You measure hip curves by finding the fullest part of your hips and measuring horizontally around that point, keeping the tape measure parallel to the floor.
Here's a breakdown of how to accurately measure your hip circumference:
-
Find the Widest Point: Stand in front of a mirror to help you identify the point where your hips or buttocks are at their widest. This is usually a few inches below your waist.
-
Prepare the Tape Measure: Use a flexible, non-stretchable measuring tape. Make sure it's not twisted or folded.
-
Wrap the Tape: Wrap the tape measure around your hips at the fullest point, ensuring it's parallel to the floor. The tape should be snug but not too tight, you shouldn't be compressing your skin.
-
Read the Measurement: Look in the mirror to make sure the tape measure is still level and that you have the correct point. Note the measurement where the end of the tape measure meets the rest of the tape.
-
Record the Measurement: Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters. This is your hip measurement.
Why Accuracy Matters:
An accurate hip measurement is important for:
- Clothing Fit: Ensuring clothes fit properly, especially when ordering online or using sewing patterns.
- Tracking Changes: Monitoring changes in body size due to weight gain, weight loss, or muscle growth.
- Health Monitoring: Ratios like waist-to-hip ratio can be indicators of health risks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Holding the Tape Too Tight: This can compress the tissue and result in an artificially small measurement.
- Tape Measure Not Parallel to the Floor: This will skew the measurement.
- Measuring at the Wrong Point: Make sure you're measuring at the fullest part of your hips, not higher or lower.
By following these steps, you can accurately measure your hip curves for various purposes.
