Shopping for clothes online should be fun, not frustrating, and yet, nothing kills the joy of a shopping spree like picking the wrong size. Whether you’re buying a chic blazer for work or a cosy pair of leggings for the weekend, getting the perfect fit makes all the difference. That’s where size charts come in!
This ultimate guide will help you master the art of understanding size charts, taking accurate measurements, and finding clothes that fit like they were tailor-made for you. Trust us – by the end of this article, picking the right size will feel as effortless as your go-to little black dress.
Understanding Your Body Measurements
Before you even glance at a size chart, you’ll need to arm yourself with one thing: accurate body measurements. Here’s how to measure yourself like a pro (and yes, you can absolutely do this yourself, but having a friend help makes it easier!):
- Bust: Stand straight and wrap a tape measure around the fullest part of your bust. Make sure it’s level across your back and not too tight!
- Waist: Locate the narrowest part of your waist (pro tip: bend to one side to find where your natural crease is) and wrap the tape snugly around that area.
- Hips: With your feet together, measure around the fullest part of your hips for the most accurate results.
Shoulder: Stand straight and measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other. This measurement is crucial for blouses, dresses, and jackets to ensure a perfect fit across the shoulders.
| Size Label | Region | Bust (in / cm) | Waist (in / cm) | Hip (in / cm) | Inseam (in / cm) | Rise (in / cm) | Thigh (in / cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | US | 31 / 79 | 24–25 / 61–63.5 | 33–34 / 84–86 | 28–30 / 71–76 | 8 / 20.5 | 20 / 51 |
| 4 | UK | 31 / 79 | 24–25 / 61–63.5 | 33–34 / 84–86 | 28–30 / 71–76 | 8 / 20.5 | 20 / 51 |
| 2 | US | 32 / 81 | 25–26 / 63.5–66 | 35–36 / 89–91 | 28–30 / 71–76 | 8.5 / 21.5 | 21 / 53.5 |
| 6 | UK | 32 / 81 | 25–26 / 63.5–66 | 35–36 / 89–91 | 28–30 / 71–76 | 8.5 / 21.5 | 21 / 53.5 |
| 4 | US | 33 / 84 | 26–27 / 66–68.5 | 36–37 / 91–94 | 28–31 / 71–79 | 9 / 23 | 22 / 56 |
| 8 | UK | 33 / 84 | 26–27 / 66–68.5 | 36–37 / 91–94 | 28–31 / 71–79 | 9 / 23 | 22 / 56 |
| 6 | US | 34 / 86 | 27–28 / 68.5–71 | 37–38 / 94–96 | 29–32 / 74–81 | 9.5 / 24 | 23 / 58.5 |
| 10 | UK | 34 / 86 | 27–28 / 68.5–71 | 37–38 / 94–96 | 29–32 / 74–81 | 9.5 / 24 | 23 / 58.5 |
| 8 | US | 35 / 89 | 28–29 / 71–74 | 38–39 / 96–99 | 29–32 / 74–81 | 10 / 25.5 | 24 / 61 |
| 12 | UK | 35 / 89 | 28–29 / 71–74 | 38–39 / 96–99 | 29–32 / 74–81 | 10 / 25.5 | 24 / 61 |
| 10 | US | 36 / 91 | 30–31 / 76–79 | 40–41 / 102–104 | 30–33 / 76–84 | 10.5 / 27 | 25 / 63.5 |
| 14 | UK | 36 / 91 | 30–31 / 76–79 | 40–41 / 102–104 | 30–33 / 76–84 | 10.5 / 27 | 25 / 63.5 |
| 12 | US | 38 / 97 | 32–33 / 81–84 | 42–43 / 107–109 | 30–33 / 76–84 | 11 / 28 | 26 / 66 |
| 16 | UK | 38 / 97 | 32–33 / 81–84 | 42–43 / 107–109 | 30–33 / 76–84 | 11 / 28 | 26 / 66 |
| 14 | US | 40 / 102 | 34–35 / 86–89 | 44–45 / 112–114 | 30–33 / 76–84 | 11.5 / 29 | 27 / 68.5 |
| 18 | UK | 40 / 102 | 34–35 / 86–89 | 44–45 / 112–114 | 30–33 / 76–84 | 11.5 / 29 | 27 / 68.5 |
| 16 | US | 42 / 107 | 36–37 / 91–94 | 46–47 / 117–119 | 31–34 / 79–86 | 12 / 30.5 | 28 / 71 |
| 20 | UK | 42 / 107 | 36–37 / 91–94 | 46–47 / 117–119 | 31–34 / 79–86 | 12 / 30.5 | 28 / 71 |
Why These Measurements Matter
Fashion sizes vary dramatically between countries, brands, and even individual pieces within the same store. Armed with your bust, waist, and hips measurements, you’ll avoid the dread of garments that are too tight, too loose, or downright unflattering. Remember, these measurements are your secret weapon to online shopping success.
