How to find the right size — every time

Introduction

Shopping for clothes online is convenient, but one thing often stands in the way of the perfect experience: sizing. A medium from one brand can be equivalent to a small from another, and differences between European, British, and American systems make the choice even more difficult. This guide compiles what you need to know so you can choose correctly the first time — thereby saving time, money, and frustration.

The guide is divided into three parts: first, a brief introduction to why sizes vary, then a step-by-step guide on how to measure yourself correctly, and finally clear size charts for men's tops, women's tops, and trousers, with measurements in both centimeters and inches.

1. Why do sizes vary so much?

There is no global standard for clothing sizes. Each brand designs based on its own fit template, and even within the same brand, different collections can have different cuts. The most important factors are:

• Country and standard. EU, UK, and US use different numbering systems — an EU 38 typically corresponds to a UK 10 and US 6 in women's wear.

• Fit philosophy. Some brands design slim fit, others regular or relaxed — this affects which size will suit you.

• Material and stretch. Fabrics with elastane offer more freedom of movement and can often be chosen to fit closer to the body.

• Brand-specific vanity sizing. Certain brands deliberately indicate smaller numbers to appeal to customers.

2. How to measure yourself correctly

To choose the right size, measure yourself in the following way. Use a soft tape measure and measure directly on your skin or over thin underwear. Stand relaxed with your feet together, and hold the tape measure horizontally all the way around — neither tight nor loose.

1. Neck — Measure around your neck. Ensure the tape is flat all the way around.

2. Chest — Measure around the fullest part of your chest. Place the tape measure close under your arms and ensure it is flat across your back.

3. Waist — Measure your waist. Place the tape measure around your waist and ensure it is flat all the way around.

4. Sleeve length — Measure the length of the sleeve from your shoulder to where your sleeve should end.

5. Shirt length — Measure the length of the shirt, from the bottom of the collar to the bottom of the shirt.

6. Hip — Measure around the widest part of your hip, approximately 20 cm (8 inches) below your waist.

7. Inseam — Measure from the crotch vertically down to the ankle.

Practical tips

• It's a good idea to have someone else help you — this provides more precise measurements, especially for your back.

• Measure twice. If the numbers don't match, measure a third time.

• Note down your measurements so you have them ready next time you shop online.

• Consider whether you prefer a snug or loose fit, and round up if your measurements fall between two sizes.

3. How to read a size chart

Size charts show the body measurements a garment is designed to fit. They do not show the garment's actual measurements — these will typically be larger to allow for ease of movement. Find the row where most of your measurements fit. If your measurements span several sizes, prioritize:

• Tops and dresses: chest is most important, then waist.

• Trousers: waist is most important, then hip and length.

• Jackets and blazers: chest and shoulder width.

Note: 1 inch = 2.54 cm. The tables below indicate both units, so you can easily compare with international brands.

4. How to avoid returns

• Always read the product description for notes on fit ("slim fit", "runs small", "oversized").

• Check reviews from other customers with similar body types.

• Compare with a piece of clothing you already own and are happy with — measure it and compare the numbers to the chart.

• When in doubt: choose the larger size. 

• Check the return policy before purchasing so you know your options.

Size charts

The tables below indicate body measurements — not garment measurements. All measurements are given in centimeters and inches (1 in = 2.54 cm), separated by a slash.

Men's Tops (shirts, t-shirts, sweatshirts)

Based on neck, chest, waist, sleeve length, and shirt length. For collared shirts: use the neck measurement and add 1 cm (0.4 inches) for ease of movement.

Women's Tops and Dresses

Based on bust, waist, and hip circumference, as well as sleeve and back length. If your measurements fall between two sizes, choose the larger one — especially if the fabric has no stretch.