International Size Chart Guide — US, UK & EU Conversion

Women's Size Conversion (US / UK / EU)

UK women's sizes generally run 4 sizes higher than US sizes for the same fit. EU sizes use a separate numbering scale entirely.

For plus-size specific ranges, see our plus size clothing manufacturer page. For smaller frames, see our petite clothing manufacturer page.

Men's Size Conversion (US / UK / EU)

Men's US and UK sizes are generally identical for tops (S/M/L/XL). EU sizing again uses a separate numbering scale.

Measurements above are chest circumference guides for standard fit tops. Actual measurements vary by brand, cut, and garment category — always confirm exact spec against your tech pack rather than relying on size labels alone.

What Is Grading?

Grading is the process of scaling a base pattern — usually a middle size like Medium — up and down to produce the full size range for a style. Rather than drafting each size from scratch, the pattern maker applies fixed measurement increments (the "grade rule") at each cutting point: chest, waist, hip, sleeve length, and so on.

A typical grade rule for a t-shirt might add 2 inches to the chest and 0.5 inches to the sleeve length between each size. These increments are documented in the grading specification, part of a complete tech pack.

Consistent grading across your size range matters for fit consistency — customers who buy a Medium in one style should get a comparable fit in Medium across your other styles. Poor grading is one of the most common causes of size-related returns.

Building a Size Chart for Production

When you send a size chart to a manufacturer, include measurement points specific to the garment type — for example, a t-shirt spec sheet needs chest, body length, shoulder width, sleeve length, and neck opening, measured flat (garment laid flat, not around the body).

Specify tolerance for each measurement point — typically ±0.5 to ±1 cm for most points, tighter for critical measurements like neck opening. This tolerance is what quality control checks against during inspection.

If you don't have an existing size chart, request a manufacturer's standard block pattern measurements as a starting point, then adjust based on your target market and fit preference (slim, regular, or relaxed).

Size Chart FAQ

What is a UK size 12 in US sizing? A UK size 12 in women's clothing is typically a US size 8. UK sizes generally run 4 sizes higher than US sizes for women's garments.

What is grading in clothing manufacturing? Grading is the process of scaling a base pattern up and down to create the full size range, following fixed measurement increments between each size.

How is EU size different from US size? EU sizing uses a different numbering scale entirely. A US size 8 (women's) is approximately EU size 38-40, and a US men's Medium is approximately EU size 48-50, though exact conversion varies by brand and garment type.

Do I need a different size chart for each garment type? Yes. A t-shirt, a pair of trousers, and a jacket each have different measurement points and fit conventions, so each garment type needs its own size chart, even within the same brand and size range.

Read our inclusive sizing guide for extended-range considerations, or learn how to create a tech pack for full spec documentation.