Complete Guide to Finding Your Perfect Skirt Size

There's nothing more frustrating than ordering a skirt online only to find it doesn't fit properly. Too tight around the waist, too loose at the hips, or simply the wrong length—we've all been there. This comprehensive guide will teach you exactly how to measure yourself, understand sizing charts, and ensure you find your perfect fit every single time.

Why Proper Measurement Matters

Before you dismiss this section as something you already know, consider this: studies show that approximately 80% of women are wearing the wrong size in at least one area of their wardrobe. With skirts, the stakes are particularly high because an ill-fitting skirt can be uncomfortable, unflattering, and ultimately unworn—a waste of both money and wardrobe space.

Proper measurements are your insurance policy against bad purchases. They take just a few minutes to obtain but will serve you for years, guiding every clothing purchase you make. Even as your body naturally fluctuates, knowing how to measure means you can quickly update your numbers and continue shopping with confidence.

The Tools You Need

Before we begin measuring, gather these essential items:

• A flexible measuring tape: The soft fabric kind used for sewing, not a rigid metal tape measure
• A mirror: Full-length is ideal, but any mirror that lets you see your midsection works
• Fitted clothing or underwear: Measure over thin, form-fitting clothes or underwear for accuracy
• A notepad: Write down your measurements immediately so you don't forget

How to Measure Your Waist

Your waist measurement is crucial for skirts, especially those with fitted waistbands. Here's how to find it accurately:

1. Stand up straight with your feet together and relax your stomach—don't suck in or push out
2. Locate your natural waist by bending sideways. The crease that forms is your natural waistline, typically the narrowest part of your torso
3. Wrap the measuring tape around your natural waist, keeping it parallel to the floor
4. Ensure the tape is snug but not tight—you should be able to slip one finger underneath
5. Take the measurement and write it down

Note: Many modern skirts sit at the low waist or high hip rather than the natural waist. If you know a skirt sits lower, you may also want to measure at the point where the waistband will actually sit.

How to Measure Your Hips

For skirts, hip measurement determines how the fabric will drape over your curves. This is particularly important for A-line and fitted styles.

1. Stand with your feet together and look straight ahead
2. Find the fullest part of your hips and bottom—this is usually about 20cm below your natural waist
3. Wrap the measuring tape around this fullest point, keeping it parallel to the floor
4. Check in the mirror that the tape hasn't ridden up at the back
5. Record this measurement

Measuring Skirt Length

Length is a personal preference, but it's helpful to know what measurements correspond to different skirt styles:

• Mini skirts: Typically fall 35-45cm from the waist, sitting well above the knee
• Above-knee: Usually 45-50cm from waist, hitting just above the kneecap
• Knee-length: Approximately 55-60cm, hitting at or just below the knee

To determine your ideal mini skirt length, stand in front of a mirror and use your measuring tape to measure from your natural waist down to where you'd like the hem to fall. Most women find mini skirts most flattering when they hit at the mid-thigh point, which is roughly 15-20cm above the knee.

Understanding Australian Sizing

Australian clothing sizes differ from American and European systems. Here's a general guide to Australian women's sizing for skirts:

Size 6 (XXS): Waist 60cm, Hip 84cm
Size 8 (XS): Waist 64cm, Hip 88cm
Size 10 (S): Waist 68cm, Hip 92cm
Size 12 (M): Waist 72cm, Hip 96cm
Size 14 (L): Waist 76cm, Hip 100cm
Size 16 (XL): Waist 80cm, Hip 104cm
Size 18 (XXL): Waist 84cm, Hip 108cm

Important note: These are general guidelines. Sizing varies significantly between brands—always check the specific brand's size guide before purchasing.

International Size Conversions

When shopping from international brands, you'll need to convert sizes. Here are the most common conversions:

Australian 6: US 2, UK 6, EU 32
Australian 8: US 4, UK 8, EU 34
Australian 10: US 6, UK 10, EU 36
Australian 12: US 8, UK 12, EU 38
Australian 14: US 10, UK 14, EU 40
Australian 16: US 12, UK 16, EU 42

Brand-Specific Sizing Tips

Based on our testing and reader feedback, here are some general observations about popular Australian brands:

• Cotton On: Tends to run true to size, sometimes slightly generous
• Glassons: Generally true to size with good stretch in jersey pieces
• Bardot: Can run small; consider sizing up if between sizes
• Forever New: True to size, premium fit and finish
• Showpo: Varies by item; check reviews carefully
• ASOS: Generally true to Australian sizing

What to Do When You're Between Sizes

If your measurements put you between two sizes, consider these factors:

• Fabric: If the skirt has stretch (elastane/spandex), size down. For non-stretch fabrics, size up
• Style: For bodycon styles, many prefer the smaller size for a sleek fit. For A-line, the larger size ensures comfortable movement
• Waistband type: Elastic waistbands are more forgiving; size down if you prefer a fitted look
• Personal preference: Some prefer a looser fit for comfort, others like a more fitted silhouette

The Importance of Return Policies

Even with perfect measurements, sometimes clothes simply don't work. Always check return policies before purchasing, especially when trying a new brand. Look for:

• Free returns or exchanges
• Reasonable return windows (at least 14-30 days)
• Original tags requirement—keep tags on until you've tried the item

Storing Your Measurements

Keep your measurements somewhere easily accessible—in your phone's notes app, on a card in your wallet, or in a small notebook in your handbag. Update them every six months or whenever you notice significant body changes. This simple habit will save you countless returns and exchanges over time.

Finding your perfect skirt size isn't complicated, but it does require a little effort upfront. Take the time to measure accurately, understand size charts, and note how different brands fit your body. Your reward will be a wardrobe full of skirts that fit beautifully and make you feel confident every time you wear them.