How to Use a Size Chart for Women
Size guides are saviours when shopping for both tops and bottoms. They’re usually arranged by standard categories like XS, S, M, L, XL, and XXL, alongside their corresponding measurements in inches or centimetres.
How to Interpret the Women’s Size Chart
- For tops and dresses, focus on bust and waist measurements. Oversized sleeves or shorter lengths can be forgiving, but a poor fit on the bust or waist can make or break the look.
- For trousers or skirts, hip and waist measurements are crucial. Don’t forget to check the length if you’re tall or petite!
- Height considerations are key for overall fit. For example, if you’re on the borderline for height, the next size up might ensure comfy proportions.
When in doubt, err on the side of comfort – but make sure to note each brand’s specific recommendations.
Common Sizing Issues and Their Solutions
Ladies, we’ve all been there stuck between two sizes or puzzled over why the same size feels utterly different between brands.
Here’s how to tackle some common problems head-on:
- When you’re between sizes: Sizing up is often the better bet, especially for fitted garments. You can always tailor items if needed (and hems can be your best friend!).
- Unsure about hosiery sizing? Great news – many brands offer “one size fits all” hosiery that works perfectly for UK sizes 8-14 and petite heights of up to 5ft 4”.
- Struggling with international sizing charts? Convert your UK size to the equivalent US, EU, or AU size for a smoother shopping experience.
Proactive tip? Check reviews! Other shoppers often share valuable insights on whether items fit true to size or run small/large.
Measuring for Different Garment Types For Women
Different garments call for different measurements. Knowing exactly what to measure will ensure everything from blouses to leggings fits just right.
- For bust measurements, ensure the tape measure lies completely straight across your back and covers the fullest part of your chest.
- For waist measurements, wrap tape snugly around your natural waistline – not where your jeans usually sit!
- For hips, measure while keeping your tape horizontal and lined across your hips’ fullest section.
Want clothes that hug your curves in all the right ways? These three areas are the holy trinity of fit perfection.
Women’s Size Chart: The Key to Your Perfect Fit
When using a size chart, pay close attention to specific garment types. For example, the size requirements for a flowy midi skirt won’t be the same as for a structured sports bra.
What You’ll Find
Our size charts include XS through XXL, with specific inches size measurements for each size. Here’s a sneak peek of what you can match up with your measurements (in inches):
- XS – Bust (32”), Waist (25”), Hips (35”)
- S – Bust (34”), Waist (27”), Hips (37”)
- M – Bust (36”), Waist (29”), Hips (39”)
- L – Bust (38”), Waist (31”), Hips (41”)
- XL – Bust (40”), Waist (33”), Hips (43”)
- XXL – Bust (42”), Waist (36”), Hips (46”)
If you’re shopping for speciality garments like leggings or sportswear, check the additional information provided by the store for length, stretch, and fabric details.
Conclusion
Nailing your perfect size doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Armed with accurate measurements, knowledge of how to use a size guide, and a few handy tips, you’ll turn the frustration of online shopping into pure, unbridled joy.
Feel like you need a little extra help? Don’t hesitate to reach out to your favourite brands for sizing advice or book an appointment with a local tailor. Whatever your style, remember this – clothing sizes are just numbers on a label. The ultimate goal is finding pieces that bring out your unique confidence and style.
Now, grab your tape measure, your size guide, and get ready to shop stress-free. Your wardrobe is about to thank you!
