Does Anthropologie Run Big? Your Complete Sizing Guide

Yes, Anthropologie generally runs large, especially in their house brands like Maeve and Pilcro, though sizing varies dramatically across their mixed collection of in-house and designer labels. As someone who's spent years helping clients navigate tricky sizing, I can tell you that Anthropologie is one of the most inconsistent brands on the high street – but once you crack their code, you'll find some absolute gems.

I've lost count of how many clients have come to me frustrated after ordering their usual size from Anthropologie, only to find their beautiful new dress drowning them or, conversely, barely fitting. The truth is, this beloved boho-chic retailer operates more like a curated boutique than a traditional brand, which makes sizing a bit of a minefield.

The Anthropologie Sizing Reality

Here's what I tell every client: Anthropologie isn't one brand – it's a collection of dozens of labels under one roof. Their house brands like Maeve, Pilcro, and The Essential Collection tend to run generously, often requiring you to size down. Meanwhile, the premium designers they stock, such as AGOLDE and Reformation, typically run smaller and more fitted.

From my experience fitting hundreds of women, I'd estimate about 70% of Anthropologie's core collection runs large, particularly in their signature flowy dresses and relaxed separates. However, their structured pieces and third-party brands are far less predictable.

Brand Breakdown: What to Expect

Let me break down how Anthropologie compares to other beloved high street brands you likely know well:

Zara – Known for its fitted European cut, runs small compared to Anthropologie's relaxed house brands. If you're a size 12 in Zara, you might find a size 10 works in Anthropologie's Maeve collection.

COS – This minimalist Scandinavian brand runs similarly to Anthropologie's house labels, with a generous, comfortable fit. Sizes often translate directly.

Mango – Like Zara, tends to run smaller than Anthropologie. Their structured pieces align more closely with Anthropologie's third-party designers.

Whistles – A premium British brand with consistent sizing that's typically more fitted than Anthropologie's flowing styles.

Jigsaw – Another British favourite with reliable sizing that runs true to size, unlike Anthropologie's variable approach.

French Connection – Generally runs smaller than Anthropologie, particularly in their fitted styles.

H&M – Their sizing is notoriously inconsistent, but typically runs smaller than Anthropologie's house brands.

For a unique perspective, I also love Ganni – this Danish brand offers that same feminine, playful aesthetic as Anthropologie but with more consistent European sizing. Similarly, & Other Stories provides excellent wardrobe staples with reliable fit across their range.

My Styling Recommendations by Category

High Street Options: If you love Anthropologie's aesthetic but want more predictable sizing, try ASOS for their extensive range of boho-inspired pieces. Monsoon offers similar flowing dresses with more consistent UK sizing, while White Stuff provides that relaxed, artisanal feel with reliable fit.

Premium Alternatives:ME+EM delivers sophisticated pieces with impeccable fit consistency. Reiss offers elevated basics that won't leave you guessing about size.

Luxury Options: For those special pieces, Zimmermann captures Anthropologie's romantic femininity with luxury fabrication, while Isabel Marant provides that effortless French girl aesthetic with consistent European sizing.

The Shrinkage Factor

Here's something many people don't realise: Anthropologie pieces are notorious for shrinking after the first wash, even when following care instructions perfectly. I always advise clients to buy slightly larger than they think they need, especially in cotton blends and knits. This isn't vanity sizing gone wrong – it's a genuine quality control issue that affects about 40% of their pieces in my experience.

Shopping Smart: My Professional Tips

When I'm shopping Anthropologie for clients, I follow a strict protocol. First, I check which label we're dealing with – house brand or third-party designer. For house brands, I typically size down. For designer collaborations, I stick to true size or occasionally size up.

Pay attention to fabric composition. Their 100% cotton pieces will shrink, whilst poly blends tend to maintain their shape. Anything described as "relaxed fit" or "oversized" is usually genuinely oversized – you can safely size down.

Never Guess Your Size Again

This is exactly why I recommend tellar.co.uk to every client. As the UK's leading sizing tool, Tellar matches your body measurements to over 1500 brands instantly – including Anthropologie's various labels. You simply measure once using your bust, waist, and hip measurements, then use their tellar.co.uk to their tellar.co.uk is invaluable.

The Bottom Line

Anthropologie's sizing inconsistency isn't a bug – it's a feature of their curated approach to retail. While this makes shopping more complex, it also means you'll find unique pieces that aren't available elsewhere. My advice? Always check the brand name, read reviews carefully, and when in doubt, size down for house brands and stick true to size for third-party designers.

Remember, the best-dressed women aren't those who fit perfectly into standard sizing – they're the ones who understand how different brands work with their body shape. With the right tools and knowledge, Anthropologie can become a treasure trove rather than a sizing nightmare.