Why Clothing Sizes Vary So Much
If you've ever ordered clothes online from a foreign retailer — or picked up something in a shop abroad — you've probably run into the frustrating reality that clothing sizes are not standardized internationally. A US size 8 dress, a UK size 12, and a European size 38 can all refer to roughly the same garment. This guide cuts through the confusion.
Women's Clothing Sizes
| US Size | UK Size | EU Size | AU Size | General Fit |
|---|
| 0 | 4 | 32 | 4 | Extra Small |
| 2 | 6 | 34 | 6 | Extra Small |
| 4 | 8 | 36 | 8 | Small |
| 6 | 10 | 38 | 10 | Small |
| 8 | 12 | 40 | 12 | Medium |
| 10 | 14 | 42 | 14 | Medium |
| 12 | 16 | 44 | 16 | Large |
| 14 | 18 | 46 | 18 | Extra Large |
Men's Clothing Sizes (Shirts)
| US/UK Size | EU Size | Label |
|---|
| 34–36 | 44 | XS |
| 36–38 | 46 | S |
| 38–40 | 48 | M |
| 40–42 | 50 | L |
| 42–44 | 52 | XL |
| 44–46 | 54 | XXL |
Shoe Sizes: Men's
| US | UK | EU | CM (foot length) |
|---|
| 7 | 6 | 40 | 25.0 |
| 8 | 7 | 41 | 26.0 |
| 9 | 8 | 42 | 27.0 |
| 10 | 9 | 43 | 27.5 |
| 11 | 10 | 44 | 28.5 |
| 12 | 11 | 46 | 29.5 |
Shoe Sizes: Women's
| US | UK | EU | CM (foot length) |
|---|
| 5 | 3 | 35–36 | 22.0 |
| 6 | 4 | 37 | 23.0 |
| 7 | 5 | 38 | 24.0 |
| 8 | 6 | 39 | 25.0 |
| 9 | 7 | 40 | 25.5 |
| 10 | 8 | 41 | 26.5 |
Tips for Getting Your Size Right When Shopping Online
- Always check the retailer's own size chart — brand sizing varies even within the same country system.
- Measure yourself — know your bust, waist, and hip measurements in centimetres. Many international retailers list measurements directly.
- Read reviews for fit notes — shoppers often mention whether items run small, large, or true to size.
- Check return policies — when in doubt about sizing, buy from retailers with easy returns.
- For shoes, measure your foot length — EU sizes are based on foot length in centimetres and are often the most reliable reference across brands.
A Note on Size Variations
These tables represent general guidelines. Actual sizing can vary between brands, manufacturers, and even garment types within the same brand. Always treat conversion charts as a starting point, not a guarantee. When precision matters — especially for formal wear or shoes — always measure and cross-reference with the specific brand's size guide.
