Ever bought a bangle that felt either too tight or slipped off the moment you moved? It’s a common bother, but fixing it is easier than you think. The secret lies in measuring your wrist correctly and knowing the small differences between metal types.
Grab a soft measuring tape – the kind you use for sewing. If you don’t have one, a strip of paper works fine. Wrap it around the spot where you usually wear the bangle, typically a little above the wrist bone. Keep the tape snug but not squeezing; you want a comfortable fit.
Mark where the paper meets and lay it flat. Measure the length with a ruler. Add about 0.5 cm (2 mm) for a loose fit if you like some wiggle room, or subtract 0.2 cm (1 mm) for a snug, traditional fit. That final number is your inner circumference, which translates to the bangle size you’ll need.
Most Indian jewellery shops label bangles by inner diameter (in mm). To convert, use the formula: Diameter = Circumference ÷ π (≈3.14). So a 17 cm (170 mm) circumference becomes roughly 54 mm in diameter. Keep a quick cheat sheet handy – many online stores list sizes next to each product.
Gold, silver, and glass bangles behave differently. Gold and silver are slightly flexible; a jeweller can stretch them a few millimetres without damaging the piece. Glass and acrylic bangles, however, are rigid – you need the exact size or risk cracking.
If you’re buying from a physical shop, ask the artisan to try the bangle on your wrist. Most stores have an “adjust” bar where they can gently expand or shrink the piece on the spot. For online purchases, look for sellers who offer a free resizing service within a set period.
Another handy tip: if you’re between sizes, choose the larger one and wear a thin inner sleeve or soft fabric strip underneath. It adds a bit of padding and prevents the bangle from sliding off while still looking sleek.
Remember to consider the occasion. Traditional ceremonies often call for tighter bangles that stay in place during dance, while everyday wear is more comfortable with a looser fit.
Lastly, don’t forget wrist changes throughout the day. Your wrist can swell a bit in the evening or after a workout. Measure when your wrist is at its average size – usually mid‑day after light activity.
With these simple steps, you’ll avoid the disappointment of ill‑fitting bangles and enjoy the sparkle on your wrist every time you wear them. Happy shopping!
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