How to measure yourself
the right way
Five measurements. Five minutes. The difference between leggings that stay up and leggings that don't. Read this before you order anything.
Why your measurements matter more than your size
The biggest mistake plus-size women make when ordering activewear online is using their clothing size instead of their measurements. A "2X" from one brand can measure 3–4 inches differently at the hip than a "2X" from another. And because every product on Azalea Couture comes from a specific supplier with its own sizing, the only number that reliably predicts fit is your measurement in inches — compared directly to the garment measurements on each product listing.
Forget the size label. Measure yourself today, write the numbers down, and use them every time you shop here.
What you'll need
A soft fabric tape measure — not a metal ruler or a rigid dressmaker's tape. Most fabric stores sell them for under $2. If you don't have one, a tailor or seamstress can measure you for free.
A helper if possible — self-measuring, especially at the hips and back, often produces results 1–2 inches off. The accuracy difference is significant. If you can get someone else to take your measurements, do it.
Your workout underwear — measure in the underwear you'd actually wear to train. Not a padded bra, not compression shorts you don't normally wear. What you'll actually have on under the leggings.
Step by step — exactly how to do each one
Natural Waist
The narrowest point of your torso — typically 1–2 inches above your belly button. Bend gently to one side; the crease that forms is your natural waist. Wrap the tape around that point, keep it parallel to the floor, and breathe out naturally before reading. Do not suck in — your leggings need to fit you breathing normally.
Hips
Stand with feet together. Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat — typically 7–9 inches below your natural waist. This is almost always your most critical measurement for legging fit. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and don't pull it tight — flush against the body, no compression.
Inseam
Stand barefoot and measure from your crotch seam straight down to the floor (or your preferred length). A full-length legging on a 5'10" body hits below the ankle on a 5'2" body. Knowing your inseam tells you exactly where any style will fall on your leg before you order.
Bust
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, parallel to the floor. Snug but not compressing — you should be able to slip one finger underneath. For bra tops, also measure your underbust — directly under your breasts. Both numbers together determine the right bra top size and support level.
Thigh
Around the fullest part of your upper thigh, about 1 inch below your crotch. Critical for bike shorts and fitted styles — shorts that fit at the hip but are too tight at the thigh will ride up constantly. Check this one if you're ordering any short style.
Waistband height — why it matters more than you think
Every brand says "high waist." Not every brand means the same thing. A "high-waist" label can refer to anything from 2 inches to 7 inches above the hip depending on the supplier — which means the same style description can sit at your natural waist on one pair and at your midriff on another.
We list the exact waistband height in inches on every legging. Here's how to use that number:
Measure from your hip bone to your natural waist
Put one finger on your hip bone (the bony point on the side of your body) and measure straight up to your natural waist. This is typically 4–6 inches for most bodies, but varies significantly.
Compare to the listed waistband height on the product
If the product lists a 6" waistband height and your hip-to-waist distance is 5", the waistband will sit about 1 inch above your natural waist — a true high-waist fit. If your distance is 3", it will sit 3 inches above your natural waist — more of a super high-rise. Neither is wrong — but knowing in advance means no surprises.
For a waistband that stays up — prioritize the hip measurement
The most common reason a waistband rolls is that the hip is too tight, forcing the band to fold. Always order to your hip measurement first. A slightly larger waistband that sits at the right hip size will hold far better than a technically "correct" waist size that fights your hips all day.
How to use them on every product listing
Once you have your measurements, here's exactly how to use them on Azalea Couture product pages:
Find the measurements table on the product page
Every listing includes the actual finished garment measurements — not a generic chart. Look for the size whose finished measurements are closest to your body with a little room to move.
Compare your inches to the garment inches — not the size label
If your hip is 50" and the 2X has a finished hip of 52", you have 2" of ease — secure and comfortable. If the finished hip is 48", it won't pull up. Always look at the inches. The size number tells you nothing.
Check the stretch percentage
Every listing includes the fabric's stretch percentage. A 40% stretch fabric accommodates more size variation than a 20% stretch fabric. Higher stretch = more forgiving. If you're between sizes, prioritize higher-stretch styles.
When between sizes — always go up
Activewear that's slightly large moves with you. Activewear that's too small restricts movement and is uncomfortable for hours. Go up. The stretch takes care of the rest.
Top and bottom different sizes? Order them separately
All our tops and bottoms are sold individually. Order a L bra top and a 2X legging in the same print — they'll match. No forcing your whole body into one size to get a coordinated set. If you need help figuring out which sizes to pair, contact us.
What goes wrong — and how to avoid it
Measuring over clothing
Even thin fabric adds 1–2 inches. Always measure in your workout underwear — the same layer you'll actually wear under the leggings.
Pulling the tape too tight
Your measurement should reflect your body at rest, not compressed. If it leaves a mark on your skin, it's too tight. Snug — not tight.
Measuring the hips too high
Most people measure where they feel their hip bones rather than the fullest part of their seat. Go lower — 7 to 9 inches below the waist — and find the true fullest point.
Skipping the inseam
The most overlooked measurement for leggings. A style that hits perfectly on one height can look completely different on another. Always know your inseam.
Using last year's measurements
Bodies change — especially if you're active. Re-measure every time you order, especially if it's been more than a few months. Most overlooked step.
Going by your clothing size
A 2X from one brand fits like a 3X from another. Your clothing size is irrelevant here. Inches only — always compare to the garment measurements on each listing.
More sizing help on this site
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