Why Getting Your Size Right Matters More Online
Online fashion shopping is one of the greatest conveniences of modern life — endless selection, competitive pricing, shopping from your sofa. But sizing remains the number one pain point for online shoppers. Different brands use different size standards, international conversions add confusion, and the photo on the model does not always tell the full story.
This guide fixes that. Follow these steps and you will buy the right size the first time, every time.
Step 1: Take Your Measurements at Home
Accurate measurements are everything. You need a soft measuring tape and ideally a friend to help, though you can do it alone.
The 5 Essential Measurements
1. Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the ground. Do not pull too tight — the tape should sit comfortably against your skin. Breathe normally. Record in both inches and centimeters.
2. Waist
Measure around the narrowest part of your waist, typically 1-2 inches above your belly button. Do not suck in your stomach — measure your natural, relaxed waist.
3. Hips
Measure around the widest part of your hips and seat, typically 7-9 inches below your natural waistline. Keep the tape parallel to the floor.
4. Inseam (for trousers)
Measure from the crotch seam down the inside of your leg to your ankle bone. This determines trouser length.
5. Height
Know your height in both feet/inches and centimeters. This helps determine if a dress or trouser length will hit at the right point on your frame.
Pro Tips for Accurate Measuring
- Measure in fitted underwear or a thin base layer — not over bulky clothing
- Stand straight, feet together, weight evenly distributed
- Retake each measurement twice to confirm
- Record measurements in a notes app on your phone for easy reference when shopping
Step 2: International Size Conversion Reference
Sizing standards vary significantly between countries. Here is a general conversion guide:
XS (US 0-2 / UK 6-8 / EU 32-34): Bust 31-33 in, Waist 23-25 in, Hips 33-35 in
S (US 4-6 / UK 8-10 / EU 36-38): Bust 33-35 in, Waist 25-27 in, Hips 35-37 in
M (US 8-10 / UK 12-14 / EU 40-42): Bust 35-37 in, Waist 27-29 in, Hips 37-39 in
L (US 12-14 / UK 16-18 / EU 44-46): Bust 37-40 in, Waist 29-32 in, Hips 39-42 in
XL (US 16-18 / UK 20-22 / EU 48-50): Bust 40-43 in, Waist 32-35 in, Hips 42-45 in
XXL (US 20-22 / UK 24-26 / EU 52-54): Bust 43-46 in, Waist 35-38 in, Hips 45-48 in
3XL (US 24+ / UK 28+ / EU 56+): Bust 46-49 in, Waist 38-41 in, Hips 48-51 in
Note: These are general guidelines. Always check the specific brand's size chart, as individual brands may deviate from standard sizing.
Step 3: Read Brand Size Charts Correctly
- Always use body measurements, not the size number. A size 10 at one brand may have the same measurements as a size 14 at another.
- Check if the chart shows body or garment measurements. Body measurements tell you what fits your body; garment measurements tell you the actual dimensions of the item.
- Look at multiple measurement points. If you are between sizes on the bust but align on the waist, size up and consider whether the garment has stretch.
- Read the product description for fit notes. Good brands will state if a style runs small, large, or true to size.
Step 4: Match the Garment Type to Your Body
Dresses
- Wrap dresses: Size for your hips and bust — the adjustable waist accommodates variation
- Bodycon dresses: Size for your largest measurement (usually hips or bust), especially if the fabric has limited stretch
- A-line and maxi dresses: Size for the bust and bodice — the skirt is typically forgiving
- Slip dresses: Size for your bust — these are meant to be relaxed through the body
Trousers and Jeans
- Always size for your hips, then check the waist measurement — most trousers can be taken in at the waist by a tailor inexpensively
- For wide-leg trousers, the waist and hip measurements matter most — the leg width is intentionally generous
Tops and Blouses
- Size for your bust unless the top has a very fitted cut, in which case also check the shoulder measurement
- For button-front blouses, check that the bust measurement has at least 2 inches of ease
Step 5: Online Shopping Tips That Prevent Returns
Check the Return Policy First
Before purchasing, always review the returns policy. A generous return window removes the risk from trying new styles and sizes.
Read Customer Reviews for Fit Notes
Look for reviews that mention fit — particularly from customers who share your measurements or body type. Phrases like 'runs small in the bust' or 'very true to size' are gold.
Study Multiple Product Images
Check front, back, and side views. Look for how the garment sits on the model's body, and check if the model's height and size are listed — this helps you gauge how the length will land on you.
When In Doubt, Size Up
It is almost always easier to have a garment taken in by a tailor than let out. If you are between sizes, size up for non-stretch fabrics and go true to size for stretch fabrics.
What to Do If It Does Not Fit
- Too big everywhere: A tailor can take in the sides — inexpensive and effective for most styles
- Too small in the bust, fits waist: Consider a different neckline style next time
- Too long: Hemming is the simplest and cheapest alteration — any tailor can do this in minutes
- Correct size but wrong fit: Note the brand and style for future reference so you know to size differently next time
Shop MILOR with Confidence
At MILOR, every product page includes a detailed size chart and model measurements so you can shop with full confidence. Our collections are available in sizes XS through 3XL, and our customer team is available to help you find the perfect fit. If an item does not work, we offer easy 30-day returns — no stress, no hassle.
Shop MILOR — Find Your Perfect Fit
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