When it comes to getting the perfect fit for your clothing, knowing your hip size is essential. Whether you’re shopping for jeans, skirts, or dresses, having an accurate hip measurement will ensure that you choose the right size. Fortunately, measuring your hip size is a simple process that can be done in just a few minutes with a measuring tape. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps on how to measure your hip size accurately, providing tips and tricks to ensure a precise measurement.
To begin, you’ll need a measuring tape and a comfortable pair of pants or shorts. Start by standing up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Wrap the measuring tape around your hips, making sure it’s level and parallel to the floor. The tape should be positioned at the fullest part of your hips, which is typically around 7-9 inches below your waist. Relax and exhale as you take the measurement, ensuring that the tape is snug but not too tight. Read the measurement where the tape overlaps itself and record it in inches or centimeters.
If you don’t have a measuring tape handy, there are a few alternative methods you can use to estimate your hip size. One option is to use a piece of string or a ribbon. Wrap the string around your hips as described above and then measure the length with a ruler. Alternatively, you can use a pair of pants that fit you well and measure the distance between the side seams at the hips. However, it’s important to note that these methods may not be as accurate as using a measuring tape.
Measuring Hip Size Accurately
Measuring your hip size accurately is essential for finding the right clothes, creating custom clothing, and tracking body composition changes. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure an accurate measurement:
-
Step 1: Stand up straight
Stand with your feet hip-width apart, with your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Avoid leaning or arching your back.
-
Step 2: Find the widest part of your hips
Use a flexible measuring tape and locate the widest point of your hips. This is typically around the middle of your buttocks, but it may vary depending on your body type.
-
Step 3: Wrap the tape around your hips
Wrap the tape measure around your hips, keeping it parallel to the floor. The tape should be snug but not tight enough to constrict your breathing or movement.
-
Step 4: Mark the measurement
Read the measurement on the tape measure at the point where it overlaps. Note the number in inches or centimeters.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps for measuring hip size accurately:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Stand up straight with your feet hip-width apart. |
| 2 | Find the widest part of your hips. |
| 3 | Wrap the measuring tape around your hips. |
| 4 | Mark the measurement. |
Identifying the True Hip Joint
Accurately measuring your hip size requires knowing the location of your true hip joint. Finding the center of your hip joint is crucial for accurate hip measurements and proper fit for clothing or athletic gear. Here’s a detailed guide to help you identify the true hip joint:
**Step 1: Stand Upright**
Stand with your feet hip-width apart, keeping your body relaxed and your spine straight.
**Step 2: Locate the Greater Trochanter**
The greater trochanter is a bony prominence on the outer side of your thighbone (femur). To find it, place your hands on your hips with your thumbs pointing forward. The greater trochanter is located directly behind the outside edge of your thumbs.
**Step 3: Use Your Middle Finger**
Keeping your fingers on the greater trochanter, slide your middle finger upward toward your waist. The true hip joint is located directly above the greater trochanter, where your middle finger touches the top edge of the pelvic bone.
**Tips:**
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Flex Your Knee | To make it easier to locate the top of the pelvic bone, slightly flex your knee on the side you’re measuring. |
| Use a Mirror | If you have difficulty feeling the location with your fingers, stand in front of a mirror and observe where your middle finger touches the pelvic bone. |
| Compare Sides | For greater accuracy, measure the hip joints on both sides to ensure they are symmetrical. |
Using a Flexible Tape Measure
Using a flexible tape measure is a straightforward and accurate method for measuring your hip size. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Wrap the tape measure around your hip area, ensuring it’s parallel to the floor.
- Keep the tape loose enough to avoid any constricting or pinching.
- Start at one side of your hip and slowly raise the tape measure until it reaches your widest point.
- Once you reach the widest part, note the measurement on the tape.
- Repeat steps 1-4 on the other side of your hip to ensure consistency.
1. Choose the Right Tape Measure
Select a flexible tape measure that is easy to read and has a minimum length of 60 inches (150 cm). Ensure it’s made of a durable material that won’t stretch or break easily.
2. Position Yourself Correctly
Stand up straight with your feet apart about hip-width distance. Keep your body relaxed and your core engaged. Avoid hunching or tilting your hips.
3. Locate Your Hip Measurement Points
To determine your hip size correctly, it’s crucial to identify the widest part of your hips. This is typically located around the center of your hip joint, just below the creases that form when you bend over from the waist. To find this point, follow these steps:
4. Note Your Measurement
Record both left and right hip measurements. If there is a slight difference, take the average of the two numbers to obtain your overall hip size.
Standing Measurement Technique
To measure your hip size while standing, follow these steps:
1. Stand with your feet apart at hip-width.
2. Place a measuring tape around your hips at the widest point.
3. Make sure the tape is parallel to the floor and snug but not too tight.
4. Read the measurement on the tape, which will be in inches or centimeters.
Here are some additional tips for measuring your hip size while standing:
- If you are unable to stand, you can measure your hip size while sitting. To do this, sit on a chair with your feet flat on the floor and your knees bent at a 90-degree angle.
