A little measuring makes choosing your next piece easier. Use this guide alongside the Size Chart for the exact product you want. Measurements and fit can vary between styles, even when the size label is the same.
Read the chart · Measure your body · Measure a garment · CM & inches · Choose your fit · Get help
How do I use the product Size Chart?
- Open the product page and select Size Chart. Check the description for additional fit notes.
- Check the units, the measurements included and whether the chart describes body measurements or product/garment measurements.
- Compare like with like, using the same measuring points and units.
- Check every measurement relevant to that style before selecting your size.
Body measurements describe your body. Compare them with a chart specifically labeled for body measurements.
Product or garment measurements describe the clothing itself. Compare them with a similar garment you own that fits comfortably. A garment measurement does not automatically equal the body measurement it will fit.
If a chart’s labels, range or measuring method are unclear, contact us before ordering.
How should I measure my body?
Use a flexible measuring tape over underwear or a light, close-fitting layer. Stand naturally, breathe normally and keep the tape level. It should rest against your body without digging in. Check each measurement twice and record the units.
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Bust: Measure all the way around the fullest part of your bust, with the tape level across your back.
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Underbust, when requested: Measure around your rib cage directly beneath your bust. This is a separate measurement from your full bust and does not, by itself, determine cup size.
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Natural waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist, usually above your belly button. Keep your stomach relaxed.
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Hips: Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat.
If the product instructions specify a different waist position or another body measurement, follow those instructions. Ask someone to help if keeping the tape level is difficult.
How do I measure a garment I already own?
Choose a similar style and fit. Fasten it as worn, lay it flat on a level surface and smooth it gently. Do not stretch it unless the chart specifically calls for a stretched measurement. Match the product chart’s measuring points.
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Bust or chest width: When the chart specifies a flat width, measure across the garment at the indicated chest level, often from underarm to underarm.
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Waist or hip width: Measure straight across at the exact point shown. A waistband measurement and a natural-waist measurement can refer to different positions.
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Shoulder width: If measured seam to seam, measure across the back from one shoulder seam to the other. Dropped shoulders and other constructions may use different points.
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Sleeve length: Follow the specified starting point. Shoulder-seam-to-cuff and center-back-neck-to-cuff measurements are different.
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Top or dress length: Check whether the chart starts at the shoulder, neckline or top edge, and whether straps are included. Measure to the stated hem point.
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Skirt or trouser length: Follow the chart’s waistband-to-hem method. If inseam is listed, measure along the inside leg seam from the crotch seam to the hem.
Flat width and circumference are different. Only double a flat width when the chart confirms it represents half the circumference. For example, a stated half-waist width of 35 cm corresponds to a garment waist circumference of 70 cm. This is a measurement example, not a size recommendation.
If “length” has no defined starting and finishing points, ask us to clarify. Photos alone cannot establish the measurement.
How do I convert centimeters and inches?
1 inch = 2.54 cm.
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Inches to centimeters: Multiply by 2.54. For example, 30 in = 76.2 cm.
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Centimeters to inches: Divide by 2.54. For example, 90 cm ≈ 35.43 in.
Use one unit throughout your comparison. Converted values may be rounded; avoid rounding your own measurement before comparing. Unit conversion does not convert a size label into a different sizing system.
Which measurements matter for my chosen style?
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Corset tops and bustiers: Check bust, waist and length, plus underbust if supplied. Follow any cup or closure guidance. Do not assume lacing, hooks or straps provide an adjustment range unless the product states one.
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Dresses: Check the measurements provided for bust, waist, hips and length. Consider the areas where the design sits closest to your body.
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Tops and long-sleeved styles: Check bust, shoulders, sleeves and length where listed.
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Skirts and bottoms: Check waist, hips, rise, length and inseam where listed, including where the waistband is intended to sit.
Fit and fabric notes: Use the product’s stated information about a close, relaxed or oversized silhouette, stretch and adjustability. Fabric names and photos alone do not establish stretch. Do not choose a smaller size on the assumption that a garment will stretch to fit.
What if I am between sizes?
Review all relevant measurements and the product’s fit notes. Avoid choosing solely from your usual size, one measurement or a general “size up” rule. If different measurements point to different sizes, or a close fit leaves little room for comfort, contact us with the product link and your measurements before ordering.
Where a chart gives a manual-measurement allowance, read it alongside the measurements. That allowance is not extra wearing room or a reason to add or subtract a fixed amount from your size.
Other sizing questions
Can I order the same size in every style?
Check each product separately. Size labels, proportions and fit can vary, including between pieces that look similar.
What does “One Size” mean?
It means the item is offered in one size option. Check its actual measurements and any stated adjustment range to decide whether it suits you.
What if a measurement is missing or the chart will not open?
Send us the product link and tell us what you need to confirm. Please check with us rather than borrowing measurements from another product.
What if the size I ordered does not work for me?
See our Return & Refund Policy for eligibility, timing and instructions. Contact us before sending an item back.
Need help choosing?
Email support@hearthandwhim.com or use our Contact page. Include:
- The product link and size you are considering
- Your relevant measurements and units, noting whether they are body or garment measurements
- The fit you prefer and the measurement or chart detail you want to clarify
We respond within 1–2 business hours.
Before checkout, confirm the product, selected size and color. For other order questions, visit our FAQ.
