Sizing + Fit Guide
Finding the right fit should be the easiest part of shopping. We know swimwear and sizing can feel complicated — cuts vary by brand, sizing runs differently, and what works for a bikini top is different from what works for a one-piece. That's why we put this guide together.
At The Salty Babe, our team fits women every day across both our Newport and Kailua locations. This guide is built from real fitting experience — the same advice we give our in-store customers, now available online. When in doubt, our team is always happy to help. Reach us at info@saltybabe.com
How to Measure
Before you check a size chart, you need three measurements. Grab a soft measuring tape anda friend if you can, self-measuring is tricky.
BUST
Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the ground. Don't pull it tight — you want a natural, relaxed fit.
WAIST
Measure around your natural waist — the narrowest part of your torso, usually just
above your belly button.
HIP
Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, usually about 7–8 inches below
your natural waist.
Swimwear Sizing
| Size | Bust | Waist | Hips | US Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 32-34" | 24-26" | 34-36" | 0-2 |
| S | 34-36" | 26-28" | 36-38" | 4-6 |
| M | 36-38" | 28-30" | 38-40" | 8-10 |
| L | 38-40" | 30-32" | 40-42" | 12-14 |
| XL | 40-42" | 32-34" | 42-44" | 16-18 |
Bikini Fit Notes
Bikini tops size differently from clothing — the band size and cup volume both matter. Here's how to find your best fit:
- If you're between sizes, size up for the top and down for the bottom.
- Underwire tops: fit closer to your bra size. If you wear a 34B bra, an S or M will likely work.
- Triangle tops: more adjustable. Most styles work across a range — go by your preferred coverage.
- If you have a larger bust (D+ cup), look for brands with underwire or built-in support: Seafolly, Carve Designs, and Maaji have strong options.
- Bandeau tops: go by waist/rib cage measurement, not cup size.
Bikini bottoms are all about your unique shape, torso length, and how much coverage makes you feel most confident. Here’s how to find your best fit:
- If you're between sizes: Size down for a firmer, secure fit in the water, or size up if you prefer a softer fit that doesn't dig into your hips.
- Coverage styles: Go by your comfort level. Brazilian and cheeky cuts are designed to sit higher on the hip and show more skin, while full-coverage bottoms offer a traditional, stable fit.
- High-waisted bottoms: Go by your true natural waist measurement. These are designed to hug your narrowest point and offer vintage-inspired sculpting and support.
- Tie-side bottoms: The most adjustable option. If you are blessed with wider hips or a fuller bum but a smaller waist, tie-sides allow you to customize the hip width perfectly.
- Pro-Fit Tip: Always check where the leg opening sits. A higher-cut leg openings elongates the legs and sits comfortably above the hip bone, while a straight-cut hip offers more active security.
One-Piece Fit Notes
One-pieces are sized by torso length as much as by bust or hip. Here's what to consider:
• If you're tall (5'8" and above), look for brands that offer tall or long-torso options. Carve
Designs and Seafolly have extended length styles.
• If you're petite (5'4" and under), most standard one-pieces will work — just size down if
you're between sizes.
• One-pieces with adjustable straps give you the most flexibility for fit across different
torso lengths.
• If your hips and bust are more than two sizes apart, look for mix-and-match styles where
you can combine different sizes for top and bottom.
Brand-Specific Sizing Notes
| Brand | How it runs | Our fit tip |
|---|---|---|
| L*Space | True to size | Go with your usual size. Great for hourglass figures. |
| Maaji | Slightly small | Size up one if between sizes. Adjustable ties help. |
| Rhythm | True to size, AU sizing | Rhythm is Australian. XS = US 2, S = US 4–6, M = US 8. |
| Kulani Kinis | True to size, generous coverage | Cheeky cuts — go up if you prefer more coverage. |
| Carve Designs | True to size, athletic fit | Great for active fit and larger busts. Compressive. |
| Seafolly | AU sizing, slightly generous | Size down one from your usual US size. |
| Billabong | True to size | Boardshort sizing is in waist inches — check waist chart. |
Clothing & Apparel Sizing
| Size | Bust | Waist | Hips | US Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 32-33" | 24-25" | 34-35" | 0-2 |
| S | 34-35" | 26-27" | 36-37" | 4-6 |
| M | 36-37" | 28-39" | 38-39" | 8-10 |
| L | 38-39" | 30-31" | 40-41" | 12-14 |
| XL | 40-41" | 32-33" | 42-43" | 16-18 |
Clothing Brand Notes
| Brand | Notes | Our Fit Tip |
|---|---|---|
| ZSupply | True to size, relaxedfit | Soft, flowy fabrics — goes with your normal size. |
| Free People | Varies by style | Check individual product notes. Flowy styles often sizeup. |
| Spell | AU sizing, true to size | Use the AU to US conversion: AU 8 = US XS/S, AU 10= US S/M. |
| Sabbi | True to size, fitted | Runs true but is a closer fit. Size up if you preferrelaxed. |
| Levi’s | By waist/inseam in inches | Use your standard denim measurements. |
Footwear Sizing
Footwear at The Salty Babe is sized in US women's sizes unless otherwise noted. Sandals generally fit true to size. If you're between sizes, go up for open-toe styles and down for strappy styles with adjustable buckles.
| US Women's | EU Size | UK Size |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 35-36 | 3 |
| 6 | 36-37 | 4 |
| 7 | 37-38 | 5 |
| 8 | 38-39 | 6 |
| 9 | 39-40 | 7 |
| 10 | 40-41 | 8 |
| 11 | 41-42 | 9 |