Does Erdem Run Big or Small? Fit Guide, Sizing Breakdown & What to Buy
Author: Stylist and brand team at TellarDate: 2025
Erdem is synonymous with romantic prints, exquisite tailoring, and poetic femininity. Founded by Canadian-Turkish designer Erdem Moralıoğlu, the brand has dressed everyone from the Duchess of Cambridge to Nicole Kidman. But despite its global reputation, many shoppers are left wondering: Does Erdem run true to size, small, or large?
With its structured silhouettes and fine European craftsmanship, the brand’s sizing can be challenging to navigate—especially for UK-based shoppers and those purchasing online.
This guide will break down how Erdem fits, what to expect across their key collections, and how to find your perfect size using Tellar.co.uk—the UK’s leading free sizing tool.
Does Erdem Run Big or Small?
In most cases, Erdem runs slightly small, especially in fitted dresses, corset styles, and structured tailoring. The brand’s pieces are carefully constructed and cut close to the body—meaning a UK 10 at Erdem can feel tighter than the same size at other British labels like Whistles or Boden.
Key Sizing Insights:
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Dresses and tailoring: Run small, especially in the bust and waist.
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Knitwear and relaxed styles: Typically true to size, with some flexibility.
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Trousers and skirts: Often slim cut at the waist and hips. Size up if you’re curvier.
👗 Real-world example: Many Tellar users who wear a UK 10 in Reiss or COS need a UK 12 in Erdem’s tailored dresses due to its narrow waist and rigid construction.
👉 Check your best Erdem size instantly at Tellar.co.uk
Understanding Erdem’s Fit by Category
Let’s break down Erdem’s sizing across core categories to help you shop with confidence.
1. Dresses – Signature Silhouette
Dresses are the heart of the Erdem collection, and where sizing discrepancies are most likely to arise.
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Fit: Slim through the waist and bust
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Length: Midi to maxi, sometimes with high necklines or puffed sleeves
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Fabric: Often woven with no stretch
🧵 Sizing advice: If you have a fuller bust or broad shoulders, consider sizing up—especially in corset bodices or high-neck styles.
📐 Tellar Tip: Erdem's dresses are where returns most commonly occur. Avoid the guesswork—use your exact measurements to get a perfect match.
2. Tops and Blouses
Erdem’s blouses often feature delicate ruffles, sheer lace, or high Edwardian collars.
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Fit: True to size, but with narrow sleeves and shoulders
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Closure: Buttons, ties, or concealed zips—sometimes non-stretch
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Best for: Eveningwear or formal layering
🩺 Sizing insight: Those with broader shoulders or muscular arms may need to size up for comfort.
3. Trousers and Skirts
Often crafted in luxe jacquard, silk, or crepe fabrics, Erdem’s bottoms are structured and formal.
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Fit: High-waisted, narrow through the hips
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Length: Typically full-length or midi
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Give: Minimal stretch
🎯 Who should size up? Anyone with fuller hips or a curvy waist-to-hip ratio.
4. Outerwear and Jackets
Coats and blazers are designed to flatter, often tailored with darted waists and sculpted sleeves.
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Fit: Slightly small, especially when worn over layers
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Sleeves: Often cut shorter for elegance
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Recommendation: Size up if layering over dresses or knitwear
📦 Bonus tip: Coat sizing in designer brands can vary widely by cut. Check your fit before you buy with Tellar.
Why Erdem Sizing Can Be Confusing
Erdem uses UK sizing on its website, but construction methods and fabric types follow high-end European tailoring principles. This results in:
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Slim cuts and minimal stretch
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Inconsistent sizing across styles
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A need to size up in structured garments but stay true in softer pieces
🧠 The smart fix? Use your actual body measurements (chest, waist, hips) and let Tellar.co.uk calculate your true Erdem size in seconds—no guesswork, no surprises.
What Are the Best Erdem Pieces to Invest In?
1. Floral Occasion Dresses
Erdem is famous for its lush florals and romantic shapes. Whether it’s the Cressida dress or the Ottilie gown, these investment pieces work beautifully for weddings, galas, or red-carpet moments.
💐 Fit note: Often cut small at the bodice—size up for comfort and layering.
2. Embroidered Blouses
From sheer lace collars to delicate floral embroidery, Erdem’s blouses are timeless. Pair them with wide-leg trousers or denim for a modern edge.
🌸 Fit note: These usually run true to size but are tailored, so precision matters.
3. Jacquard Skirts & Trousers
Often featuring rich textures or metallic threading, Erdem’s bottoms make bold wardrobe statements. They’re high-rise, elegant, and ideal for formal wear.
🎨 Fit note: Structured waistbands mean curvier shoppers often size up.
4. Evening Coats
The brand’s coats—such as the Melina wool coat—are structured yet elegant. Look for unique tailoring, dramatic cuffs, and unexpected details.
🧥 Fit note: Consider your layering needs before choosing a size.
How Tellar.co.uk Helps You Shop Erdem Confidently
Tellar takes the stress out of designer sizing—especially for tailored brands like Erdem.
With over 1,500 brands matched, including Erdem, you can:
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📏 Get a personalised size recommendation in under 60 seconds
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🔄 Convert EU/UK/US sizes automatically
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📦 Avoid returns with accurate fit data
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🎁 Receive a free measuring tape to measure yourself at home
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🔐 Create a profile and log in anytime to check your fit across brands
👉 Find your Erdem size instantly
Get Your Free Measuring Tape
Don’t know your current chest, waist, or hips?
We’ve got you covered.
🎁 Tellar will post you a free measuring tape, so you can get accurate sizing from home.
📬 Click here to request your tape —no shipping cost, no catch.
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Final Verdict: Is Erdem True to Size?
In short—Erdem runs small, especially in fitted and tailored pieces. While knitwear and blouses may be closer to UK sizing, anything structured (like dresses and outerwear) will likely require a size up, particularly if you have a fuller bust or hips.
Rather than risk an expensive return, try this:
✅ Create your free Tellar profile
✅ Order your free measuring tape
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