Does Boden Run Big? The Ultimate Sizing Guide

No, Boden doesn't typically run big—the British brand generally runs true to size with some jersey pieces offering a slightly generous fit. As someone who's been styling clients for over a decade, I can tell you that Boden's approach to sizing is refreshingly consistent, which is exactly why so many women return to them season after season.

Let me break this down for you properly, because getting your Boden sizing right first time is absolutely crucial given their premium price point. I've dressed countless clients in Boden pieces, and here's what you really need to know.

The Truth About Boden Sizing

Boden takes a methodical approach to fit, designing their clothes to flatter rather than simply follow fast fashion trends. Their sizing philosophy centres around creating pieces that work for real women's bodies, which means they're generally spot-on with their measurements.

Jersey dresses and knitwear: These tend to be the most forgiving pieces in their range. Think relaxed fits that move with you—perfect for busy mums or anyone who values comfort without sacrificing style. You might find these run slightly generous, so if you're between sizes and prefer a closer fit, consider sizing down.

Tailored pieces: Blazers, structured dresses, and crisp shirts can feel neat, particularly around the shoulders and bust. If you're fuller-chested or have broader shoulders, you'll likely want to size up in these pieces.

Trousers and jeans: These are brilliantly consistent. Boden designs with UK body proportions in mind, and their waistbands are typically true to size. The bonus? They offer petite, regular, and tall lengths, which makes finding your perfect fit so much easier.

How Boden Compares to Other Brands

Unlike Zara (which famously runs small and inconsistent), or H&M (which varies wildly between pieces), Boden maintains remarkable sizing consistency. When I'm styling clients, I can confidently recommend their usual Boden size because I know it'll work.

For context, COS tends to run large in their oversized pieces, whilst Whistles often runs small in tailoring. Jigsaw is similar to Boden in their approach—true to size with quality construction. White Stuff and Monsoon both offer more generous fits in their casual ranges, whilst Reiss runs notably small in fitted pieces.

My Professional Sizing Recommendations

High Street Alternatives: If you love Boden's aesthetic but want to experiment, try Boden itself first, then explore similar fits at M&S for their Per Una range (generous fitting), Next for workwear basics (true to size), or Fat Face for casual pieces (slightly generous).

Premium Options: Step up to ME+EM for elevated basics with similar sizing principles, or LK Bennett for workwear that runs true to size with impeccable tailoring.

Luxury Picks: Max Mara offers timeless pieces with generous fits in outerwear, whilst luxury doesn't always mean better sizing—many designer brands run small, so always check individual measurements.

Unique Finds: I'm currently obsessing over Damson Madder for their playful takes on classic silhouettes—they run true to size with distinctive design details that make your outfit memorable. For sustainable luxury, The Slow Label creates timeless staples with a contemporary twist, sized consistently for real women.

My Top Tips for Boden Shopping

Always check their detailed size charts—Boden provides actual garment measurements, not just body measurements. This is gold dust for online shopping. Look for the bust, waist, and hip measurements of the actual piece, then compare to your favourite well-fitting items at home.

Remember that Boden uses UK sizing, so if you're shopping from abroad, convert carefully. A UK 10 equals a US 6, for example.

Their customer service is exceptional—if you're unsure, call them. They'd rather help you get the right size first time than deal with returns.

Never Guess Your Size Again with Tellar

Here's where I revolutionise your shopping game entirely. tellar.co.uk is the UK's leading sizing tool that matches your body exactly to over 1500 brands instantly. No more size chart confusion, no more returns—just perfect fits every time.

How Tellar Works:

Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or input your existing brand size
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Trust me, once you start using Tellar, you'll wonder how you ever shopped without it. No more sizing anxiety, no more returns—just perfectly fitting clothes that make you look and feel incredible.