Actual measurements vs. size chart measurements

IdaLu

I have a question about garments’ fit correspondence to sizing chart measurements. According to my actual measurements at the bust, waist, and hips (34.5, 28 and 36 inches, respectively), I should wear a 4 or even a 6 in Misses. I actually wear a Petite 0 or Petite petite in Talbots, and wore a 00 in a J Crew skirt i tried on the other day. Is there a way to predict the sizes based on the measurements listed in the sizing charts? If this post looks familiar, it's because I also posted it on the end of the recent blog post on "universal fit challenges".

9 years ago

Shopping

5 replies

Latest reply was from IdaLu

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

I'm afraid not. The best that you can do is become familiar with how a retailer runs in size compared to other retailers. Like Talbots runs very big and is suited to very curvy figures.

J.Crew unfortunately runs the gamut. Usually though, they run about a size bigger I've found, so I know I need to size down with them in tailored items. I size down two sizes in baggier items.

Ann Taylor and the Loft run very big. Almost like Talbots. BR is heading that way too.

Zara, Theory, many designers, and Club Monaco tend to run narrower so I know their XS or size 0 will usually fit my slight frame. But Zara's oversized tops have been VERY oversized this season (my size L clients fit into an S).

Boden does and excellent job with their measurements - VERY accurate.

9 years ago

jacquez

Active Member

I like that Boden tells you garment measurements AND body measurements. I used to get a lot of my work wardrobe from there and being able to adjust based on each particular garment was very helpful.

9 years ago

Ginger

Veteran

Lands' End is another who provides actual garment measurements; they've been very helpful. IdaLu, I'm pretty accurately a size 6 in bust and waist. I'm also 5'9". Thanks to the garment measurements provided, I've ordered well-fitting LE sweaters in size XS - both regular and Petite. Part of this is my preference (I don't like a baggy fit in the body) but XS is by no means a "sweater girl" fit - it's excellent in shoulders, bust, and waist. Petites in short sleeves fit me perfectly; on long sleeves, I can almost go either way. I'm very happy at the opportunity to find a fit I like, due to them providing measurements.

9 years ago

Anonymous

Some stores will give you the garment measurements if you call and ask.

9 years ago

IdaLu

(website)

Active Member

Thanks so very much for all of your helpful replies. Your assessments of individual retailers will help a lot.

I always enjoy reading everyone's posts.

9 years ago

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