YOUR BODY SIZE VS. INDUSTRY SIZES

Here is a fantastic web app created by web developer Anna Powell-Smith.

What Size Am I? allows you to get a visual image of where your body measurements stand in regards to standardized body sizes used in the clothing industry. [note: wait a little for the app to load]

You simply need to move the top sliders to your own bust, waist, and hips measurements, which creates your personal curve.

Then you can select a mainstream brand on the right, and see how their measurement system relates to you ( in yellow the company you choose / in light grey in the background, all the other companies).

I love the easiness and clarity of this tool.

Body measurements are being so ill-treated and used in the media to define arbitrary ideals, that it's a relief to have a publicly available visualization tool that tells things just the way they are.

Also, you see that the industry does not have one standard, but so many different ones that the idea your body should fit certain criteria begins to crumble (and many fitting room crisis become explained).

I wish this tool was used more widely and that we could feed it with more brands - not only mainstream ones but also ethical / local clothing companies, and for both genders. The possibilities are so exciting.

For more information: Anna's own words here.