Struggling with Zara sizing? You're not alone. Zara's European sizing system confuses millions of shoppers every year, leading to countless returns and sizing frustrations. Whether you're wondering if Zara runs small, how their size Medium compares to American Eagle, or what size to order when shopping online, this complete guide has you covered.

Why Zara Sizing is So Confusing

Zara uses European sizing, which operates on a completely different system than US sizing. But here's what makes it even more complicated: Zara's fit varies significantly between their different clothing lines, and their sizing has evolved over the years.

The biggest confusion comes from the fact that Zara's "Medium" doesn't correspond to a US Medium. In fact, many shoppers find they need to size up when shopping Zara compared to American brands like Target, American Eagle, or Old Navy.

Zara Size Chart: European vs US Sizing

Women's Clothing

Zara Size US Size UK Size Bust (inches) Waist (inches) Hips (inches)
XS 0-2 4-6 31-32 23-24 33-34
S 4-6 8-10 33-34 25-26 35-36
M 8-10 12-14 35-36 27-28 37-38
L 12-14 16-18 37-38 29-30 39-40
XL 16-18 20-22 39-40 31-32 41-42

How Zara Fits Compared to Popular US Brands

Zara vs American Eagle

If you wear a Medium at American Eagle, you'll likely need a Large at Zara. American Eagle tends to run larger and uses vanity sizing, while Zara sticks to European standards which run smaller.

Zara vs Target (A New Day, Wild Fable)

Target's house brands run notoriously large. If you're a Medium at Target, try a Small or Medium at Zara depending on the specific item.

Zara vs H&M

Both use European sizing, but H&M tends to run slightly larger than Zara. If you wear a Medium at H&M, stick with Medium at Zara but be prepared to size up for fitted items.

Zara Sizing by Category

Zara Dresses

Zara dresses tend to run the most true to their size chart, but fitted styles like bodycon dresses run smaller. For flowy or oversized dress styles, you can often size down.

Zara Jeans and Pants

This is where Zara sizing gets tricky. Their jeans use European sizing (36, 38, 40, etc.) and tend to run small in the waist but long in the legs. Many customers size up in Zara jeans.

Zara Tops and Blouses

Zara tops vary significantly by style. Fitted tops and blazers run small, while oversized and "relaxed fit" styles run large. Always check the specific measurements.

Common Zara Sizing Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Assuming US sizing: Don't order your usual US size without checking the measurements
  2. Ignoring the fit description: "Relaxed fit" vs "Regular fit" makes a huge difference
  3. Not reading reviews: Zara's website reviews often mention if items run small or large
  4. Forgetting about shrinkage: Some Zara items shrink after washing
  5. Ordering the same size across all categories: Your dress size might differ from your jeans size

Real Shopping Scenarios

Scenario 1: "I'm usually a Medium at Target"

Zara recommendation: Start with Small, but have Medium as backup. Target runs large, so you'll likely size down at Zara.

Scenario 2: "I wear size 8 jeans at American Eagle"

Zara recommendation: Try size 40 (equivalent to US 10). Zara jeans run small in the waist.

Scenario 3: "I'm between sizes - should I size up or down?"

Zara recommendation: Size up for fitted styles, size down for oversized styles. When in doubt, size up - Zara generally runs small.

Insider Tips for Zara Shopping Success

  • Check the measurements: Zara provides detailed measurements for most items
  • Read the fabric content: Stretchy fabrics are more forgiving than non-stretch
  • Look at the model's stats: Zara often lists what size the model is wearing
  • Use the size guide on each product: It's more accurate than the general size chart
  • Consider the season: Zara's summer collections tend to run smaller than winter items

Still Confused About Your Size?

Use our free size converter to find your perfect Zara size based on your measurements and favorite brands. Get personalized recommendations in seconds!

Try Our Size Converter

Final Thoughts

Zara sizing doesn't have to be a mystery. By understanding that they use European sizing, tend to run small compared to US brands, and vary by clothing category, you can shop with confidence. Remember: when in doubt, size up, check the measurements, and don't be afraid to order two sizes if you're unsure.

The key to Zara sizing success is treating it as a completely different system from US brands. Once you find your Zara size in one category, you'll have a better reference point for future purchases.