I used a tape measure, and entered the most current, accurate numbers... even the thighs. I'm not vain... being a poet as well as an artist, I know that beauty isn't measured by conformation to anybody's ideal. And if clothes are to fit, they need to be loose enough to sit down in without splitting. Over the years, I've ordered many things from LandsEnd. They offered incredible value on cashmere turtlenecks (especially when they had the tunic-length models which look good on a 5'-10" frame and cover up my butt). Warm and sturdy flannel pyjamas. Slippers. I never ordered jeans, because that really is something I have to try on, but everything else fits well and wears well. Carolly