Have you ever filled your online shopping cart, hit “Buy Now”… only to feel completely deflated when it arrives and nothing fits right?
You’re not alone — and you’re definitely not doing it wrong.
The truth is, most women are shopping online without knowing their real measurements, and that’s a recipe for returns, frustration, and wasted money.
Today, we’re going to fix that.
I’ve Styled Over 1,000 Women — And This Trick Changes Everything
One of the most common struggles I hear from clients?
“Online shopping never works for me.”
But the truth is:
It can — once you know a few secrets.
Today, I’ll walk you through:
- How to properly measure your body using just a tape measure
- How to use those numbers when shopping online
- My top 5 stylist-approved tips for buying the right size and style
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Know Your Key Measurements
To shop confidently online, you only need 3 key measurements:
- Bust
- Waist
- Hips
That’s it! No fancy tools, no guesswork — just a tape measure and a mirror.
How to Measure Your Bust
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust.
Not too tight, not too loose.
Stylist Tip: Wear the bra you normally wear under fitted clothing.
How to Measure Your Waist
This is your natural waist, not where your jeans sit.
Find the narrowest point — usually just above your belly button.
Stylist Tip: Bend side to side — where your body folds is your natural waist.
How to Measure Your Hips
This is the widest part of your lower body — around your bum and upper thighs.
Stand with your feet together and keep the tape straight.
Stylist Tip: Don’t pull the tape too tight — we want accuracy, not wishful thinking!
Step 2: Use These 5 Stylist Tips to Shop Smarter Online
Even with the right numbers, online shopping still has its tricks. Here are my go-to rules for success:
1. Check the Brand’s Size Guide — Always
Don’t rely on “I’m usually a 12.”
Different brands = different fit. Use your measurements to check their chart — especially with overseas stores.
2. Read Real Customer Reviews
Reviews are gold. Look for women who mention their body shape, height, or sizing.
“Runs small” or “super stretchy”? That’s the info you need.
3. Understand Fabrics
- Stretchy = forgiving (hello jersey, ponte, knits)
- Stiff = more exact fit (think denim or linen)
Stylist Tip: If in doubt, choose stretchy fabric for comfort and fit flexibility.
4. Save Your Measurements in Your Notes App
Bust, waist, hip, inseam — keep them handy. That way, you’re not guessing when you’re shopping from your phone in the school pickup line.
5. Order Two Sizes, Return One
If returns are free — use them.
Try two close sizes and send back the one that doesn’t work. It’s smarter than guessing and being disappointed.
Bonus Tip: Know Your Shape
The more you understand your body proportions, the easier online shopping becomes.
That’s why I always combine measurements with body shape analysis in my Ultimate Style Makeover program.
Ready to Shop With Confidence?
Taking your own measurements is one of the most empowering things you can do when it comes to style. It means you stop shopping based on a random number on a tag — and start shopping for your actual body.
And when you shop for the body you have right now?
That’s where the style magic happens.
Want Help Choosing the Right Styles for Your Shape?
If you’re done with shopping frustration and ready to feel confident in your clothes again, I’d love to help.
Click the button below to book your FREE Style Chat — and let’s talk about what’s working (and what’s not) in your wardrobe.
