There's nothing more frustrating than receiving a beautiful bracelet only to discover it doesn't fit properly. A bracelet that's too tight will feel uncomfortable and restrict circulation, while one that's too loose will slide around, catch on things, and risk falling off entirely. Getting the right fit is essential for both comfort and style, and it all starts with accurate wrist measurement.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the professional technique for measuring your wrist, explain how different bracelet styles affect sizing, and help you avoid the common mistakes that lead to ill-fitting jewellery purchases.
What You'll Need
Before you begin measuring, gather these simple tools:
- Flexible measuring tape (like the kind used for sewing)
- Alternatively: A strip of paper or string, plus a rigid ruler
- A pen or marker to mark your measurement
If you don't have a flexible measuring tape, cut a strip of paper about 1cm wide and 25cm long. This works just as well and is more accurate than string, which can stretch.
Step-by-Step Measuring Guide
Step 1: Position Your Hand Correctly
Relax your hand and let it hang naturally at your side for a moment. Then, hold your arm out with your palm facing upward. Your hand should be relaxed—not clenched into a fist and not stretched flat. This natural position gives you the most accurate wrist circumference.
Step 2: Find Your Wrist Bone
Locate the wrist bone (ulnar styloid process) on the pinky side of your wrist. This is the small bony bump you can feel when you run your finger along the outside edge of your wrist. Most bracelets sit just below this bone, where your wrist naturally narrows.
Step 3: Wrap and Measure
Wrap your measuring tape (or paper strip) around your wrist, positioning it just below the wrist bone. The tape should sit flat against your skin without any gaps, but don't pull it tight. You should be able to slip one finger underneath comfortably.
If you're using a paper strip, mark where the paper overlaps, then lay it flat against a ruler to read your wrist circumference in centimetres or inches.
Step 4: Record Your Measurement
Write down your exact wrist measurement. For most adults, this will fall between 14cm and 20cm (5.5 to 8 inches). This measurement is your wrist size, not your bracelet size—we'll calculate that next.
- Measure below your wrist bone where bracelets naturally sit
- Keep the tape flat but not tight—one finger should fit underneath
- Record the exact measurement before calculating bracelet size
Calculating Your Bracelet Size
Your bracelet size is not the same as your wrist measurement. You need to add extra length for comfort, and the amount depends on how you prefer your bracelets to fit and what style you're buying.
Fit Preferences
- Snug fit: Add 0.5-1cm (0.25-0.5 inches) to your wrist measurement. The bracelet will sit close to your skin with minimal movement. Best for chain bracelets and bangles you don't want slipping.
- Comfortable fit: Add 1-2cm (0.5-0.75 inches). This is the most popular choice, allowing natural movement without the bracelet sliding too far up your arm.
- Loose fit: Add 2-2.5cm (0.75-1 inch). The bracelet will move freely on your wrist. Some people prefer this relaxed look, especially for beaded or leather styles.
Standard Bracelet Sizes in Australia
Most bracelet manufacturers use these standard sizes:
- Small (S): 16-17cm total length
- Medium (M): 18-19cm total length
- Large (L): 20-21cm total length
- Extra Large (XL): 22cm+ total length
If you're buying a charm bracelet like a Pandora Moments, remember that adding charms increases the bracelet's weight and changes how it sits. Consider going slightly smaller than usual, as a heavier bracelet will naturally slide more.
Sizing for Different Bracelet Types
Chain and Link Bracelets
These flexible bracelets conform to your wrist shape. Add 1-1.5cm to your wrist measurement for a comfortable fit. Most chain bracelets come with adjustable lengths or extension chains, making sizing more forgiving.
Bangles
Solid bangles that slip over your hand require a completely different approach. Instead of measuring your wrist, you need to measure the widest part of your hand when your fingers are squeezed together. Wrap the tape around your knuckles with your thumb tucked into your palm, then divide that measurement by 3.14 to get your bangle diameter.
Cuff Bracelets
Cuffs are open at one end and slip onto your wrist without going over your hand. They're often adjustable by gently bending the metal. Your standard wrist measurement plus 1-2cm works well for most cuffs.
Beaded Stretch Bracelets
Elastic beaded bracelets should match your exact wrist measurement or be slightly smaller. The stretch allows them to fit snugly without needing extra length. If you're between sizes, go smaller rather than larger.
Leather Wrap Bracelets
Wrap bracelets typically come with multiple closure options, making them versatile. However, account for the thickness of the leather—add an extra 0.5cm compared to a thin chain bracelet.
Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
- Measuring too high on your arm: Always measure just below the wrist bone, not on your forearm.
- Pulling the tape too tight: This will give you a smaller measurement than your actual size.
- Measuring at the wrong time: Wrists can swell slightly in hot weather or after exercise. Measure at different times to get an average.
- Forgetting clasp space: Some clasp styles add length. A toggle clasp adds about 1.5cm, while a lobster clasp adds about 1cm.
- Not accounting for watch wear: If you wear a watch on the same wrist, your bracelet might need to be slightly larger to layer comfortably.
When to Size Up or Down
Consider sizing up if you live in a hot climate where wrists may swell, if you plan to add charms to a charm bracelet, or if you prefer a relaxed, bohemian look with your jewellery.
Consider sizing down if you prefer minimal jewellery movement, if you're buying a bracelet with heavy components that might cause it to slide, or if you have a very active lifestyle where a loose bracelet might catch on things.
Always check the seller's specific sizing guide. Different brands may define "small" and "medium" differently. When in doubt, contact the seller or check customer reviews for sizing feedback.
Final Thoughts
Taking the time to measure your wrist properly might seem like a small step, but it makes an enormous difference in how much you'll enjoy wearing your new bracelet. A well-fitted bracelet feels like it was made for you—it moves naturally with your wrist, doesn't pinch or slip, and looks polished rather than awkward.
Keep your wrist measurement written down somewhere accessible. You'll reference it again and again when shopping online or asking for gift recommendations. And remember, when you're between sizes, consider how you wear your jewellery day-to-day. Your personal style and comfort preferences matter just as much as the numbers.