Body Measurement Converter
Convert body measurements between inches and centimeters. Used for shopping online, following size charts, and tailoring clothing.
Formula
centimeters = inches × 2.54 inches = centimeters ÷ 2.54
How to Measure Your Body
Use a soft measuring tape. Keep it snug against the body but not tight. Measure over underwear or light clothing for best accuracy.
Chest / Bust
Measure around the fullest part of the chest, keeping the tape horizontal across the shoulder blades and under the arms.
Waist
Measure around the narrowest part of the natural waistline, usually just above the navel. Keep the tape relaxed, not pulled tight.
Hips
Measure around the fullest part of the hips and buttocks, keeping the tape level all the way around.
Inseam
Measure from the top of the inner thigh to the bottom of the ankle, or take the measurement from a pair of well-fitting trousers.
Sleeve Length
Measure from the shoulder bone, over the slightly bent elbow, to the wrist bone.
Common Body Measurement Conversions
| Inches | Centimeters | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 24 | 60.96 | Very small waist |
| 26 | 66.04 | XS women's waist |
| 28 | 71.12 | S women's waist |
| 30 | 76.20 | M women's waist / men's trouser waist |
| 32 | 81.28 | L women's waist / men's trouser waist |
| 34 | 86.36 | XL women's waist / men's waist |
| 36 | 91.44 | Men's trouser waist |
| 38 | 96.52 | Men's trouser waist |
| 40 | 101.60 | Men's trouser waist |
| 42 | 106.68 | Men's trouser waist |
| 44 | 111.76 | Men's trouser waist |
| 46 | 116.84 | Men's trouser waist |
Bust / Chest Reference
| Inches | Centimeters | Typical size (women's) |
|---|---|---|
| 30 | 76.20 | XS |
| 32 | 81.28 | XS |
| 34 | 86.36 | S |
| 36 | 91.44 | M |
| 38 | 96.52 | L |
| 40 | 101.60 | L |
| 42 | 106.68 | XL |
| 44 | 111.76 | XL |
| 46 | 116.84 | XXL |
Real-World Uses
- Online shopping: Size charts from different countries use different units. Converting your measurements to the correct unit prevents ordering the wrong size.
- Tailoring: Custom clothing requires accurate measurements in the units the tailor uses.
- Fitness tracking: Body measurements are often tracked in inches in the US and centimeters elsewhere.
- Medical records: Body measurements are documented in both units depending on the country.
- Sports: Athlete measurements (reach, wingspan, chest) are quoted in inches in US sports and centimeters internationally.
Practical Tips
- Measure yourself in the morning, before eating, for consistency.
- Have someone help you for measurements you cannot easily see (back, neck).
- Use a soft tape measure, not a stiff ruler.
- Keep the tape parallel to the floor for horizontal measurements.
- Do not pull the tape tight — it should sit comfortably against the skin.
- Measure twice to ensure consistency.
Related Converters
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you convert inches to centimeters for body measurements?
Multiply by 2.54. For example, 32 inches × 2.54 = 81.28 cm.
How do you convert centimeters to inches?
Divide by 2.54. For example, 90 cm ÷ 2.54 = 35.43 inches.
What size is a 32-inch waist in centimeters?
32 inches = 81.28 cm.
How do you measure your waist?
Measure around the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the navel. Keep the tape level and snug but not tight.
Should body measurements be taken in inches or centimeters?
Either works. Most international size charts use centimeters; US size charts use inches. Convert to whichever unit the chart you are using requires.