What Is Your Size?

Finding the answer to this question can be difficult at best.

How often have you been asked this question when shopping for clothes?

It isn’t always easy to answer. Maybe you wear one size in one brand and a different size in another brand. The lack of standardization in the fashion industry means that you should always try before you buy.

But what about online shopping? Here, you have to pay attention to actual measurements, not just sizes. In addition, you’ll want to consider the following:

1. Missy sizes may be cut to a 20, and women's sizes generally start at 14W.
    

2. Women’s sizes often have a more generous cut than missy sizes. If you see a “W,” it will be larger. If you see a “WP,” for petite, it will be shorter or smaller than a “W.”
    

3. UK sizes may look the same as U.S. sizes, but they often run a size smaller. For example, a UK 10 is about a U.S. 8.
    

4. To find your Euro size, add 30 to your U.S. size. A U.S. 6 is a Euro 36. Refer to size charts to check for fit. If you shop Euro often, you’ll want to be able to convert inches to centimeters. You can use a calculator, chart, or other tool to do this.
    

5. One manufacturer's size 8 is another’s size 12. For example, at J. Jill and Land's End, an XL is a size 18-20. At Banana Republic, it is a 14-16.
    

6. Finding vintage clothing in your size can be challenging. Because U.S. sizing has changed over the years, you will need to have accurate measurements. Vintage Vixen can give you good sizing tips.
    

7. Always verify a company’s return policy, especially for online purchases. E-mail the company if you need further information.
   
    

Accurate measurements will allow you to decipher any sizing system.

To take the most accurate measurements possible, it is best to use a cloth tape measure and a full-length mirror.

You, or the person being measured, should be undressed or wearing lightweight, minimal clothing. For the greatest accuracy, have a friend take your measurements. Stand up tall, keep your arms relaxed at your sides, and don’t slouch.

The tape measure should be pulled snug, but not tight.

Waist: Find your most comfortable, natural waistline. Again, pull the tape measure snug, but not tight.

Hip: Measure around the fullest part of the hips. This is generally about 7 to 9 inches below the waistline.

Bust: Measure over the fullest part of the bust, under the armpits, and around the back, over the shoulder blades.

Bra: While wearing a comfortable bra, measure around the rib cage just below the breast. If the result is 33 inches or less, add 5 inches; if over 33 inches, add 3 inches. This will be your bra size. Next, to get your cup size, measure the fullest part of the bust as noted above and subtract the number you get from your bra size. Use the number you get to find your cup size by using the chart below. As an example: If your bra size is 36 and your cup measurement is 38, the difference is 2″. You would wear a 36B.

Use this chart:

Hats: Measure around the head about 1/2" above the ears.
Gloves: Partially closing your hand, measure over the knuckles and around the hand. Exclude the thumb.

Additional Sizing Tips

Cotton shrinks. Add 1/3" to 3/4" extra to compensate. However, be aware that some brands figure potential shrinkage into the size. When in doubt, ask a sales associate.

Many manufacturers and specialty stores have their own special fitting and size tips. Ask for additional information, especially if you are shopping online and can’t try the garment on.

Find a good tailor. No matter how accurate your measurements, your body is unique. Even if you get the size right, you might still need an adjustment here and there for a custom fit.
 

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