Whether you're ordering denim, dresses, or your next go-to romper, getting the right fit starts with knowing your numbers. Here’s your no-stress guide to measuring yourself, featuring Ava Lane styles and tips so you can feel confident with every click.
What You’ll Need:
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A soft measuring tape (you can grab one on Amazon or at Target!)
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A mirror
Don’t have a measuring tape?
No problem. Use a string, ribbon, or even a phone charger cord to wrap around your body the same way you would with a measuring tape. Then, lay it flat and measure the length against a ruler or metal tape measure. Done.
Bust
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To measure, wrap a soft measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust. Ensure it’s level across your back and sits flat against your skin, neither digging in nor sliding around. A mirror can help double-check that it’s even.
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Why it matters: Getting your bust measurement right is key for finding tops, dresses, jumpsuits, and bodysuits that fit comfortably and flatter your shape. It helps you avoid a too-tight chest, pulling at buttons, or that boxy, shapeless fit.
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Whether you’re working with a fuller bust or a smaller cup size, this number provides a better idea of how an item will fit, drape, or shape your upper body. Styles with stretch, structured seams, or wrap details can make all the difference, and we always highlight them in our product descriptions.
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Browse bust-friendly fits and use filters like size, color, brand, and price to find your perfect match: Shop Tops
Waist
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To measure, find your natural waist, which is usually the narrowest part of your torso, located about 1–2 inches above your belly button. Wrap a measuring tape around this spot, keeping it snug but not tight. Stand relaxed (no sucking in!) for the most accurate fit.
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Why it matters: Your waist measurement plays a crucial role in how denim fits at the waistband, and understanding where the waistband hits (also known as the rise) helps you select the right fit.
Denim rises typically fall into three categories:
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High rise sits right at or above your natural waist, offering more structure and coverage.
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Mid-rise falls just below your waist, creating a balanced, classic look.
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Low-rise rests at your hips for a more relaxed fit.
Measuring your natural waist helps ensure your jeans sit where you want them to and feel comfortable.
Understanding your waist size helps you pick a rise that flatters your shape and feels good throughout the day, whether you're dressing up or throwing on denim for the carpool line.
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Explore all our fits and rises here: Shop Ava Lane Denim
Hips
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To measure, stand with your feet together and wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your hips and buttocks; this is usually about 7–9 inches below your waist. Keep the tape level throughout its entire length and parallel to the floor.
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Why it matters: Your hip measurement is key when it comes to finding bottoms that fit smoothly without pulling, gapping, or feeling too tight across your curves. This is especially important for more fitted denim, shorts, or skirts. If you’ve ever dealt with jeans that fit your waist but not your hips (or vice versa), this measurement will save you a lot of trouble.
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Find denim that loves your curves as much as you do: Shop Denim
Inseam
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To measure, start at your crotch seam and measure straight down the inside of your leg to the desired length of the jeans. The inseam is different depending on the style:
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For skinny jeans: measure to your ankle
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For full-length styles: measure to the floor (barefoot)
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For cropped fits, measure to just above your ankle or mid-calf
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Why it matters: The inseam determines where your jeans land, which affects how they look with different shoes, how much leg they show, and how they feel when you're moving. It’s essential when shopping online to know your inseam, as it takes the guesswork out of what "cropped" or "ankle length" really means on your body.
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Explore styles by inseam and fit: Shop All Denim
Torso Length
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To measure, start at the top of your shoulder and measure down the front of your body to your waist or hip, depending on the style you’re checking. This measurement is ideal for bodysuits, jumpsuits, and other garments with a fixed rise in the torso.
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Why it matters: If you’ve ever felt like a jumpsuit was too short or too long in the body, this measurement can help you find styles that fit without pulling, bunching, or riding up.
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Looking for one-pieces that fit? Shop Rompers & Jumpsuits
Final Fit Tips
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Take your measurements while wearing minimal clothing and standing naturally; comfort is key.
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Re-measure every few months if your body’s changing (hello, real life).
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Use our filters and product descriptions to shop by brand, inseam, size, and style. We always provide you with the information you need to make informed choices with confidence.
Still not sure? Reach out! We're always happy to help you find your perfect fit.