Bracelet and bangle size guide
A bracelet you love should also feel comfortable to wear. Before choosing your design, a few simple measurements will help you find the right fit.
For a closed bangle, remember to measure around your hand: your wrist measurement alone is not enough. Even if a bangle looks suitable for your wrist, it must first slide over your hand.
1. How to measure your wrist
Use a soft measuring tape. Alternatively, use a strip of paper or non-stretch string, then measure it with a ruler.
- Wrap it around your wrist where you would like to wear your bracelet.
- Keep the tape against your skin, without tightening it or leaving a gap.
- Note the measurement in centimetres. With string or paper, mark where the ends meet, then lay it flat and measure the length.
This is your wrist circumference, not necessarily the bracelet length to order.
For a flexible bracelet with a clasp, generally allow around 1–2 cm of extra room, depending on your preferred fit and the thickness of the design. Compare this with the length and extension stated on its product page.
2. For a closed bangle, measure your hand too
A closed bangle has no opening or clasp: it slips over your hand. Whether it can pass over your hand is therefore the first thing to check.
- Bring your fingers together and fold your thumb towards your palm, as you would to slip on a bangle.
- Wrap the tape or a non-stretch paper strip around the widest part of your hand, including your thumb knuckle.
- Measure without squeezing your hand. With paper, mark the overlap, unfold the strip and measure its length with a ruler.
This gives your hand circumference in the position used to put on a bangle. It is an initial guide, not a guarantee of fit: hand shape, rigidity and bangle width also matter.
A bangle should pass over your hand without pain or force. If your measurement is close to the dimensions of the design, ask us for advice before ordering.
3. Already own a bangle that fits?
This is an excellent reference, especially if its shape and width are similar to the design you are considering.
Lay it flat and measure the inside space, from one inner edge to the other, without including the metal itself.
- For a round bangle, measure the inner diameter through the centre.
- For an oval bangle, take both inside measurements: width and height.
Compare these with the measurements on the product page. Do not compare hand circumference directly with a diameter: they are different measurements. If you are unsure, send us your hand circumference for advice.
The outer diameter does not describe the space available for your hand. Likewise, a 6 or 8 mm band width describes the width of the jewellery, not its inner size.
4. Closed, hinged or open: different bracelets need different checks
| Bracelet type | What to check |
|---|---|
| Closed bangle or closed seven-bangle set | Hand clearance, inside measurements and comfort on the wrist. |
| Bangle with a hinge or clasp | Inside measurements when fastened and comfort on the wrist. |
| Open bangle or cuff | Inside measurements, opening and any adjustment described on the product page. |
| Flexible bracelet with a clasp | Wrist circumference, desired room and available length, including the extension. |
An open bracelet is not necessarily adjustable. Where slight adjustment is possible, handle it gently and avoid repeated bending. A rigid closed bangle cannot be enlarged.
5. Before ordering: your checklist
- Check the clasp or opening.
- Note the design’s inside measurements.
- Measure your hand circumference for a closed bangle.
- Consider the bracelet’s width and your preferred fit.
A photograph of jewellery being worn helps you judge style and proportions, but does not replace measurements: every hand and wrist is different.
Unsure about your size?
We are here to help you choose with confidence. Contact us before ordering with the design’s name, your wrist circumference and, for a closed bangle, your hand circumference.
If you already own a comfortable bangle, you can also send us its inside measurements.