Complete Size Guide: How to Measure Yourself for Perfect Fit

Essential Body Measurements

1. Bust/Chest Measurement

The bust measurement is crucial for tops, dresses, and bras. To measure correctly:

• Wear a well-fitting, non-padded bra
• Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust
• Keep the tape parallel to the floor
• The tape should be snug but not tight
• Take the measurement while breathing normally

2. Waist Measurement

Your natural waist is the narrowest part of your torso, typically about an inch above your belly button:

• Stand straight with feet together
• Locate your natural waist by bending to one side
• Wrap the tape around your natural waistline
• Keep one finger between the tape and your body
• Don't suck in your stomach

3. Hip Measurement

Hip measurement is essential for pants, skirts, and dresses:

• Stand with feet together
• Measure around the fullest part of your hips
• This is usually about 7-9 inches below your natural waist
• Keep the tape parallel to the floor
• Don't pull the tape too tight

4. Inseam Measurement

Critical for pants and jeans:

• Wear well-fitting pants
• Measure from the crotch seam to the bottom of the leg
• For accuracy, have someone help you measure
• Measure along the inside of your leg

Brand-Specific Sizing Tips

Luxury European Brands (Chanel, Dior, Gucci)

European luxury brands typically run 1-2 sizes smaller than American brands. If you're usually a size 8 in American brands, you'll likely need a size 40-42 in European luxury brands. These brands also tend to have a more fitted cut, so consider sizing up if you prefer a looser fit.

Fast Fashion Brands (Zara, H&M, Forever 21)

Fast fashion sizing can be inconsistent, even within the same brand. Zara, being a Spanish brand, uses European sizing and tends to run small. H&M sizing varies significantly between different clothing lines. Always check the specific size chart for each item.

American Mass Market (Target, Old Navy, Gap)

These brands generally follow standard US sizing, but Old Navy tends to run large while Gap runs true to size. Target's A New Day line is fairly consistent with standard US sizing.

Contemporary Brands (Madewell, Everlane, Theory)

Contemporary brands often have more consistent sizing and better quality control. They typically run true to size but may have a more tailored fit than mass market brands.

Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid

1. Assuming All Brands Size the Same

This is the biggest mistake shoppers make. A size 8 in one brand can be completely different from a size 8 in another brand. Always check measurements rather than relying solely on size labels.

2. Not Accounting for Fabric and Cut

Stretchy fabrics like jersey or spandex blends will fit differently than non-stretch fabrics like cotton or wool. A fitted cut will require different sizing than a relaxed or oversized cut.

3. Ignoring Return Policies

When shopping online, especially from new brands, always check the return policy. Many brands offer free returns, which allows you to order multiple sizes and return what doesn't fit.

4. Not Reading Reviews

Customer reviews often contain valuable sizing information. Look for reviews from people with similar measurements to yours, and pay attention to comments about fit and sizing.

International Size Conversions

US to European Sizing

European sizes are typically 30 numbers higher than US sizes. For example, a US size 8 is approximately a European size 38. However, this can vary by brand and country within Europe.

US to UK Sizing

UK sizes are typically 4 numbers higher than US sizes for women's clothing. A US size 8 would be a UK size 12. For men's clothing, UK and US sizes are often the same.

Asian Sizing

Asian brands (including many sold online) typically run 1-2 sizes smaller than US brands. Always check the specific measurements provided by the brand rather than relying on size labels.