How to Measure Your Natural Waistline for an Open Bust Corset

Have you ever ordered clothing online? If you're living in the 21st century, chances are you have. There's nothing like the excitement of seeing that package arrive and trying your new outfit on immediately. But one of the worst feelings? Realizing it's too big or too small.

If you are going to invest in an open bust corset, measuring your natural waistline is important to get the perfect fit. An open bust corset should feel snug, like a too-tight hug from Grandpa Tom. Here's everything you need to know about measuring your waist to choose the right open bust corset size!

Parts of Your Body

We size open bust corsets based on different areas of your midsection:A – UnderbustB – WaistC – HipD – Torso LengthToday we're on part B and making this a smooth sail! Your body type is pretty huge when measuring your waist. Measurement will get quite hard on yourself if you are a curvy queen full-figured instead of a straight one. If possible, get your trusted friend or partner to assist you. It can get them more accurate.

Measuring Your Waist

Measuring your waist can be a bit tricky, and relying on online guides is sometimes the worst. Most say take it around the narrowest part of your torso. But the truth is, some people's torsos are straighter and cannot really tell where exactly is the narrowest.

Universal Bend TestWant to know the secret to measuring your waist for an open bust corset? The universal bend test is the best and most reliable method. Bend to one side, then the other.Notice the area that pinches when you lean — that's your natural waistline. Use a loose vinyl measuring tape to wrap around this area. If you have a friend helping, have them wrap the tape around your waist, making sure the starting end is in front. They'll wrap it around the pinched area until the other end meets the starting point.Selecting the Right FitOpen bust corsets are sized in inches. The number you get from your waist measurement will be the size of the open bust corset when fully closed. It would make sense to get an open bust corset a few inches bigger than your natural waist, but the opposite is actually true.We recommend choosing an open bust corset about four inches smaller than your natural waist measurement. For instance, if your waist is 30 inches, go for a 26-inch open bust corset.Remember, an open bust corset is meant to give you that "snatched" waistline — think Rose from Titanic. If it feels snug and supportive, you've got the right size! Plus, wearing an open bust corset can help a dress fit perfectly and even ease anxiety.