Does Max Mara Run Big? The Complete Sizing Guide You Need

Max Mara generally runs true to size, but their Italian sizing approach means structured pieces can feel fitted compared to UK high street brands, whilst their Weekend line runs more generously. After years of styling clients in Max Mara—from their iconic camel coats to everyday separates—I've learned that understanding their sizing quirks is absolutely crucial for getting that perfect Italian elegance without the dreaded fitting room disappointment.

There's nothing quite like the feeling of slipping into a perfectly fitted Max Mara coat. But I've seen too many women struggle with their sizing, particularly when transitioning from UK high street brands. The Italian approach to tailoring is fundamentally different—it's about precision rather than generous cuts, and that's exactly what makes Max Mara so special, yet so tricky to get right.

Understanding Max Mara's Sizing Philosophy

Max Mara uses Italian sizing without vanity adjustments. This means what you see is genuinely what you get—a refreshing change from brands that inflate their sizing to flatter egos. Their mainline pieces are cut close to the body with minimal ease, particularly through the shoulders and sleeves. This isn't a flaw; it's intentional design that creates those clean, sophisticated silhouettes the brand is famous for.

I always tell my clients that Max Mara sizing is like good architecture—everything has its place and purpose. There's no room for "just sizing down for a closer fit" like you might with more relaxed brands.

The Coat Conundrum: Max Mara's Signature Pieces

Let's start with what Max Mara does best—coats. The iconic 101801 (also called the Madame or Icon coat) and the Manuela are designed to be lightly oversized, but this doesn't mean you should size down. The fit is tailored through the shoulders with kimono-style sleeves that should hit at bracelet length.

I've fitted countless women in these coats, and here's what I've learned: if you have broader shoulders or prefer layering chunky knits underneath, absolutely size up. The coat should skim your body rather than pull across the back or shoulders. For the camelhair coats specifically, the fabric has very little give, so there's no room for error.

Dresses and Tailored Separates

Max Mara's dresses run true to Italian size but can feel snug across the bust, particularly in their structured crepe and wool pieces. The brand's commitment to clean lines means they don't add extra ease "just in case." If you're between sizes or have a larger bust relative to your waist and hips, I always recommend sizing up.

Their trousers are particularly unforgiving—they're cut with a mid-to-high rise and tailored at the waist with minimal stretch. Don't expect the kind of give you'd get from contemporary brands. Go strictly by your hip measurement, not your usual UK size.

Weekend Max Mara: The More Forgiving Option

This is where Max Mara becomes more accessible. The Weekend line is cut more generously, particularly in knitwear and casual separates. I often advise clients to consider their true size or even size down if they prefer a closer silhouette. The fabrics tend to have more drape and movement, making them ideal for everyday wear.

High Street Alternatives That Nail Italian Sizing

While saving for your Max Mara investment piece, several high street brands offer similar structured tailoring. COS excels at minimalist designs with precise European sizing that mirrors Max Mara's approach. Massimo Dutti offers excellent tailored coats with Italian-inspired cuts. Zara frequently creates Max Mara-inspired pieces, though their sizing runs more generously.

Mango has exceptional outerwear that captures Max Mara's aesthetic at accessible prices, whilst Whistles offers beautifully tailored coats with attention to fit details. Reiss provides sophisticated separates with European sizing sensibilities, and Jigsaw creates timeless pieces with quality fabrics and precise tailoring.

Premium and Designer Alternatives

For those wanting Max Mara quality without the full investment, consider Acne Studios—their minimalist approach and Scandinavian precision offer similar sophistication. Lemaire creates architectural silhouettes with exceptional attention to fit and proportion.

My Professional Fitting Tips

Always try Max Mara pieces with the undergarments and layers you'll actually wear. Their precise tailoring means a change from a thin to thick bra can completely alter the fit. Pay attention to sleeve length—their coats are designed to show your wrists, not hide them.

For online shopping, I cannot stress enough the importance of checking measurements rather than relying on size conversions. Italian size 42 might translate to UK 14, but the actual measurements will tell the true story.

If you're investing in a Max Mara coat, consider the long-term. Their pieces are designed to last decades, so choose a size that will work with your lifestyle and body changes. A slightly roomier fit often ages better than something fitted to perfection.

Never Guess Your Size Again with Tellar

This is exactly why I recommend tellar.co.uk—the UK's leading sizing tool that matches your body exactly to 1500+ brands instantly. You'll never need to look at a size guide again!

How Tellar Works:

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

2. Use their Store Size Lookup tool to get your precise size in any brand—COS, Reiss, Max Mara & more: tellar.co.uk

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

Plus the Tellar Fashion Hub

A library stacked with free posts from our top stylists. Honest. Unbiased. Independent and Always Free. Style Advice, Top picks, Best brands.

Essential Reading:

The Bottom Line

Max Mara doesn't run big—if anything, their commitment to Italian tailoring precision means their pieces can feel more fitted than UK brands. The key is understanding that this isn't a limitation; it's what creates those enviably chic silhouettes that make Max Mara worth the investment.

Remember, Max Mara is about looking effortlessly sophisticated, not overthinking your outfit. Get the sizing right, and you'll understand why their pieces become wardrobe staples that transcend trends and seasons. When you nail the fit, you're not just wearing Max Mara—you're embodying that unmistakable Italian elegance that turns heads for all the right reasons.