- If you have a large waist, you may need to use a longer measuring tape to get an accurate measurement.
- If you are having trouble finding the widest point on your hips, try to stand in front of a mirror and look for the point where your hips curve out the most.
5. Record your measurement.
Once you have measured your hip size, record it in a safe place so that you can track your progress over time.
Lying Down Measurement Technique
Lying down measurement technique is another way to measure your hip size. While it is not as precise as standing method, it is a bit easier to execute.
How to Measure:
- Lie down on a flat surface with your back flat on the floor.
- Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor.
- Place a measuring tape around the widest part of your buttocks, making sure it is parallel to the floor.
- Take the measurement by reading the tape at the point where it crosses the buttocks.
- Repeat the process multiple times to ensure accuracy.
Tips:
- Make sure the measuring tape is snug but not too tight.
- Avoid holding your breath or flexing your muscles while measuring.
- If you have a noticeable difference between the size of your left and right hips, measure both sides.
| Measurement | Description |
|---|---|
| Hip Circumference | The widest measurement around your buttocks, taken while lying down on your back. |
Remember, body measurements can vary depending on factors such as posture, body composition, and time of day. It’s best to take measurements at a consistent time and under similar conditions to ensure accuracy and comparability over time.
Finding the Largest Circumference
To accurately measure the largest hip circumference, follow these steps:
1. Position the Measuring Tape Correctly
Align the measuring tape parallel to the floor and place it around the widest part of your hips. It should be roughly around your buttocks, below the waistline.
2. Keep the Tape Level
Hold the measuring tape straight and parallel to the ground. Avoid tilting it up or down, as this can distort the measurement.
3. Check for Flaws
Ensure that the measuring tape is not twisted or folded. It should be lying flat against your body. If the tape has creases, smoothen them out before taking the measurement.
4. Stand Upright
Stand with your back straight and your feet shoulder-width apart. Relax your body and arms.
5. Hold Natural Posture
Avoid arching your back or protruding your stomach. This can alter the measurement.
6. Mark the Widest Point
While the measuring tape is in position, twist your body slowly from side to side. Observe the tape’s movement and identify the point where it reaches its most extended position. Mark this point as the largest circumference of your hips.
| Hip Measurement Guide | |
|---|---|
| Hip Size (inches) | Clothing Size |
| 34-36 | XS |
| 37-39 | S |
| 40-42 | M |
| 43-45 | L |
| 46-48 | XL |
| 49-51 | 2XL |
| 52-54 | 3XL |
Avoiding Common Measurement Errors
To ensure accuracy, it’s crucial to avoid common errors during hip measurement:
1. Not Measuring at the Correct Point
The hip should be measured at the widest part, typically around 7-9 inches below the natural waistline.
2. Using the Wrong Tape Measure
Choose a flexible, non-stretching tape measure for precise results.
3. Holding the Tape Loosely
Hold the tape measure snug against the skin, but not so tightly that it digs in.
4. Not Standing Up Straight
Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart for the most accurate measurement.
5. Not Exhaling
Relax your body and exhale before measuring to eliminate any extra tension.
6. Twisting the Tape Measure
Keep the tape measure straight and level to avoid inaccurate readings.
7.Measuring Over Clothing
Remove any bulky clothing or belts that could interfere with the measurement. Consider using a thin measuring tape that can slide underneath clothing if necessary.
Refer to the table below for a summary of potential errors and how to avoid them.
| Potential Error | How to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Measuring at the wrong point | Locate the widest part of the hips, usually 7-9 inches below the waistline. |
| Using a stretchy tape measure | Opt for a non-stretching, flexible tape measure. |
| Holding the tape loosely | Snugly wrap the tape around the hips without digging in. |
| Not standing up straight | Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, back straight. |
| Not exhaling | Relax your body and exhale before measuring. |
| Twisting the tape measure | Keep the tape straight and level to avoid inaccurate readings. |
| Measuring over clothing | Remove bulky clothing or use a thin measuring tape that can slide underneath. |
Tips for Achieving Consistent Readings
To ensure precise and reliable hip measurements, follow these guidelines:
Measure with a flexible tape measure
Metal or rigid tapes can distort the measurement, especially over curves.
Measure while standing straight
Avoid slouching or leaning, as this can affect the accuracy of the reading.
Wrap the tape around your hips at the widest point
This is typically just below the hip bone, about 7-8 inches (18-20 cm) below the waist.
Keep the tape parallel to the floor
Do not hold the tape at an angle, as this will skew the measurement.
Take multiple measurements and use the average
Measure several times to eliminate any errors and get a more accurate result. Calculate the average of the readings.
Use a consistent unit of measurement
Stick to inches or centimeters throughout the process to avoid confusion or incorrect conversions.
Round the measurement to the nearest quarter or half inch/centimeter
Precision is important, but excessive precision can be unnecessary. Rounding the measurement to the nearest quarter or half inch/centimeter provides a reasonable level of accuracy.
