Does The Gap Run Big? Your Complete Sizing Guide

The Gap Sizing Reality Check

I've lost count of how many clients have come to me with Gap pieces that swamp them. The brand's sizing philosophy seems rooted in American casual comfort, which translates to roomier fits across the board. This isn't necessarily a bad thing – it just means you need to approach their sizing differently.

Their classic straight-leg jeans, for instance, can run up to two sizes larger than Zara – the Spanish fast-fashion giant known for their precise European sizing that tends to run smaller and more fitted. Meanwhile, Gap's basic tees often feel more like a medium when you've ordered a small, unlike COS – the minimalist Scandinavian brand that offers more architectural, precise fits.

Where Gap Runs Biggest

Casual Basics

Gap's bread and butter – their basic tees, hoodies, and knitwear – are where the sizing discrepancy is most pronounced. I consistently advise clients to size down here. Compare this to M&S – the British high street stalwart that tends to run true to size in their casual wear, or H&M – the Swedish retailer whose basics can actually run quite small.

Denim Chronicles

Gap jeans deserve their own conversation. Their vintage straight and relaxed fits are particularly generous through the waist and hips. I've found their curvy fit range runs more true to size, but still on the roomier side. For comparison, Mango – the Spanish brand with excellent denim – tends to run more fitted, whilst Whistles – the contemporary British brand – offers denim that's typically true to size with a more tailored approach.

The Exceptions to the Rule

Not everything at Gap runs large. Their more structured pieces – blazers, tailored trousers, and dresses from their premium lines – tend to be more accurate. Their Gap Factory items can also vary significantly from mainline sizing.

When shopping Gap, I always recommend starting with their size guide, but be prepared to go down a size. Unlike Reiss – the British contemporary brand known for consistent sizing – or French Connection – which generally runs true to UK sizing standards – Gap requires a more experimental approach.

Brand Comparisons That Matter

High Street Alternatives

If you're frustrated with Gap's sizing inconsistencies, Next – Britain's reliable high street chain – offers more predictable sizing in similar casual basics. Their quality basics run true to size and offer excellent value.

Premium Options

For those willing to invest more, Everlane – the American ethical basics brand – offers similar aesthetic with more consistent sizing. Their organic cotton tees and denim run true to size with detailed measurements provided.

Luxury Alternatives

If you love Gap's casual luxury feel but want precision sizing, consider Brunello Cucinelli – the Italian luxury casual wear brand whose basics are impeccably sized and crafted, though at a significantly higher price point.

My Professional Styling Tips

As a stylist, here's how I approach Gap shopping:

Online Shopping: Always check the product reviews for sizing feedback. Gap customers are generally honest about fit issues.

In-Store Strategy: Try on multiple sizes, especially in different fits within the same category. Their slim fits might run truer to size than their regular fits.

Returns Policy: Take advantage of their generous returns policy to order multiple sizes online.

The Seasonal Sizing Shift

I've noticed Gap's sizing can vary by season and collection. Their summer basics tend to run larger than their winter knitwear, possibly due to different manufacturing partnerships. Always check the specific item's reviews rather than relying on your previous Gap purchases.

Never Guess Your Size Again with tellar.co.uk

This sizing confusion is exactly why I recommend tellar.co.uk – the UK's leading sizing tool that instantly matches your body measurements to over 1500 brands, including Gap's notoriously tricky sizing.

How Tellar Works:

1. Measure once using bust, waist, hip measurements, or your existing brand size
2. Use their tellar.co.uk
3. tellar.co.uk
4. Ultimate Guide to Jackets & Best Buys

The Bottom Line on Gap Sizing

Gap's generous sizing doesn't have to be a shopping nightmare. Armed with the right knowledge – and tools like Tellar's precise sizing calculator – you can navigate their ranges confidently. Remember, sizing inconsistencies aren't personal failings; they're industry-wide challenges that smart shoppers learn to work around.

Whether you're after their classic white tee (size down!) or their premium denim (check reviews first!), understanding Gap's sizing quirks transforms frustrating shopping trips into successful wardrobe investments. And honestly? Once you nail your Gap size, their quality-to-price ratio makes them brilliant basics suppliers.

Happy shopping, and remember – the best-fitting wardrobe is one built on knowledge, not guesswork!