustration and returns.

Here's how to take them properly.

What you'll need

A soft tape measure — the kind used in sewing, not a hardware store tape. If you don't have one, they're available at most fabric stores or online for a couple of dollars. You can also use a piece of string and a ruler in a pinch.

Ideally, have someone else take the measurements for you — it's harder to get accurate numbers on your own. If you're measuring yourself, a mirror helps. Wear light clothing or measure over underwear only.

Step 01

Measure your bust

Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your chest — usually across your nipples. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and make sure it's snug but not tight. You should be able to slide a finger underneath it. Breathe normally and take the measurement — don't hold your breath or puff your chest out.

Step 02

Measure your waist

Your natural waist is the narrowest part of your torso — usually a few centimetres above your belly button. If you're not sure where it is, bend to the side: the crease that forms is your natural waist. Wrap the tape around this point, keeping it horizontal. Snug but not tight.

Step 03

Measure your hip

Stand with your feet together and wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips and bottom — usually about 20cm below your natural waist, but the fullest point is what matters. Keep the tape parallel to the floor. Note: some brands (including Torrid and Lane Bryant) measure a "low hip" which is taken even further down and will read larger than a standard hip measurement.

Write the numbers down

Seriously — write them somewhere you'll find them. Your phone notes, a sticky note on your computer. You're going to want them every time you shop online. Once you have your three numbers, use them in Fit Found's fit finder to instantly see your size across 101 brands.

How often should you re-measure?

Bodies change. If your weight shifts, you have a baby, or it's been more than a year since you last measured, take new measurements. The numbers that worked last year might not be accurate now.

What to do with your measurements

Once you have your bust, waist and hip in centimetres, you can:

Use your measurements now → Enter your bust, waist and hip into the Fit Found fit finder and instantly see your size across 101 brands.