Women's Clothing Size Chart: The Complete Guide to Finding Your Perfect Fit

How Women's Sizing Systems Work

Before we jump into the charts, it helps to understand why women's sizing is such a mess in the first place. Unlike men's clothing, which is usually based on actual measurements (a 32-inch waist means a 32-inch waist), women's sizes use arbitrary numbers that vary wildly between brands and countries.

A Brief History of Why Sizing Makes No Sense

Back in the 1940s, the US government actually tried to standardize women's sizes. They measured 15,000 women and created a sizing system. The problem? The sample group was not diverse, and the measurements were based on the idea that all women had hourglass figures. Spoiler alert: only about 8% of women naturally have that body shape.

By 1983, the US officially abandoned standard sizing, and brands started doing whatever they wanted. Enter vanity sizing, where a dress that would have been labeled size 12 in 1958 might be called a size 6 today. A size 8 has expanded by up to 6 inches in the waist since 1958. So if you have ever tried on your grandmother's vintage clothes and wondered why they felt so small, now you know.

The Three Main Sizing Systems

Most of the world uses one of three systems:

• US Numeric Sizing (0, 2, 4, 6, 8...) - Used in the United States and Canada. Numbers have no direct relationship to measurements.
• UK Numeric Sizing (4, 6, 8, 10, 12...) - Used in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Generally runs 4 numbers higher than US sizes.
• EU Numeric Sizing (32, 34, 36, 38...) - Used throughout Europe. Add roughly 30 to a US size to get the EU equivalent.

Then there is letter sizing (XS, S, M, L, XL), which varies even more between brands. One store's medium might be another store's small. Letter sizes exist mainly for convenience but sacrifice precision.

How to Measure Yourself Properly

Getting accurate measurements is the single most useful thing you can do for your wardrobe. Once you know your numbers, you can shop anywhere in the world with confidence. Here is how to do it right.

What You Need

• A soft, flexible measuring tape (the kind used for sewing)
• A mirror or a friend to help
• Thin, close-fitting clothes or just undergarments
• A pen and paper to record your numbers

If you do not have a measuring tape, use a piece of string or ribbon, mark it, and then measure it against a ruler or hard measuring tape.

The Key Measurements

Bust

Wrap the tape around your back and bring it to the front, measuring across the fullest part of your bust. Keep the tape parallel to the floor. Do not pull it tight or let it sag. Wear an unpadded bra for accuracy. This measurement is different from your bra size.

Waist

Find your natural waistline by bending to one side. The crease that forms is your natural waist. It is usually the narrowest part of your torso, typically about an inch above your belly button. Wrap the tape around this point, keeping it snug but not squeezing. Do not suck in your stomach.

Hips

Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. This is usually about 7 to 9 inches below your natural waist, not at your hip bones. Stand with your feet together and keep the tape level all the way around.

Inseam (for pants)

Measure from the crotch seam of a well-fitting pair of pants down to the hem. Or stand barefoot and measure from your crotch to the floor, then subtract about half an inch.

Pro Tips for Accurate Measurements

• Measure in the afternoon or evening, not first thing in the morning when your body is slightly different
• Stand naturally, do not pose or hold your breath
• Take each measurement twice to confirm accuracy
• Write down your numbers immediately
• Re-measure every few months, as bodies change

US Women's Size Chart

Here is the standard US women's size chart. Remember, these are guidelines. Individual brands may vary by an inch or more in either direction.

