Taking your own measurements is one of the best things you can do for confident shopping — especially when you’re buying preloved clothing that’s been measured to help you find a real fit, not just a guessed size. I’ll keep this relaxed, a little cheeky, and very useful. Grab your favourite underwear (yes, the ones you actually wear when you crossdress), a soft tape measure (or some string and a ruler), and let’s go.
Why measuring matters
Standard sizes lie. A dress labelled “16” can mean a dozen completely different things depending on the label. When you measure yourself properly, you get facts — not guesswork. That means fewer returns, less disappointment, and more time feeling great in what you wear.
What you’ll need
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A soft tape measure (the flexible kind used for sewing).
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If you don’t have one: find some string, a shoelace, or a ribbon, then measure that against a ruler or tape.
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A full-length mirror or a friendly helper if you have one.
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The underwear you actually wear when presenting feminine (this changes how garments will sit).
General tips before we start
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Wear the underwear you’ll wear with the clothes — bras/pads affect proportions.
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Keep the tape horizontal for all circumferences (use the mirror or a friend to check). Imagine the tape is a tight but polite hug: snug enough to follow the shape, not squeezed to oblivion.
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Stand relaxed with your feet together for consistent measurements.
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Note each measurement in centimetres and inches if you like — but stick to one when comparing to listings. Download the helpful Measurement Chart, with added space to add your size.
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Laugh if you trip over the tape. I do.
How to Use Your Personal Measurements when buying Corvella Clothes
There are many different types of fabric, but basically fabric is either woven (no give) or has an element of Elastane (stretchy).
When you have your circumference measurements, bust, waist, hip and bicep you need to allow approx 2"/5cm for "ease" for woven (non stretchy) clothing. Ease allows you to move about without discomfort, it means seams should not split when you sit down etc.
So for example if your bust measures 42"/106cm, choose woven fabric pieces that measures at 44"/111cm. If the fabric has stretch, then choosing a piece that has a bust of 42"/106cm should be fine. Do the same for all your circumference measurements, bust, waist, hips and don't forget your bicep, nothing worse than not being able to get your arm through a sleeve.
Step-by-step measurements
1. Bust (fullest part)
Measure the fullest part of your chest across the bust, keeping the tape level around the back. Breathe normally — don’t puff the chest or hold your breath. If you use padding or a bra, wear them while measuring.
2. Waist (natural)
Find your natural waist (the softest point where your torso bends), usually above the belly button. Wrap the tape snugly around that point, level all the way around.
3. Hip (fullest part)
With feet together, measure around the fullest part of your hips and butt. That’s usually 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) below the waist, but check in the mirror to find the widest point.
4. Bicep (circumference)
Measure around the widest part of your upper arm with the arm relaxed. This helps with sleeve widths and fitted jackets.
If you’re using string instead of a tape measure
Wrap the string where you would the tape, mark or pinch the overlap, then lay the string flat against a ruler. Measure carefully — string can stretch if you tug it, so be gentle.
A few cheeky realities
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Yes, you’ll likely need to wriggle a bit. That’s normal.
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Measurements can change day-to-day (hydration, food, mood). Don’t stress — use them as a reliable guide, not as a judge.
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If you’re between sizes for a particular measurement, choose the larger measurement for a comfortable fit; tailoring and minor adjustments are easier than being squeezed.
What to do with your measurements
Write them clearly on a note or in your phone, and keep them handy when shopping. On Corvella.Online, every item is measured and photographed so you can compare your numbers to the garment’s actual dimensions — giving you the confidence to click “buy”.