Shopping
How to compare fit when shopping online
Letter sizes are a starting point, not a fit guarantee. Comparing a listing with a garment you already like gives you a more useful reference.
01
Identify the measurement type
Check whether the chart gives body measurements or finished garment measurements. A garment needs appropriate ease around the body, and stretch changes how it behaves. Do not compare a flat garment width directly with a body circumference.
02
Use a known reference
Lay a similar garment flat and measure chest width, waist, rise, inseam or shoulder width as relevant. Follow the seller’s measurement method. Compare the areas that affect your comfort most, rather than averaging every number into one size.
03
Read shape as well as size
A correct waist measurement does not tell you thigh room or rise. Inspect the cut, fabric composition and whether the item has adjustable features. A styled photograph can hide excess fabric, so seek front, side and back views where available.
04
Include the return conditions
Check the selected seller’s return window, exclusions and return costs before ordering. On arrival, try sitting and walking while keeping labels intact. If the fit requires an alteration, consider its cost and feasibility before deciding to keep the piece.