Standard US Women's Sizes

US Size	Letter Size	Bust (inches)	Waist (inches)	Hips (inches)
00	XXS	30-31	22-23	32-33
0	XXS	31-32	23-24	33-34
2	XS	32-33	24-25	34-35
4	S	33-34	25-26	35-36
6	S	34-35	26-27	36-37
8	M	35-36	27-28	37-38
10	M	36-37	28-29	38-39
12	L	37.5-39	29.5-31	39.5-41
14	L	39-40.5	31-32.5	41-42.5
16	XL	40.5-42	32.5-34	42.5-44
18	XL	42-43.5	34-35.5	44-45.5
20	XXL	43.5-45	35.5-37	45.5-47

US Women's Jeans Size Chart

Jeans use a different numbering system based on waist measurements. Here is how waist numbers translate to standard US sizes:

Waist Size	US Size	Waist (inches)	Hip (inches)
23	000	23	34
24	00	24	35
25	0	25	36
26	2	26	37
27	4	27	38
28	6	28	39
29	8	29	40
30	10	30	41
31	10	31	42
32	12	32	43
33	14	33	44
34	16	34	45

When you see a size like "27/32" on jeans, the first number is the waist size and the second is the inseam length in inches.

International Size Conversions

Shopping from international retailers? Here is how sizes translate across the major regions. A quick formula to remember: US to UK, add 4. US to EU, add 30.

Women's Clothing Size Conversion Chart

US Size	UK Size	EU Size	AU Size	Letter
0	4	32	4	XXS
2	6	34	6	XS
4	8	36	8	S
6	10	38	10	S/M
8	12	40	12	M
10	14	42	14	M/L
12	16	44	16	L
14	18	46	18	L/XL
16	20	48	20	XL
18	22	50	22	XXL
20	24	52	24	XXXL

Asian Size Conversions

Asian sizing follows different systems and generally runs smaller than Western sizes. Here is a breakdown by country:

Japanese Women's Sizes

Japan Size	US Size	Bust (cm)	Waist (cm)	Hips (cm)
5	0	77-80	58-61	85-88
7	2	80-83	61-64	88-91
9	4-6	83-86	64-67	91-94
11	6-8	86-89	67-70	94-97
13	10	89-92	70-73	97-100
15	12	92-96	73-77	100-104

Korean Women's Sizes

Korean sizes use a code system where 55, 66, 77, etc. roughly correspond to body measurements:

Korean Size	US Size	Letter Size
44	00-0	XXS
55	2-4	XS-S
66	6-8	S-M
77	10-12	M-L
88	14-16	L-XL

Chinese Women's Sizes

Chinese sizing often displays as height/chest in centimeters (like 165/84A). The letter indicates body type: A is standard, B is slightly fuller, and C is fuller still.

Chinese Size	US Size	Height Range (cm)
155/80A	XS	152-158
160/84A	S	157-163
165/88A	M	162-168
170/92A	L	167-173
175/96A	XL	172-178

The key takeaway: when shopping from Asian retailers, always look at the actual measurements in centimeters rather than trying to convert sizes directly. A Chinese or Korean XL often fits like a US Medium or Large.

How Brands Size Differently

Here is the frustrating truth: a size 8 is not a size 8 is not a size 8. Some brands run small, others run large, and a few just do their own thing entirely. Once you know these patterns, shopping gets a lot easier.

Brands That Run Small

Zara follows European sizing and tends to run 1 to 2 sizes smaller than US standard. Their tops and jackets are usually true to size, but bottoms (jeans, pants, skirts) often require sizing up. If you normally wear a US 8, try a Zara 10 or Large in pants.

H&M has a reputation for inconsistent and tight-fitting clothes. Tops and dresses especially tend to run small, and the fabric often shrinks in the wash. Size up for anything you want to last. However, their outerwear and jackets often run true or even slightly large.

ASOS runs slightly small compared to other UK retailers. Their size 6 has a bust around 78.5 cm and waist around 60 cm, which is tighter than many competitors. Consider sizing up, especially for fitted items.

Asian fast fashion brands (Shein, Romwe, etc.) typically run 1 to 2 sizes smaller than US sizing. Always check the size chart for each specific item, as consistency is not their strength.

Brands That Run Large (Vanity Sizing)

Old Navy is famous for generous sizing. Their clothes consistently measure larger than labeled, so you might wear a size smaller than usual here.

Gap and Banana Republic (same parent company as Old Navy) also practice vanity sizing, though slightly less extreme.

