Measure your hips before you choose panties
Short answer: Your hip measurement is usually what decides whether panties fit well. Measure around the widest part of the hips and compare it with the size guide before you choose. If you are between two sizes, go by the hips rather than the waist.
Why hip width is the measurement that matters
Many people choose panties by the size they usually wear, but sizes vary between models and brands. Hip width is a more reliable starting point, because panties have to sit around exactly that spot. If you measure first, you avoid both elastic that cuts in and panties that slide down.
How to measure your hips properly
Stand with your feet together and place a soft tape measure around the widest part of your hips and bottom. The tape should lie level all the way around and sit snugly without pressing. Write the measurement down in centimetres, and measure twice to be sure. You can measure over thin clothing.
Using the measurement on bamboo panties
Once you have your measurement, compare it with the size guide for bamboo panties. The guides differ from model to model, so always check the guide for the exact pair you are considering. If your measurement falls between two sizes, the fabric and cut of the model can help you decide.
Between two sizes
If your hips fall between two sizes, think about what you would rather avoid. When the fabric is stretchy, many people choose the smaller size for high-cut models and the larger size for low-cut ones. That is a suggestion and not a rule, so reason from how you usually like panties to fit.
Hips and waist are not the same
Your waist measurement says little about how panties sit, because on most models the elastic sits at or below the hip. If you have a narrow waist and wide hips, or the other way round, follow the hips. The waist can matter for high-waisted models, where the waistband sits higher up.
Cut and height change the fit
The same hip measurement can fit differently in a hipster, a brief and a thong, because the cut covers differently. High-waisted models also need a look at the waist. So read the description of the cut and think about how you want the pair to sit before you choose the size.
Try them on and check the fit
With the panties on, the elastic should lie flat without making an edge in the skin, and the leg openings should not press or roll up. Sit down and bend forward to feel whether they move. If they sit well in motion, they usually sit well all day.
Washing and size
Viscose from bamboo can change a little with washing and drying, so always follow the care label. Wash at the recommended temperature and avoid a hot tumble dryer if the label advises against it. That keeps the fit for as long as possible. A natural addition is all bamboo socks for women.
Frequently asked questions
Where do you measure your hips for panties
Measure around the widest part of the hips and bottom with a soft tape measure. The tape should lie level and sit snugly without pressing. Note it in centimetres and compare it with the size guide.
Should I choose by hips or waist
For most panties the hips are what count, because the elastic sits at or below them. For high-waisted models you can also look at the waist if you are unsure.
What if I am between two sizes
Check the size guide for that exact model and think about what you would rather avoid, tight elastic or panties that slide. If you are still unsure, compare the fabric and the cut, and see the women's long-sleeved bamboo T-shirt to complete the set.
