Does Hobbs Run Big? The Complete Sizing Guide You Need

Hobbs runs true to UK sizing, but with a structured, tailored fit that can feel snugger than other brands—especially across the bust and shoulders in blazers and dresses. After years of styling clients in this beloved British brand, I can tell you that understanding Hobbs' precise tailoring is key to getting that perfect fit every time.

Let me share everything you need to know about navigating Hobbs sizing, from their signature workwear to those gorgeous occasion dresses that have become wardrobe staples for so many of my clients.

The Truth About Hobbs Sizing

Here's what I've learned from fitting countless clients in Hobbs pieces: whilst their numerical sizing aligns with standard UK measurements, the cut is decidedly more precise and structured than what you'll find at many other brands. Think of it as European-style tailoring with British sensibilities.

Their blazers and work dresses are cut close to the body—brilliant for that polished, professional silhouette, but potentially problematic if you're used to the more relaxed fits from brands like M&S or Next. I always tell my clients that Hobbs assumes you want to look sharp and put-together, not relaxed and casual.

Where Hobbs Can Catch You Out

The bust and shoulder area is where I see the most sizing issues with Hobbs. Their shift dresses and blazers can be quite snug across these areas, particularly if you're fuller-busted. If you're between sizes, I always recommend sizing up—especially for workwear pieces where you might be layering underneath.

Their trousers, particularly the smart tailored styles, assume a fairly streamlined silhouette. If you carry weight around your hips or prefer a bit more room, consider the next size up. The petite range works beautifully for anyone 5'3" and under, whilst their regular length suits most women up to about 5'7".

My Styling Tips for Different Hobbs Pieces

Workwear: Their blazers and shift dresses are investment pieces, but size carefully. If you plan to wear a blazer over knitwear, definitely size up. For their signature sleeveless shift dresses, stick to your usual size but check the shoulder seam sits correctly.

Occasion wear: Their party dresses often have beautiful structured bodices. These can be quite fitted, so if you're between sizes or want to feel comfortable for an entire evening, go up a size.

Knitwear: Generally true to size, though their merino pieces can feel snug initially. They do relax slightly with wear.

How Hobbs Compares to Other Brands

If you're a comfortable size 12 in Zara, COS, or Mango, you'll likely be the same in Hobbs, but expect a more fitted result. Compared to Reiss (similar quality bracket), Hobbs runs slightly smaller in structured pieces. Against LK Bennett, they're quite similar, though LK Bennett can be more forgiving in dresses.

For context with other premium brands: Jigsaw tends to have a more relaxed fit, whilst Whistles is similarly precise but often more contemporary in cut. Me&Em offers more stretch and ease, making it more forgiving than Hobbs' structured approach.

Brand Alternatives by Price Point

High Street: If you love Hobbs' aesthetic but want more size flexibility, try Phase Eight for similar sophistication with slightly more forgiving fits, or Ted Baker for that same attention to detail with modern sizing.

Premium:LK Bennett offers comparable quality with similar sizing, whilst Reiss provides that sharp tailoring with slightly more contemporary proportions.

Luxury: For that elevated version of Hobbs' aesthetic, consider Max Mara Weekend for beautifully cut pieces, or explore Joseph for that same structured elegance with more modern proportions.

Two independent brands worth knowing about: Masai Clothing offers beautifully made pieces with more relaxed, European sizing, whilst Seasalt Cornwall provides that same British heritage feel with more accommodating fits and sustainable practices.

Never Guess Your Size Again with Tellar

Here's where I always direct my clients: tellar.co.uk is the UK's leading sizing tool that matches your body exactly to over 1,500 brands instantly. No more size guide confusion, no more guessing whether that Hobbs blazer will actually fit.

How Tellar Works:

1. Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or even your existing brand size

2. Use their Store Size Lookup tool to get your precise size in any brand—Hobbs, COS, Reiss, Everlane, Arket and more. Check it out here: tellar.co.uk

3. Always free, no downloads needed—works directly in your browser

Plus: The Tellar Fashion Hub

Beyond sizing, there's the Tellar Fashion Hub—a comprehensive library of free posts from expert stylists. Honest, unbiased, independent advice that's always free. Whether you need style guidance, top picks, or brand recommendations, it's all there.

For more detailed guidance, check out these essential reads:

The Bottom Line on Hobbs Sizing

Hobbs doesn't run big—it runs true to size with precision tailoring that creates a polished, structured silhouette. If you're used to looser fits or are between sizes, size up. If you love sharp, well-tailored pieces that skim rather than overwhelm your figure, Hobbs sizing will work beautifully for you.

The key is understanding what you're buying into: investment pieces designed to last, with the kind of tailoring that elevates your entire wardrobe. With tools like Tellar taking the guesswork out of sizing, there's never been a better time to invest in pieces that truly fit.