Choose the right size

1. Sizes

Clothing sizes are often defined according to different systems depending on the region. Here are the main systems used:

European system (French)

  • Women's clothing :
    • Size: 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, etc.
    • These sizes are often accompanied by the mention "Size FR".
  • Men's clothing :
    • Size: 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54, etc.
    • These sizes generally correspond to the size of the chest tower in centimeters.

UK system (British)

  • Sizes are often noted with figures: 6, 8, 10, 12, etc. For women and 36, 38, 40, 42 for men.

US system (American)

  • Women's clothing : 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, etc.
  • Men's clothing : The sizes are often expressed in inches, especially for pants (ex: 30, 32, 34 inches).

International system (one -sized standard)

Certain clothes, including very adjusted accessories or clothing, can be offered in one size (T.U.), which corresponds to an average size generally ranging from 36 to 42 (woman).

2. How to choose the right size?

To choose the right size, it is essential to know your measurements and refer to the brand guide specific to the brand or to the store. As a rule, you will have to take the following measures:

  • Chest : measure around the widest part of your bust.
  • Waist : measure around the waist, at the narrowest location.
  • Hunter : measure around the widest part of your hips.
  • Leg length : Measure the crotch to the ankle to determine the length of the pants or skirts.
  • Arm length : For jackets, coats and shirts, measure shoulder on the wrist.

3. Tips for ready-to-wear sizes

  • Compare sizes guides : Sizes can vary from brand to brand, therefore always consult the specific size guides.
  • Try before buying : If possible, try the clothes before buying them to check their adjustment.
  • Take into account the cut : Some ready-to-wear parts are designed to be adjusted (such as clothing near the body), while others are more broad. Take into account the style and cut before choosing the size.
  • Stretch clothes : If the fabric is expandable, it can offer more flexibility in terms of size.

4. Specific sizes

Large sizes (more size)

Large clothes are often designated by the sizes "XL", "XXL" and beyond. In France, this generally corresponds to sizes from 46 for women and 50 for men. Many brands have developed special lines for people looking for larger sizes, offering suitable and comfortable cuts.

The small sizes (small size)

The clothes for small sizes are suitable for people measuring less than 1.60 m. These clothes are often designed to have adjusted proportions in size, hips and legs.

Maternity sizes

Maternity clothes are specially designed to adapt to the evolution of the silhouette during pregnancy. It is recommended to choose a size above your usual size for more comfort.

5. Advice for online purchases

Buying online clothes can be delicate due to size variations. Here are some tips to avoid mistakes:

  • Check the return policy : Make sure the store offers an easy return or exchange policy, in case the size does not suit you.
  • Read customer reviews : Comments can give useful information about how clothes cut and if the cut is true to the size indicated.
  • Use measurement applications : Some applications allow you to measure your body online, which can help you choose the exact size.

6. Current sizes table

Here is a table to help you convert clothing sizes according to different systems:

Size fr UK size US size Chest tower (cm) Waist tower (cm) Hip tour (cm)
34 6 2 80-84 60-64 86-90
36 8 4 85-89 65-69 91-95
38 10 6 90-94 70-74 96-100
40 12 8 95-99 75-79 101-105
42 14 10 100-104 80-84 106-110
44 16 12 105-109 85-89 111-115