Why UK sizes are not EU sizes

British high street labels still print a UK size, which runs roughly two numbers below the EU size on the same garment: a UK 12 in a dress is close to an EU 40. Menswear is simpler, since UK and US shirt and jacket sizes usually match, but trousers are often labelled by waist in inches rather than a letter size, which this tool does not cover.

Size chart by system

The table below converts a chosen size (or a set of measurements) across EU, US, UK, IT, and FR, separately for men and women, since the numbering is built differently for each. Selecting a starting size shows what the same garment would be labelled elsewhere; it is a label match, not a fit guarantee.

Limits of this converter

Clothing sizes are not tightly standardised between brands: a size 14 dress from a budget chain can sit a full size away from a size 14 at a premium label. The figures here follow commonly published size charts and give an indicative equivalence rather than a promise of fit. Always check the brand's own size guide before ordering from abroad.

Measuring yourself correctly

Use a soft tape held snug against the body but not pulled tight. Measure the chest or bust at its fullest point, the waist at the natural waistline (usually just above the belly button), and, for women, the hips at their widest point. Measuring over a t-shirt rather than a bulky jumper keeps the numbers close to what a garment size chart expects.