How to Read a Size Chart: A Body-Neutral Guide to Buying Clothes That Fit
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How to Read a Size Chart: A Body-Neutral Guide to Buying Clothes That Fit
Size labels are not a measure of you. A "medium" at one shop can be a "large" at another, and vintage sizing follows different standards altogether. The most reliable way to buy clothes that fit online is to know your measurements and compare them to each seller's chart. This guide shows you how, without judgment.
Why sizes vary so much
Every brand designs to its own fit model and its own idea of how a garment should sit. Cut, fabric and intended fit (slim, regular, relaxed, oversized) all change how a size wears. Vintage pieces often follow older sizing conventions. That's why your size number can change from shop to shop. It's the clothes, not you.
Step 1: Take your measurements
Use a soft tape measure. Wear thin clothing or none, stand relaxed, and keep the tape snug but not tight. Breathe normally.
- Chest or bust: around the fullest part, keeping the tape level.
- Waist: around your natural waist, which is usually the narrowest part of your torso or where you bend sideways. Also note where you like to wear waistbands, which may differ.
- Hips or seat: around the fullest part of your hips and seat.
- Inseam: from the crotch to where you want trousers to end. Measuring a pair of trousers that fit you well is easier.
- Shoulder width: from shoulder point to shoulder point across the back.
- Sleeve length: from the shoulder point to the wrist, with your arm slightly bent.
Write them down and save them on your phone. Re-measure occasionally, since bodies naturally change.
Step 2: Read the chart carefully
Charts usually list either body measurements or garment measurements, and the difference matters.
- Body measurements tell you which size is designed for a body your size. Compare directly with your numbers.
- Garment measurements are the clothing laid flat or measured around. They include ease (extra room). Compare them with a similar garment you own that fits the way you like.
Look for a note saying which type it is. If it says "flat," double the width to get the circumference.
Step 3: Read the fit notes
Product pages often include clues:
- "Runs small," "runs large" or "true to size."
- Intended fit: slim, regular, relaxed or oversized.
- Model info: the model's height and the size they're wearing. This is useful for length, though bodies differ in many ways.
- Fabric content: stretch fibers like elastane give more flexibility, while rigid fabrics like non-stretch denim or linen don't.
Step 4: Choosing between two sizes
If you fall between sizes:
- Prioritize the measurement that matters most for the garment: shoulders and chest for jackets, waist and hips for trousers, hips for fitted skirts.
- Think about stretch: stretchy fabrics can often go smaller; rigid fabrics usually do better in the larger size.
- Think about alterations: taking something in is generally easier than letting it out.
- Think about how you like to feel: some people like room to move, others like closer fits. Both are valid.
Step 5: Check the seller's returns before buying
Returns are set by each seller. Read the policy, especially for vintage or made-to-order pieces, which may be final sale.
Fit is personal and that's good
The "right" fit is the one that feels comfortable and makes you feel like yourself. Ignore rules about what certain bodies "should" wear. Clothes are there to serve you.
How ShopFashion.si uses your size
When you tell the stylist your size (or measurements), it filters outfits to pieces available in that size and passes along seller fit notes where available. You still compare against each seller's chart, and this guide makes that quick. Try it on an event: winter wedding guest outfits or a holiday party look.
FAQ
Why does my size change between brands? Each brand designs to its own fit standards and intended silhouette. Compare your measurements to each seller's chart rather than relying on the size label.
What's the difference between body and garment measurements? Body measurements describe the body a size is designed for. Garment measurements describe the clothing itself, including extra room.
What if I'm between sizes? Prioritize the key measurement for that garment, consider stretch and alterations, and choose the fit you find most comfortable.
Want outfits filtered to your size? Tell the SI your size and budget →
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