How to Measure for a Corset: A Step-by-Step Guide

Measuring for a corset is essential to getting the right fit. Without accurate measurements, a corset may be uncomfortable, ineffective, or even harmful. Whether you're buying an off-the-rack piece or one of our specialized waist trainers for women, precise sizing ensures comfort and performance.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

Corsets are structured garments, and unlike regular clothing, they do not stretch or conform to your body. For example, a well-fitted black leather corset top requires more than just choosing your usual shirt size—it demands actual body measurements.

What You Need Before Measuring

Before you start, use a soft fabric measuring tape. If possible, have someone assist you, especially when sizing for garments like our overbust corsets that require accurate bust-to-hip proportions.

Measuring Key Areas for a Corset

1. Measuring Your Natural Waist

This is the narrowest part of your torso. To ensure your underbust corset fits snugly, wrap the measuring tape without pulling too tight.

2. Measuring Your Underbust

For structured designs like our leather corsets, the underbust measurement determines how comfortably the corset hugs your ribcage.

3. Measuring Your Bust

This measurement is crucial when shopping for overbust corsets, especially for full-coverage and support.

4. Measuring Your Upper Hip

Essential when choosing styles that extend below the waist, like our plus-size corsets, which offer additional support and shaping around the hips.

5. Measuring Your Torso Length

Torso length helps determine whether you need a short, regular, or long corset. Our green corset collection includes various styles to suit different body types and torso lengths.

Choosing the Right Corset Size

After finding your natural waist, subtract 4–5 inches for a daily fit or 6–7 inches for waist training. A size 24 corset, such as one from our black corsets collection, would suit someone with a 28-inch waist.

Always cross-check your underbust and hip measurements to ensure the corset—especially structured styles like those in our white corsets range—fits your body’s natural shape.

Understanding Corset Lengths

• Short Corsets (8–9 inches): Best for petite frames or cinchers like those in our red corsets collection.
• Regular Corsets (11–12 inches): Found in most classic designs like our overbust styles.
• Long Corsets (13–14 inches): Perfect for taller individuals or those needing extra hip support, like our plus-size corsets.

How to Measure a Corset’s Size

If you own a corset—perhaps from our popular black corset collection—lay it flat and measure across the waistline. Remember, most corsets allow for a 1.5–2 inch gap in back lacing.

Common Mistakes When Measuring

• Measuring over bulky clothes
• Sucking in your stomach
• Skipping torso length
• Ignoring hip and rib measurements—vital for a proper fit, especially in specialty items like our white corsets

Final Thoughts

Getting the right corset fit isn’t about guesswork—it’s about precision. Whether you’re choosing from our underbust collection or investing in a timeless piece from our leather corsets line, accurate measurements lead to comfort, confidence, and a cinched silhouette that works with your body—not against it.

At Lara Leather, corsets are more than just fashion—they’re tradition. From handcrafted red corsets to curve-defining waist trainers for women, every stitch is a promise of quality and comfort.