How does clothes sizing work?
How Clothes Sizing Really Works (And Why It’s So Confusing)
Ever ordered your usual size online only to find it fits like a completely different number? You’re not alone — and no, your body isn’t changing overnight. The truth is, clothes sizing is anything but standardised, and it’s a lot more complex (and frustrating) than it seems.
So how can I find my correct size?
Use Tellar.co.uk, https://tellar.co.uk, it’s a free app and website which will match your body measurements to over 1500 clothes brands size charts, to give your perfect fit every time.
So… how does clothes sizing actually work?
- There’s No Universal Standard
Clothing sizes differ from brand to brand — and even from item to item within the same brand. What’s labeled a size “Medium” in one store could be a “Small” or even a “Large” somewhere else. That’s because there’s no universal sizing system that all brands follow. They each create their own size charts based on their ideal customer base or target demographic.
- Vanity Sizing is Real
Many brands use “vanity sizing,” which means they deliberately label clothes as smaller sizes to make customers feel better. So that size 10 pair of jeans you love? It might actually measure closer to a size 12 — but the tag says 10 because that number feels better. While it might boost confidence in the fitting room, it makes it impossible to rely on numbers alone when shopping.
- Fit Depends on Style and Cut
Beyond the size label, fit also depends on how a garment is designed to sit on the body. Slim fit, boyfriend cut, oversized, tapered, cropped… all these styling terms affect how something fits, even if the label stays the same. That’s why your go-to size might feel different depending on the style or fabric.
- Menswear vs. Womenswear
Men’s sizes are usually based on measurements (inches or cm), especially for trousers (waist/inseam), making them a bit more predictable. Women’s sizes, however, are often based on arbitrary numbers (like 8, 12, 16) or vague labels (S, M, L), and they vary wildly between brands and countries.
- International Differences
A UK 10 is not a US 10. And European sizes? Another story altogether. Every region has its own system, so it’s important to check conversion charts if you’re shopping from international stores.
So What Can You Do?
Use Tellar.co.uk, https://tellar.co.uk, it’s a free app and website which will match your body measurements to over 1500 clothes brands size charts, to give your perfect fit every time.
Here’s the bottom line: don’t trust the tag — trust the fit.
If you’re shopping online:
- Always check the store’s specific size chart.
- Look for reviews that mention fit and body type.
- Take your actual body measurements (chest, waist, hips) and compare them to size guides.
- When in doubt, size up — it’s easier to tailor something down than stretch it out!
And if you’re tired of the guessing game, tools like Tellar can help match your measurements to the best-fitting size across different brands — no more trial and error.
So how can I find my correct size?
Use Tellar.co.uk, https://tellar.co.uk, it’s a free app and website which will match your body measurements to over 1500 clothes brands size charts, to give your perfect fit every time.