Banana Republic has long been known for elevated workwear, modern essentials, and polished casual pieces that span office to off-duty. But as a global brand originally founded in the US, the big question for UK and European shoppers remains:
Does Banana Republic run big or small?
In this guide, we’ll break down how Banana Republic fits across categories, how it compares to UK and EU sizing, and how Tellar.co.uk helps you find your perfect Banana Republic size instantly — based on your real body measurements.
About Banana Republic: American Heritage, Global Reach
Founded in California in 1978, Banana Republic started as a safari-themed retailer before evolving into a modern brand known for refined basics, tailored trousers, cashmere knits, and smart dresses. It sits between mainstream and premium — offering good quality at relatively accessible prices.
Owned by Gap Inc., Banana Republic uses US sizing standards by default — which can lead to confusion when shopping from the UK or EU, especially for structured pieces like blazers, dresses, and trousers.
So, Does Banana Republic Run Big or Small?
Short answer: Banana Republic tends to run slightly large, especially in tops, dresses, and outerwear.
However, some items are more fitted, particularly in trousers and tailored blazers.
| Category | Fit Summary |
|---|---|
| Tops & T-shirts | Run large – relaxed through body and sleeves |
| Dresses | Often roomy in waist and hips – size down if between sizes |
| Knitwear | True to size, sometimes oversized |
| Jeans & Trousers | True to size or slightly snug at waist |
| Coats & Blazers | Roomy – designed for layering |
| Shirts | Boxier fit – may size down for slim look |
In general, Banana Republic’s core fit reflects American sizing norms — broader cuts, roomier silhouettes, and more generous sleeve/head openings than many UK or European brands.
Tellar.co.uk User Feedback on Banana Republic Fit
Based on thousands of customer fit reviews and user-generated size data on Tellar.co.uk, here’s what shoppers commonly say about Banana Republic:
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“Great quality but I wish I’d gone down a size – especially in the shirts”
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“The blazer was beautifully made but ran big in the shoulders”
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“Trousers were a perfect length but needed a belt — waist ran big”
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“Soft jumpers but quite oversized — I returned for a smaller size”
These experiences confirm a consistent trend: Banana Republic favours relaxed or classic American cuts, not slim European tailoring.
US vs UK Sizing: Why It Matters
Banana Republic garments are usually sized using US sizes, meaning:
| US Size | UK Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 0 | UK 4 |
| 2 | UK 6 |
| 4 | UK 8 |
| 6 | UK 10 |
| 8 | UK 12 |
| 10 | UK 14 |
| 12 | UK 16 |
However, even with this conversion, Banana Republic often fits one-half to one full size larger than UK brands like Reiss, Whistles or Zara.
So if you typically wear a UK 10, a US 4 (labelled UK 8) from Banana Republic might still fit well — especially if the garment is described as “relaxed fit” or “classic cut.”
How Banana Republic Compares to Other Brands
| Brand | Fit Comparison |
|---|---|
| Reiss | Banana Republic is more generous in cut |
| COS | BR is less architectural, more classic |
| J.Crew | Similar relaxed fit, but BR has better tailoring options |
| Massimo Dutti | Banana Republic is less fitted in the bust and waist |
| & Other Stories | BR is longer in sleeve and body, more traditional fit |
If you’re used to high-street UK brands, expect Banana Republic to feel more forgiving, especially in tailored pieces and knitwear.
The Best Way to Shop Banana Republic: Use Tellar.co.uk
Rather than guessing between sizes or relying on general conversion charts, you can use Tellar.co.uk to get your exact Banana Republic size, based on your real measurements and how the garments fit.
Tellar’s process:
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Create a free profile in less than a minute
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Enter your chest, waist, and hip measurements — or select a size from a brand you already wear
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Choose CM or inches
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Get your personal Banana Republic size recommendation instantly
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See your best size in 1,500+ brands going forward
✅ Find your Banana Republic size now
🎁 Request your free measuring tape — we’ll post one to your home.
When to Size Down in Banana Republic
Based on Tellar data and garment reviews, you may want to size down in:
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Relaxed-fit dresses – these run roomy in the waist/hips
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Classic-cut blazers or coats – designed for layering, often oversized
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Boxy cotton shirts – roomy in shoulders, straight through torso
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Knitwear with drop shoulders or wide sleeves
However, items labelled “slim fit,” “fitted,” or “sculpted” tend to run closer to size — especially in structured trousers and occasionwear.
Related Posts from Tellar.co.uk
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Final Verdict: Banana Republic = Comfortable, But Size Down with Care
Banana Republic delivers classic styling and solid wardrobe staples — but its sizing reflects US-market expectations: looser fits, longer sleeves, and more room through the bust and torso.
If you’re used to UK or European labels, you’ll often want to size down, especially for a closer fit in shirts, dresses, and knitwear. For trousers or tailored pieces, use Tellar to get the right balance between waist, hip, and rise.
✅ Get your personalised Banana Republic size now — free, fast, and always accurate.
Start here with Tellar.co.uk