Clothing size & measurement resources
Use these guides to measure consistently, understand clothing size labels, and compare brand charts before you order.
Estimate your size
Enter body measurements to obtain a starting-point clothing size estimate.
Open Apparel CalculatorCompare brands
Use the directory to find sizing references, then check the current chart on the retailer's website.
Browse Brand DirectoryConvert units
Convert inches, centimeters, and other common measurement units.
Open Unit ConverterHow to take clothing measurements
- Use a flexible tape measure: keep the tape level and snug, but do not pull it tight enough to compress the body.
- Chest or bust: measure around the fullest part, with arms relaxed and the tape parallel to the floor.
- Waist: measure at the natural waistline, generally above the belly button and below the ribs, without holding your breath.
- Hips: measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, with feet together.
- Inseam: measure from the crotch to the desired pant hem along the inside leg; a well-fitting pair of pants can also be measured flat.
- Record units: note whether your measurements are in inches or centimeters and use the same units as the brand chart.
For the most reliable fit, have another person help measure, repeat each measurement, and compare with the product's fit notes.
Inches and centimeters: quick reference
The exact conversion is 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters. Divide centimeters by 2.54 to get inches.
| Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|
| 20 | 50.8 |
| 25 | 63.5 |
| 30 | 76.2 |
| 35 | 88.9 |
| 40 | 101.6 |
| 45 | 114.3 |
Why clothing sizes vary by brand
Size labels such as S, M, L, or a numerical size are not uniform across manufacturers. Brand-specific grading, garment style, intended ease, fabric stretch, and regional labeling can change the fit. A "medium" in one garment should not be assumed equivalent to a "medium" in another.
Before purchasing: compare your measurements with that product's current official chart, inspect the item's cut (slim, regular, relaxed), read material descriptions, and review the retailer's return policy. Use the SizeAreRight calculator as a starting estimate, not a guarantee of fit.
Frequently asked questions
Is a US clothing size always equivalent to a UK or EU size?
No. Conversion tables are approximate and differ by apparel category and brand. Check the specific manufacturer's chart rather than relying on a generic cross-region conversion.
Should I measure my body or my favorite garment?
Use body measurements when the retailer chart specifies body dimensions. When the chart specifies finished garment dimensions, measure a similarly styled garment you already own and account for the desired ease.
What if I fall between two sizes?
Consider the garment's cut, fabric stretch, and your preferred fit. Compare the relevant dimensions rather than automatically sizing up or down.
Can I rely on the calculator for a perfect fit?
No. It provides an estimate. Fit depends on garment construction and personal preference, and official brand guidance takes precedence.
Independent references
For general measurement context, consult NIST's Office of Weights and Measures. For a purchase, use the product manufacturer's current size guide and care label.
Questions or corrections?
If you spot a sizing chart discrepancy or need assistance navigating our tools, visit our Contact page. SizeAreRight.com is a FreelanceLadder.ai product by SARC LLC, with business address at 8401 Mayland Dr, Richmond, VA 23294.