J.Crew runs larger than labeled. Many customers size down by one size.

Brands That Run True to Size

Nordstrom house brands tend to be consistent and accurate to standard US sizing.

Madewell is relatively true to size, especially for denim.

Uniqlo follows Japanese sizing but has adapted somewhat for Western markets. Their US sizes are fairly accurate, though sleeves and torso lengths may run shorter.

Zara vs H&M vs ASOS: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Brand	Small (Bust)	Medium (Bust)	Large (Bust)	Notes
Zara	84-88 cm	88-92 cm	92-96 cm	Runs small, size up for bottoms
H&M	84-88 cm	88-94 cm	94-100 cm	Inconsistent, check each item
ASOS	81-86 cm	86-91 cm	91-97 cm	UK sizing, runs slightly small

Petite, Tall, and Plus Sizes

Standard sizing assumes a "regular" height and body shape that does not fit everyone. Here is what you need to know about specialty sizing categories.

Petite Sizing (5'4" and Under)

Petite clothing is proportioned for shorter frames, typically 5'4" (162 cm) and under. The width measurements (bust, waist, hips) stay the same as regular sizes, but the lengths are adjusted:

• Shorter torso and higher waistlines
• Shorter sleeves (about 1 inch shorter)
• Shorter inseams (around 28 inches vs 32 inches regular)
• Higher knee placement on pants
• Less fabric volume overall for a more proportionate look

A size 8P has the same bust, waist, and hip measurements as a regular 8, just cut shorter. Look for pants with inseams starting around 25 to 28 inches.

Brands with good petite selections include LOFT, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Nordstrom, and ASOS Petite.

Tall Sizing (5'8" and Over)

Tall sizing adds length where petite subtracts it:

• Longer torso and lower waistlines
• Longer sleeves (about 1 to 2 inches longer)
• Longer inseams (34 to 36 inches or more)
• More rise in pants

Recommended Inseam by Height

Your Height	Recommended Inseam
5'8" - 5'10"	34-35 inches
5'11" - 6'0"	35-36 inches
6'1" - 6'2"	36-37 inches
6'3" and up	37-38 inches

If you plan to wear heels, add 1 to 2 inches to your typical inseam for dress pants and wide-leg styles.

Plus Size Sizing

Plus sizes begin at size 14 or 16, though some brands start at 12. Plus sizing uses a few different labeling systems:

• Numeric with W (14W, 16W, 18W) - The W means the garment is cut with more room through bust, hips, and arms. A 16W is roomier than a standard 16.
• X sizing (1X, 2X, 3X) - Alpha sizing for plus. 1X is slightly larger than a standard XL.
• Straight numeric (14, 16, 18) - Same number as standard sizes but proportioned differently at some retailers.

Plus Size Conversion Chart

US Size	Alpha Size	Bust (inches)	Waist (inches)	Hips (inches)
14W	0X	41-43	33-35	43-45
16W	1X	43-45	35-37	45-47
18W	1X	45-47	37-39	47-49
20W	2X	47-49	39-41	49-51
22W	2X	49-51	41-43	51-53
24W	3X	51-53	43-45	53-55
26W	3X	53-55	45-47	55-57
28W	4X	55-57	47-49	57-59

Good plus size retailers include Lane Bryant, Torrid, Eloquii, Universal Standard, and ASOS Curve. Many mainstream brands now extend their sizing too.

Sizing by Garment Type

Different types of clothing fit differently, and you might not be the same size across all categories. Here is what to prioritize when measuring for each.

Tops, Blouses, and Sweaters

Primary measurement: Bust

For fitted tops, your bust measurement is most important. For relaxed or oversized styles, you might size down from your usual. Button-down shirts should close smoothly without pulling or gaping at the bust.

Pants and Jeans

Primary measurements: Waist and hips

If your waist and hip measurements fall in different sizes, choose based on where you want the pants to sit. High-waisted styles? Go with waist measurement. Low or mid-rise? Hip measurement matters more. Stretch fabrics are more forgiving if you are between sizes.

