How To Measure Hips

How to Measure Hips: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction
Measuring your hips accurately is crucial for determining the correct size of clothing, pants, and other garments. It’s a straightforward process that can be done with a measuring tape and a few simple steps. This guide will provide you with a detailed explanation of how to measure your hips, along with tips and tricks to ensure accurate results.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Hips

1. Gather your materials. You’ll need a flexible, non-stretchy measuring tape. The best type is a fiberglass or plastic tape measure that can easily conform to your body’s curves.

2. Wear appropriate clothing. Measure your hips while wearing only undergarments or form-fitting clothing that doesn’t add extra bulk. This will help ensure an accurate measurement.

3. Identify the widest part of your hips. Stand up straight with your feet hip-width apart. Your hip bones are located on the sides of your pelvis, below your waistline. The widest part of your hips is usually around the middle of your buttocks, but it can vary from person to person.

4. Wrap the measuring tape around your hips. Position the measuring tape horizontally around the widest part of your hips. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and snug but not too tight. The tape should comfortably fit around your hips without any gaps or bunching.

5. Read the measurement. Stand up straight and look at the measurement on the tape. Record the number in inches or centimeters. If you’re between two sizes, round up to the nearest inch or centimeter.

Tips for Accurate Measurement

• Measure at the widest point. Don’t measure at your waistline or at the top of your thighs. The widest part of your hips is typically located around the middle of your buttocks.
• Hold the tape straight. Ensure that the measuring tape is parallel to the floor and not at an angle. This will prevent inaccurate readings.
• Keep the tape snug but not tight. The tape should be comfortable around your hips without digging into your skin.
• Don’t hold your breath. Holding your breath can affect your body’s shape and lead to inaccurate measurements.
• Measure in front of a mirror. This will help you see the tape’s position and ensure that you’re measuring correctly.

Troubleshooting Common Measurement Errors

• Measuring at the wrong point: Double-check that you’re measuring around the widest part of your hips, usually around the middle of your buttocks.
• Using a stretchy tape: Stretchy tapes can distort the measurement, leading to inaccurate results. Use a non-stretchy fiberglass or plastic tape measure.
• Measuring over clothing: Clothing can add extra bulk, affecting the measurement. Measure while wearing only undergarments or form-fitting clothing.
• Holding the tape too tight or too loose: The tape should be snug but not too tight. If it’s too tight, it can push against your body and reduce the measurement.
• Measuring at an angle: Keep the measuring tape parallel to the floor and not at an angle. Angled measurements can lead to inaccurate readings.

Hip Measurement Variations

The average hip measurement for an adult female is between 36 and 40 inches (91 and 102 cm). However, there can be significant variations based on body type, weight, and age.

• Body type: Pear-shaped individuals tend to have wider hips than apple-shaped individuals.
• Weight: Weight gain and loss can affect hip measurements.
• Age: Hip measurements can change slightly over time due to changes in body composition and muscle distribution.

FAQ

Q: How often should I measure my hips?
A: It’s generally recommended to measure your hips every few months or whenever you notice a change in your body size or shape.

Q: What are the typical hip measurements for different clothing sizes?
A: Hip measurements can vary by brand and style. Consult a size chart for the specific clothing item you’re interested in.

Q: Can I use a tape measure that’s not in inches or centimeters?
A: You can convert the measurement to the desired unit using an online converter or a conversion app.

Q: I have a large difference between my waist and hip measurements. Is that normal?
A: Yes, it’s normal for the difference between waist and hip measurements to vary. The average difference is around 10 inches (25 cm).

Conclusion

Measuring your hips accurately is essential for choosing clothing that fits comfortably and flatters your body shape. By following the steps outlined in this guide and considering the tips and troubleshooting advice, you can ensure accurate hip measurements and find garments that fit you perfectly.