International Clothing Size Guide
Shopping for clothes online from international brands can be tricky. A size "Medium" in China is often a size "Small" in the US. Our converter helps you decode international sizing labels so you can find the perfect fit, whether you are buying a dress from Italy or a suit from the UK.
Understanding Regional Sizing Systems
There are three main sizing systems used globally:
- US / Canada (Letter & Number): Uses letter sizing (S, M, L) for casual wear and numeric sizing (0, 2, 4...) for formal wear. Known for running larger than other regions.
- UK / Australia (Number): Similar to US numeric sizing but usually offset by 2-4 numbers. A US Size 4 is roughly a UK Size 8.
- Europe (EU): Based on body measurements in centimeters. Common sizes range from 32 to 58. An EU 38 is roughly a US Medium.
What is "Vanity Sizing"?
"Vanity sizing" is a phenomenon where clothing manufacturers label clothes with smaller sizes than they actually are to make customers feel better. For example, a size 2 dress today might be the same physical size as a size 6 dress from the 1980s. This is why checking size charts for each specific brand is always recommended.
How to Measure Yourself Correctly
To get the best fit, you should know your measurements in both inches and centimeters:
- Chest / Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape horizontal.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline, which is the narrowest part of your torso.
- Hips: Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a UK size 10 the same as a US size 10?
No! A UK Size 10 is generally smaller than a US Size 10. A UK 10 is roughly equivalent to a US Size 6. Always check the conversion chart.
Are Asian sizes smaller?
Yes, clothing from Asian brands (Japan, China, Korea) typically runs 1 to 2 sizes smaller than US/EU sizing. If you wear a US Medium, you might need an Asian XL or XXL.
Disclaimer: This tool provides general size conversions. Fit varies significantly by brand, style, and material.