For jeans specifically, they may stretch up to half a size with wear. Consider sizing down slightly if the fabric contains less than 2% elastane, as pure cotton or mostly cotton jeans will loosen.

Dresses

Primary measurements: Bust, waist, and hips

Dresses are trickier because all three measurements matter. If your measurements span two sizes, consider the dress style:

• Fitted/bodycon: Size for your largest measurement and have it tailored elsewhere if needed
• A-line/empire waist: Size for bust, since the skirt flows freely
• Wrap dress: Size for bust and waist; the wrap adjusts for hips
• Shift dress: Size for bust; these hang loose from shoulders

Skirts

Primary measurements: Waist and hips

Pencil skirts and fitted styles need accurate hip measurements. A-line and full skirts are more forgiving. For high-waisted styles, your natural waist measurement is critical.

Jackets and Blazers

Primary measurement: Bust (and shoulders)

Structured jackets should fit at the shoulders first. If a jacket fits your bust but pulls at the shoulders, it is the wrong size and cannot be easily fixed by a tailor. Better to size up and have the body taken in. You should be able to move your arms freely without the jacket riding up.

Swimwear

Primary measurements: Bust, waist, hips (and torso for one-pieces)

Swimwear has no forgiveness, so measure carefully. For one-piece suits, your torso length matters. Measure from your shoulder, down through your crotch, and back up to the same shoulder.

Swimwear should feel snug when dry. The fabric will relax slightly when wet. If a swimsuit feels comfortable dry, it will likely be too loose in the water.

Consider buying separates if your top and bottom are different sizes. Many brands sell bikini tops and bottoms separately.

Bras

Primary measurements: Band (underbust) and bust

Bra sizing deserves its own section because it is so commonly misunderstood. Studies suggest 70 to 85% of women wear the wrong bra size.

To find your size:

1. Measure your band: Wrap the tape firmly around your ribcage, directly under your bust. Round to the nearest whole number. If it is odd, round up to the next even number. This is your band size.
2. Measure your bust: Wrap the tape loosely around the fullest part of your bust. Keep it level.
3. Calculate your cup: Subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement. Each inch of difference equals one cup size: 1" = A, 2" = B, 3" = C, 4" = D, 5" = DD/E, 6" = DDD/F

Sister sizes share the same cup volume with different band sizes. For example, 34C, 36B, and 38A all have the same cup volume. If a 34C band feels too tight, try 36B instead of going up to 34D.

Find Your Size Tool

Enter your measurements below to get personalized size recommendations across different regions and common brands.

Formal and Evening Wear Sizing

Formal dresses, evening gowns, and bridesmaid dresses often follow different sizing conventions than everyday clothing. Formalwear tends to run smaller than casual wear, and the stakes are higher because these pieces usually cannot be returned once altered.

Why Formalwear Fits Differently

Evening gowns and formal dresses are typically designed with specific undergarments in mind, often built-in boning, cups, or shapewear. The structured nature of these garments means they have less flexibility than a casual cotton dress. Additionally, many formalwear brands use traditional sizing that has not been subject to the same vanity sizing inflation as everyday retail.

When shopping for formal occasions, add at least 1 to 2 inches to your measurements when comparing to size charts. If the brand's size 8 lists a 36" bust, your bust should measure no more than 34" to 35" for a comfortable fit with room to breathe.

Key Considerations for Formal Sizing

• Measure with the undergarments you will wear: Strapless bras, shapewear, and even specific heel heights affect how a formal dress fits. Measure while wearing what you plan to wear underneath.
• Allow time for alterations: Budget 2 to 4 weeks for alterations after purchasing. Rush alterations cost more and may not achieve perfect results.
• Size for your largest measurement: A seamstress can take in a dress, but letting out fabric is limited or impossible depending on the seam allowances. When in doubt, go bigger.
• Check the return policy before ordering: Some formal retailers have strict return windows or charge restocking fees.

