Online shopping for shapewear offers unparalleled convenience, letting you browse from your home. However, understanding how to accurately measure yourself for shapewear, especially without trying it on, can be tricky. Getting the right fit is crucial for comfort and achieving the desired smoothing and shaping effect. This guide will walk you through measuring yourself to confidently choose the correct Spanx size, ensuring your shapewear enhances your natural silhouette.
Why Accurate Shapewear Sizing Matters
Choosing the right size for your Spanx shapewear is essential for several reasons. Shapewear that is too small can be uncomfortably tight, restrict movement, and even create unflattering bulges. Conversely, shapewear that is too large won’t provide the desired shaping and support. Accurate measurements ensure your Spanx shapewear fits perfectly, offering comfort, confidence, and the smooth look you’re after. By taking precise measurements, you can leverage Spanx’s size guides effectively and make informed purchasing decisions online.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Body for Spanx Shapewear
Finding your ideal Spanx shapewear size starts with accurate body measurements. You’ll need a flexible measuring tape, a pen, and paper or your smartphone to record your measurements. Follow these simple steps to measure your waist, hips, and bust to determine the best Spanx size for you.
Measuring Your Waist for Spanx
For your waist measurement, stand relaxed and find your natural waistline. This is usually the narrowest part of your torso, located between your rib cage and hips. You can find it by bending to the side; the crease that forms is your natural waist.
- Positioning the Tape: Stand straight and wrap the measuring tape around your natural waistline. Ensure the tape is parallel to the floor and snug but not too tight. You should be able to place a finger between the tape and your waist.
- Record the Measurement: Breathe normally and note the measurement in inches or centimeters where the tape overlaps. This is your waist measurement for Spanx size selection.
Measuring Your Hips for Spanx
To measure your hips for Spanx shapewear, stand with your feet together. Locate the widest part of your hips and buttocks. This is the area you need to measure for an accurate hip size.
- Positioning the Tape: Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. Ensure the tape is parallel to the floor and comfortably snug around your body.
- Record the Measurement: Check in a mirror to make sure the tape is level all around. Note the measurement where the tape meets, ensuring you measure the widest circumference. This hip measurement is crucial for choosing the right size in Spanx shapewear bottoms.
Measuring Your Bust for Spanx Bras and Shapewear
Measuring your bust correctly is vital, especially if you are selecting Spanx bras or shapewear that provides bust support. Wear a non-padded bra that fits you well for the most accurate measurement. Alternatively, you can measure without a bra.
- Positioning the Tape: Wrap the measuring tape around your torso directly under your bust, where your bra band usually sits. The tape should be snug and parallel to the floor. Record this underbust measurement.
- Fullest Part of Bust: Now, wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, across your nipples. The tape should be comfortably snug but not too tight. Ensure it’s parallel to the floor. Record this overbust measurement.
- Calculate Bra Size (If Applicable): While Spanx size guides typically use bust measurements, understanding bra sizing can be helpful. Subtract your underbust measurement from your overbust measurement. The difference corresponds to your cup size (e.g., 1 inch = A cup, 2 inches = B cup, etc.). Combine this with your underbust measurement (band size) to determine your bra size (e.g., 34B, 36C).
Utilizing Spanx Size Guides for the Perfect Fit
Once you have your waist, hip, and bust measurements, the next step is to use Spanx size charts. Spanx provides detailed size guides for each of their products. These guides are usually available on the product page and provide specific measurements for each size (XS, S, M, L, XL, etc.).
- Locate the Size Chart: Navigate to the Spanx product you are interested in and find the size guide or size chart link, usually near the size selection dropdown or product description.
- Match Your Measurements: Compare your body measurements (waist, hips, bust) to the size ranges provided in the Spanx size chart. Identify the size that best corresponds to your measurements.
- Consider Compression Level: Spanx shapewear comes in different compression levels, from light to super firm. For high compression shapewear, especially items like shaping shorts or leggings, consider sizing up if you are between sizes or prefer a more comfortable fit. This is often mentioned in the product description or size guide notes.
- Read Product-Specific Notes: Pay attention to any specific sizing recommendations in the product description or size guide. Some Spanx items might have unique sizing considerations.
Example Spanx Size Guide Considerations (Illustrative – Always Refer to Official Spanx Charts):
- Spanx Shapewear Shorts/Leggings: If your hip measurement falls between sizes on the chart, and you prefer moderate compression, choose the larger size for all-day comfort.
- Spanx Shapewear Panties: For everyday wear, if you are between sizes, the smaller size might offer a firmer hold, but consider your comfort preference.
- Spanx Bras: Use your bust and underbust measurements to find your band and cup size on the Spanx bra size chart. Consider the bra style and desired support level when choosing your size.
Tips for Choosing the Right Spanx Shapewear Size Online
- Measure Regularly: Body measurements can fluctuate. Measure yourself every few months, especially if you are purchasing shapewear for a special occasion or have experienced weight changes.
- Check Reviews: Read customer reviews for insights on sizing accuracy. Some reviewers may comment if a particular Spanx item runs small or large.
- Compare to Similar Items: If you own other shapewear that fits well, compare the size to the Spanx size chart. However, always rely on your current measurements and the specific Spanx size guide for the product you are buying.
- When in Doubt, Size Up (Especially for High Compression): If you are unsure or between sizes, it’s generally better to size up, especially for high-compression shapewear. You can always exchange for a smaller size if needed, but comfort is key.
- Understand Return Policies: Familiarize yourself with Spanx’s return and exchange policies in case the first size you order isn’t perfect. Many brands offer customer-friendly policies for online shapewear purchases.
Shop Spanx Shapewear with Confidence
By following this comprehensive guide to measuring yourself and utilizing Spanx size charts, you can confidently shop for Spanx shapewear online and achieve the perfect fit. Accurate measurements are the key to unlocking the comfort, support, and shaping benefits of Spanx, ensuring you feel fabulous in every outfit. Explore the Spanx collection and find your perfect shapewear today!