Consider body shape and posture
People with significant curves or unusual postures may find it more challenging to take accurate hip measurements. If you have difficulty, consider using a body tape measure or seeking assistance from a professional.
Troubleshooting Measurement Challenges
Tip 1: Wear the right clothing
Wearing loose, comfortable clothing will ensure that you’re not getting inaccurate measurements due to constricted clothing.
Tip 2: Stand up straight
Make sure you’re standing up straight with your feet hip-width apart. This will help you get a more accurate measurement.
Tip 3: Take the measurement twice
If you’re not sure about your hip measurement, take it twice to be sure. This will help you avoid any errors.
Tip 4: Use a measuring tape
Using a measuring tape is the best way to get an accurate hip measurement. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight.
Tip 5: Measure around the fullest part of your hips
The fullest part of your hips is usually around the middle of your buttocks. Make sure the tape is positioned around this part of your body.
Tip 6: Don’t hold your breath
Holding your breath can affect your hip measurement. Relax and breathe normally while you’re taking the measurement.
Tip 7: Measure in inches or centimeters
Using a consistent unit of measurement is important for accuracy. Choose either inches or centimeters and stick to it.
Tip 8: Record your measurement
Once you have your hip measurement, write it down so you can refer to it later. This will help you track your progress or compare it to other measurements.
Tip 9: If you’re having trouble getting an accurate measurement, ask a friend or family member to help you
If you’re still having trouble getting an accurate hip measurement, ask a friend or family member to help you. They can help you with positioning the tape or measuring around the fullest part of your hips.
| Troubleshooting Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Wear the right clothing | Loose, comfortable clothing will ensure accurate measurements. |
| Stand up straight | Feet hip-width apart for an accurate measurement. |
| Take the measurement twice | Avoid errors by repeating the measurement. |
| Use a measuring tape | Get an accurate measurement with a measuring tape. |
| Measure around the fullest part of your hips | Position the tape around the widest part of your buttocks. |
| Don’t hold your breath | Relax and breathe normally during the measurement. |
| Measure in inches or centimeters | Choose a consistent unit of measurement (inches or centimeters). |
| Record your measurement | Write down your measurement for future reference. |
| Ask for help | Have a friend or family member assist with difficult measurements. |
Hip Size Measurement: A Guide
Understanding Your Hip Size: Implications and Applications
Knowing your hip size is essential for various reasons, including:
- Clothing fit: Accurately measuring your hips ensures that you purchase clothing that fits comfortably and flatters your figure.
- Health monitoring: Hip size measurements can provide insights into body composition, weight management, and certain health conditions.
- Physical activity analysis: For individuals involved in physical activities, hip size measurements can aid in determining muscle mass and assessing performance.
Measuring Hip Size
To accurately measure your hip size, follow these steps:
- Stand upright: Maintain a natural and relaxed stance with your feet hip-width apart.
- Identify hip bones: Place your hands on the sides of your hips, where the bones protrude outwards.
- Wrap measuring tape: Position a flexible measuring tape around your hips, keeping it parallel to the floor.
- Align the tape: Align the tape directly across the widest part of your hips, ensuring it sits slightly below your hip bones.
- Record the measurement: Read the measurement at the point where the tape meets itself, rounding to the nearest inch or centimeter.
Factors Affecting Hip Size
Several factors can influence hip size, including:
- Body fat distribution: Fat tends to accumulate in different areas of the body, and the hips are a common site for fat storage.
- Muscle mass: Developed hip muscles can contribute to a wider hip measurement.
- Skeletal structure: The shape and size of your hip bones can impact your hip size.
Hip Size Ranges
Hip size measurements can vary widely based on individual characteristics. The following table provides general hip size ranges for adults:
| Hip Size Range (inches) | Percentile |
|---|---|
| <35 | 10th |
| 35-40 | 25th |
| 41-46 | 50th |
| 47-52 | 75th |
| >52 | 90th |
How To Measure Hip Size
To measure your hip size, follow these steps:
- Wear close-fitting clothing or undergarments.
- Stand with your feet together and your back straight.
- Place a measuring tape around your hips at the widest point, which is usually around the level of your hip bones.
- Keep the tape measure parallel to the floor and snug, but not too tight.
- Read the measurement on the tape measure.
People Also Ask
How do I measure my hip size for jeans?
To measure your hip size for jeans, follow the same steps as outlined above. However, you may want to measure slightly lower on your hips, around the level where the waistband of your jeans would sit.
What is a good hip size for women?
The average hip size for women in the United States is between 37 and 39 inches. However, the ideal hip size varies depending on your height, weight, and body shape.
What is the hip to waist ratio?
The hip to waist ratio is a measurement that compares the circumference of your hips to the circumference of your waist. It is calculated by dividing your hip measurement by your waist measurement. A healthy hip to waist ratio is between 0.7 and 0.85.
