ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Bust/waist/hip measurements

Have you ever tried on clothes that just didn't fit quite right? Maybe the shirt was too tight around your tummy, or the pants were too big in some places and too small in others. One way to help you find clothes that will fit better is to know your bust, waist, and hip measurements.

Your bust is the measurement around the fullest part of your chest. This is usually the part where your nipples are. Your waist is the smallest part of your middle, usually between your ribcage and belly button. And your hips are the widest part of your bottom, where your leg and butt muscles are.

Knowing these measurements can help you pick out clothes that will fit you better because different clothing brands might have different sizing charts. For example, a size 8 at one brand might fit someone with a 36 inch bust and a 29 inch waist, while a size 8 at another brand might fit someone with a 38 inch bust and a 30 inch waist.

So the next time you're shopping for clothes, ask someone to help you measure your bust, waist, and hips so you can find clothes that will fit you just right.