Bridesmaid and Wedding Party Sizing

Bridesmaid dresses are notorious for running small. Most bridal manufacturers use standardized sizing that dates back decades and does not account for modern body diversity. If you normally wear a size 10, you might need a size 12 or 14 in bridesmaid sizing.

When ordering bridesmaid dresses as a group, everyone should measure using the same method and add the same ease. Better for everyone to order slightly larger and have alterations done uniformly than to have one person with a too-tight dress.

Sizing for Different Body Shapes

Standard sizing assumes an hourglass figure with a roughly 10-inch difference between waist and hips. But bodies come in all proportions. Knowing your shape helps you anticipate fit challenges before they happen.

Apple Shape

Fuller through the midsection with slimmer legs. Waist measurements are close to or larger than hip measurements.

Sizing strategy: For tops and dresses, size for your bust measurement. Empire waists and A-line cuts skim over the midsection without clinging. For pants, you might size up to accommodate the waist, then get the legs tapered by a tailor. Look for brands that offer "curvy" or "tummy control" fits.

Pear Shape

Narrower shoulders and bust with fuller hips and thighs. Hip measurements significantly larger than bust.

Sizing strategy: Size tops for your bust (often smaller than standard) and bottoms for your hips (often larger). A-line skirts and bootcut pants balance proportions. Wrap dresses that tie at the waist work well because they accommodate different top and bottom sizes. Consider buying separates rather than matching sets.

Rectangle Shape

Bust, waist, and hips are similar measurements with minimal waist definition.

Sizing strategy: Standard sizing often works well since most clothes assume this silhouette. Add visual waist definition with belts, peplum tops, or fit-and-flare dresses. Avoid boxy cuts that hide your frame entirely unless that is the look you want.

Hourglass Shape

Bust and hips are similar measurements with a defined waist (usually 9 to 11 inches smaller).

Sizing strategy: Fitted styles work well, but you may struggle with straight-cut items that gap at the waist when they fit the bust and hips. Look for stretch fabrics and adjustable waistbands. Wrap styles and belted looks emphasize your natural proportions. You may need different sizes in tops and bottoms, so separates often work better than one-piece items.

Inverted Triangle Shape

Broader shoulders and bust with narrower hips. Upper body measurements larger than lower body.

Sizing strategy: Size for your shoulders and bust in tops. Look for V-necks and details that draw the eye down. For balance, A-line skirts and wide-leg pants add visual weight to the lower body. Avoid shoulder pads or puffed sleeves that add more width on top.

Athletic Build

Well-defined muscles, often broader shoulders, fuller thighs, and less waist definition.

Sizing strategy: Standard sizing may feel tight through the shoulders, upper arms, and thighs. Look for stretch fabrics and athletic cuts. Brands like Athleta, Title Nine, and Universal Standard design with athletic bodies in mind. You may need to size up and have waists taken in.

Common Fit Problems and Solutions

Even with the right size, clothes can fit strangely. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them.

Gaping at the Bust

The problem: Shirts or dresses gap open between buttons at the bust, creating a peek-through effect.

The fix: Size up and have the waist taken in by a tailor. Or look for stretch fabrics, wrap styles, or tops without buttons. Fashion tape is a quick fix for occasional gaps.

The Waist Gap in Pants

The problem: Pants fit at the hips but have a gap at the back waistband big enough to stick your hand into.

The fix: This happens when your hip-to-waist ratio differs from the standard cut. Look for curvy-fit jeans designed with a higher hip-to-waist difference. Brands like Levi's, NYDJ, and Good American offer curvy cuts. A tailor can also take in the waistband.

Tight Arms

The problem: Sleeves feel constricting around the upper arms, even when the rest of the garment fits.

The fix: Look for raglan sleeves (which cut diagonally from the neckline) or dolman sleeves (loose and attached to the bodice). If you love a fitted sleeve, size up in tops and have excess fabric tailored at the torso.

Shoulder Seams Falling Off

The problem: The seam where the sleeve meets the shoulder droops past your actual shoulder.

