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Does the Brand Roman Run Big or Small? What Is Their Sizing Like & What’s Worth Buying?

Author: Stylist and brand team at Tellar

Date: 2025

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Roman—officially known as Roman Originals—is one of the UK’s most popular womenswear brands, offering stylish occasionwear, comfortable everyday pieces, and affordable fashion that flatters all shapes and ages. But when shopping online or in-store, many people still ask: Does Roman run big or small?

📌 Here’s what matters most: Tellar.co.uk matches your real measurements to Roman—and thousands of brands worldwide. You’ll also receive a free measuring tape in the post. With our growing brand database, you’ll never need to guess your size again.


What Makes Roman Unique?

Roman is widely known for:

  • Elegant, age-inclusive occasionwear

  • Comfortable but smart day dresses

  • Easy-care fabrics (jersey, chiffon, stretch crepe)

  • Generous sizing and curve-friendly shapes

  • Great value across sizes UK 10 to 20+

Roman’s collections focus on flattering the figure—but depending on the garment type and fabric, the fit can vary quite a bit.


So, Does Roman Run Big or Small?

In general:

  • Roman runs true to size or slightly generous—especially in jersey, stretch and fit-and-flare styles

  • Structured or woven fabrics (like chiffon or crepe) run true to size or slightly small in the bust or arms

  • Dresses and tops tend to accommodate curves well, but may vary in sleeve fit

🎯 Use Tellar to find your exact Roman size based on your bust, waist, hips, and height—matched to each fabric and cut.


Roman Size Guide: How It Compares to Other UK Brands

Roman uses UK sizing and offers sizes 10–22 (with some styles going up to 26). The brand is widely appreciated for fitting well straight off the hanger, especially in dresses.

Roman Size

Comparable Fit

Tellar Fit Note

UK 10

True to size

Slightly roomy in jersey, fitted in chiffon

UK 12–14

Very consistent

Great for pear and hourglass figures

UK 16–18

Curve-friendly

May feel snug in tailored woven styles

UK 20–22

True fit

Some items cut slightly straighter in bust

🧵 Tellar.co.uk adjusts sizing recommendations based on fabric, sleeve width, torso length and bust shape.


Fabric & Fit Breakdown: What to Expect From Roman

🧶 Stretch Jersey

  • Used in most of Roman’s bestselling dresses and tops

  • Forgiving and flexible

  • Fit tip: True to size or slightly generous—size down if between sizes


🪡 Crepe & Scuba Styles

  • Offer structure without stiffness

  • Found in wedding guest dresses and workwear

  • Fit tip: True to size—check bust and arm fit with Tellar


✨ Chiffon & Lace

  • Used in floaty overlays, occasion pieces, and mother-of-the-bride styles

  • No stretch, often lined

  • Fit tip: Size up if you’re fuller in the bust or arms


🧥 Knitwear & Casual Tops

  • Soft, breathable and relaxed

  • Often generous in cut

  • Fit tip: Size down for a neater fit, especially in cardigans or oversized tunics


Bestselling Roman Pieces & How They Fit

1. Fit & Flare Jersey Midi Dress

Roman’s hero product—available in prints and block colours.

➡️ Fit tip: True to size or slightly roomy at the waist—great for curvier figures


2. Embellished Chiffon Cape Dress

Popular for weddings, evening events, and formal occasions.

➡️ Fit tip: Snug at bust and underarmuse Tellar to check upper body measurements


3. Stretch Pull-On Trousers

Slim leg, high-stretch, no zips or buttons.

➡️ Fit tip: True to size—but size up for more relaxed everyday comfort


4. Printed Tunics & Tops

Often relaxed, with draped hems or layered effect.

➡️ Fit tip: Roomy fitsize down if you’re between sizes or petite


5. Lace Boleros and Jackets

Ideal for layering over dresses for formal occasions.

➡️ Fit tip: True to size but fitted in armsTellar helps you avoid sleeve tightness


Roman vs Similar Brands

Brand

Fit Compared to Roman

M&S (Per Una)

Roman is more generous overall

Phase Eight

Similar bust and waist fit—Phase Eight is more structured

Nobody’s Child

Roman is roomier and longer in length

Coast

Coast is more formal, narrower at waist

Wallis

Wallis fits similarly but shorter in sleeve

📏 Use Tellar here to compare all these brands side-by-side using your saved profile.


Common Fit Complaints (and How Tellar Solves Them)

❌ “The dress was lovely but tight at the bust.”

Tellar takes your bust shape and rib measurement into account—not just chest circumference.


❌ “The top was too long for my frame.”

Tellar checks your height and torso length—especially helpful for petite shoppers.


❌ “The jacket fit my waist but was too tight in the arms.”

Tellar uses upper arm and shoulder width in all structured outerwear recommendations.


Why Use Tellar Before Buying Roman?

Roman offers great value and consistent sizing—but even small fit differences can affect comfort and confidence. Tellar.co.uk helps you shop smarter by:

  • ✅ Matching your shape to Roman and thousands of brands

  • ✅ Sending you a free tape measure to ensure sizing accuracy

  • ✅ Helping you shop confidently for weddings, holidays, or everyday

  • ✅ Comparing Roman sizing to M&S, Phase Eight, Coast, and more

  • ✅ 100% free to use—no guesswork, no upsells

🎯 Create your Tellar profile now


Related Sizing Guides from Tellar


Follow Tellar for High-Street & Occasionwear Fit Guidance

We post weekly guides on occasionwear, holiday fits, high-street comparisons, and curve-friendly picks.


Final Thoughts: Roman Runs True—With the Right Info

Roman makes flattering, stylish clothes accessible for women of all sizes. But as with most high-street occasionwear, sizing depends on fabric, cut, and fit zone (bust, waist, sleeve). If you’re shopping for a special event or everyday style—get it right the first time.

Tellar.co.uk removes the guesswork, instantly matching your body shape to the right Roman size—and to thousands of brands, every time you shop.


“Find your size in thousands of brands. It’s free & easy.”

🎯 Use Tellar Now