How to Measure Yourself

We're all unique and our bodies are all very different. The best way to find the right size for you is with your measurements.

We came up with our size chart through a lot of testing and tweaking. We’ve tried our clothing out on a ton of different people, different body shapes and sizes. Because everybody is unique and different, what fits great on one person may not be the same for another so it’s important to remember to find what’s best for you personally.


To find the best size, we recommend you use your measurements and find that sweet spot using our size chart. We always recommend you get someone to help you take your measurements. It’s easier and you get more accurate and precise measurements this way. If you take your own measurements, we recommend you do it in front of a mirror so you can have a better view of how you’re measuring everything all the way around.


If you’re on the borderline between two sizes, order the smaller size for a tighter fit or stronger compression. Choose the larger size for a looser fit. When it comes to compression tops a looser fit will not allow the compression materials to give you a strong hold, just keep that in mind when deciding what size would work best for you.

Chest Measurement

When you’re looking to get a top, start with your chest measurement. Take your chest measurement at the widest part of your chest. Place the tape measure in the center of your chest at the widest point. This is usually right above your nipples. Wrap the tape measure all the way around your back, going under your armpits and making sure the tape measure stays untwisted and horizontal. Pull the tape measure up against your skin but don’t pull it too tight. Leave enough space of about a finger between the tape measure and yourself where the tape measure end marks your final measurement. Make sure your arms aren’t raised as raised arms may change the measurement.

Under Bust Measurement

If you’re looking at getting a mid-drift top like the Swimmee or a sports top like the Granate, it helps to also use your under bust measurement for guidance in choosing a size. Place the tape measure around your ribcage, approximately over your last 2 ribs. Wrap the tape measure all the way around your back making sure the tape measure stays untwisted and horizontal. Remember to pull the tape measure up against your skin but don’t pull it too tight. With this measurement we also recommend you try to keep your arms down as much as possible as raised arms do change the final measurement.

Waist Measurement

To get your waist measurement, find your natural waist. Your natural waist is where your waist is smallest, usually about an inch or two above your belly button and right before your rib cage. Try not to take this measurement over jeans or think material. Hold the end of the tape measure in the front and wrap the rest of the tape measure around your back. Keep the tape measure a little loose by placing a finder between it and your body.

For bottoms that are low rise (like the Tomboier) take the waist measurement right above your hip bones, around an inch or so below your belly button.

Hip Measurement

To get your hip measurement, wrap the tape measure around the area where your hips are the widest. Like with your waist measurement, make sure you’re not wearing thick clothing when you take this measurement. The widest part of the hips can be different on each person, so it may take a couple of tires to figure out the correct placement for the measuring tape. Make sure you keep the tape measure horizontal and never at an angle.

Inseam Measurement

The inseam measurement runs from the crotch down to where you want the bottoms to end. This measurement can be a little tricky to do on your own so if you can, find a friend to help. Place the tape measure right at your crotch, up against one leg. Drag the tape measure down your thigh to the measurement you’re looking at aiming for. This measurement will give you a visual as to how long our board shorts will fall on you.

If you don’t have someone who can help you at that moment, you can also measure the inseam of a pair of bottoms that fit you the way you like. Lay the pants out flat, then measure from the center crotch down the pant/short leg, along the inseam.

We hope this helps. If you need help finding the best size for you, don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@shopoutplay.com


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