Does Hollister Run Big? The Complete Sizing Guide You Need

No, Hollister doesn't run big – it actually runs quite small, typically requiring you to size up one to two sizes from your usual UK high street sizing. As someone who's spent years navigating the quirks of American teen brands, I can tell you that Hollister's sizing is one of the trickiest to master, but once you crack the code, you'll find some brilliant basics for your wardrobe.

The reason behind Hollister's smaller sizing lies in its target demographic. Originally designed for American teenagers aged 14-18, the brand's sizing reflects a younger, slimmer fit. This means if you're a UK size 12, you'll likely need a Large or even Extra Large in Hollister – and there's absolutely no shame in that sizing game!

Understanding Hollister's Sizing Philosophy

Having worked with clients who've been confused by Hollister's sizing for years, I've discovered the brand operates on what I call "aspirational sizing." Their XS is designed for someone who'd typically wear a size 6-8 in Zara (known for their European sizing that tends to run slightly larger than traditional UK sizing), whilst their Small fits more like a UK 8-10.

The inconsistency doesn't end there. Different categories within Hollister fit differently too. Their denim tends to be more true to size compared to their tops, whilst their classic button-down shirts run particularly small through the bust and shoulders. I always advise clients to pay special attention to the chest measurements if you're curvier – you might need to go up two sizes in shirts compared to just one in their casual tees.

The Hollister Sizing Matrix Decoded

Here's my tried-and-tested conversion guide based on years of shopping experience:

For Tops: If you're usually a UK 8, go for Medium. UK 10-12? Large is your friend. UK 14-16? Extra Large will give you the fit you're after.

For Denim: This is where things get slightly easier. Their jeans sizing is closer to standard American sizing, so a UK 10 typically translates to their Size 6 or 8, depending on the cut. Their mom jeans and straight-leg styles have been particularly popular with my clients lately – they're having a major moment and offer more room than their skinny styles.

Shopping Smart: Where Else to Find Similar Styles

If Hollister's sizing puts you off, plenty of other brands offer that relaxed Californian aesthetic with more consistent sizing. Abercrombie & Fitch (Hollister's parent company) has improved their sizing recently and offers extended ranges. Mango delivers brilliant basics with European sizing that's generally more forgiving, whilst COS provides minimalist pieces perfect for that effortless American casual look.

For premium alternatives, Me&Em creates beautifully cut casual pieces that capture that laid-back vibe without the sizing guesswork. Their jersey pieces are particularly gorgeous. Whistles offers slightly elevated basics that work brilliantly for the same aesthetic, and Jigsaw provides excellent quality casual wear with consistent UK sizing.

If you're looking for unique alternatives, Folk creates gorgeous, relaxed pieces with that Scandi-meets-Californian vibe, whilst Kowtow offers sustainable basics with ethical production and sizing that actually makes sense.

My Professional Styling Tips for Hollister Shopping

First, always check their size guide, but don't rely on it entirely – their measurements can vary between styles. I recommend ordering two sizes if you're shopping online, especially for their first-time buyers. Their return policy isn't the most generous, so this strategy saves disappointment.

Pay attention to fabric composition. Their cotton blends tend to shrink slightly after washing, whilst pieces with elastane maintain their size better. Always wash in cool water and air dry – their California-casual aesthetic works best when pieces maintain their shape.

For the best value, focus on their basics: plain tees, hoodies, and classic denim. These pieces offer the best quality-to-price ratio and work brilliantly as wardrobe foundations. Layer them with pieces from H&M for affordable styling options, or elevate them with blazers from Reiss for a more polished look.

The Verdict on Hollister Sizing

Despite the sizing challenges, Hollister produces some genuinely lovely pieces when you get the fit right. Their hoodies are particularly cosy, perfect for those casual weekend days, and their denim has improved significantly in recent years. The key is knowing what you're getting into and shopping accordingly.

My biggest advice? Don't take their sizing personally. It's not you – it's definitely them. Their sizing system is simply different from UK standards, and once you crack your personal Hollister code, you'll find some brilliant wardrobe additions.

Never Guess Your Size Again with Tellar

Tired of the sizing guesswork that comes with brands like Hollister? You need to discover tellar.co.uk – the UK's leading sizing tool that matches your body exactly to over 1500 brands instantly. No more studying size guides or ordering multiple sizes!

Here's how it works:

1. Measure once using your bust, waist, and hip measurements, or simply input your size from a brand that fits you perfectly.

2. Use their Store Size Lookup tool at tellar.co.uk to get your precise size in any brand – whether it's Hollister, COS, Reiss, or hundreds of others.

3. Shop with confidence – it's completely free and works straight in your browser, no downloads needed.

Plus, explore the Tellar Fashion Hub – a library packed with free posts from top stylists. It's honest, unbiased, and independent advice that's always free. Perfect for discovering your personal style and the best brands for your body shape.

Whether you're trying to crack Hollister's sizing code or exploring new brands entirely, Tellar takes the guesswork out of online shopping. For more comprehensive guides, check out:

Remember, great style isn't about fitting into a particular size – it's about finding pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable. Whether that's sizing up in Hollister or discovering your perfect fit elsewhere, the right tools and knowledge make all the difference.