The fix: The garment is too big in the shoulders. This is hard to fix with tailoring. Size down, or look for petite sizing which cuts narrower shoulders. Drop-shoulder styles intentionally sit lower, so those are fine.

Pants Too Tight in Thighs

The problem: Jeans fit at the waist but feel painted on through the thighs.

The fix: Look for stretch denim with at least 2% elastane. Wide-leg and straight-leg cuts work better for athletic or fuller thighs than skinny jeans. "Curvy" and "athletic" fits are designed with more room in the thigh.

Shirts Pulling at the Hips

The problem: Fitted shirts ride up or create horizontal pull lines at the hips.

The fix: Try a longer length or a different cut. Tunics and shirts labeled "long torso" give more coverage. Untucked styles that hit below the hip bone will hang better than ones that hit right at the widest point.

The Armhole Problem

The problem: Sleeveless tops have armholes that gape open, showing your bra.

The fix: This happens when armholes are cut too large or sit too far from your body. Look for higher-cut armholes. Fitted or darted tops work better than loose ones. Consider wearing a bandeau or bralette that is meant to be seen.

Smart Shopping Tips

A few strategies to make buying clothes less frustrating, especially when shopping online.

Know Your Measurements by Heart

Memorize your bust, waist, hip, and inseam measurements. Write them in your phone's notes app. When you find a size chart, compare your actual measurements rather than guessing based on size numbers you wear elsewhere.

Read Reviews Specifically About Fit

Filter reviews by people who mention their body type or measurements. A review that says "I'm 5'6" with a 32" waist and the size 10 fit perfectly" is more useful than "cute top!" Look for reviewers with similar proportions to yours.

Check the Model's Size

Many retailers now list the model's height and the size they're wearing. If the model is 5'10" wearing a size 4, and you are 5'4" and normally wear a size 4, the proportions will look different on you. Use this info to visualize how the garment will actually look.

Order Two Sizes When Unsure

If free returns are available, order your usual size plus one size up or down. It is easier to return one than to go through a whole exchange process later. Many brands now offer free return shipping specifically because sizing is such a gamble.

Pay Attention to Fabric Content

Fabrics with 2% or more elastane/spandex/lycra will stretch and be more forgiving. 100% cotton or linen will fit exactly as the measurements indicate and may shrink. Synthetics like polyester hold their shape but do not breathe. Factor this into your size choice.

Understand "True to Size" Is Subjective

When a brand says their clothes are "true to size," they mean true to their own size chart. Check that chart against your measurements. What Gap considers a size 8 might be completely different from what Zara considers a size 8.

Buy from Brands with Detailed Size Charts

The more measurements a brand provides, the better. Good size charts include bust, waist, hips, inseam, shoulder width, and garment length. Brands that only list S/M/L with no measurements are setting you up to gamble.

Consider Tailoring

A $15 alteration can make a $40 dress fit like it was made for you. Basic alterations like hemming pants, taking in a waist, or shortening sleeves are affordable and quick. Buy for your largest measurement and have the rest adjusted. It is often more economical than buying expensive "perfect fit" pieces.

Keep a Shopping Notes File

After each purchase, note what size you bought, how it fit, and whether you would size up or down next time. "Zara jeans - bought 10, should have gotten 12" saves you from repeating mistakes. Over time, you will build your own personal brand guide.

Final Thoughts

Women's sizing is genuinely chaotic, and that is not your fault. Between vanity sizing, international variations, and brands that seem to roll dice when creating their size charts, finding clothes that fit requires actual strategy.

The most useful thing you can do is know your body measurements and compare them to specific brand charts rather than trusting size numbers. A size 8 means nothing on its own. A 36" bust, 28" waist, and 38" hips gives you real information you can use anywhere in the world.

Keep this guide bookmarked for when you need to decode international sizes or remind yourself which brands run small. And remember, if a garment does not fit, it is the garment's problem, not your body's. There is no "ideal" size to be. There is just finding clothes that fit the body you actually have.