How Does Sizing Vary by Store for Skirts

Skirt sizing varies dramatically between stores, with a UK size 12 at one retailer potentially fitting like a size 10 or 14 at another—a phenomenon known as vanity sizing that affects high street and designer brands alike, making it essential to understand each retailer's fit before you buy.

Let me be honest with you: after years of styling women of all shapes and sizes, I've seen the frustration that inconsistent skirt sizing causes. You're not imagining it—that skirt you ordered online really doesn't fit the same as your usual size, and it's not your body that's the problem. It's the industry.

Why Skirt Sizing Differs So Wildly Between Brands

Here's what's really going on behind the scenes. Different brands target different demographics, and they adjust their sizing accordingly. A size 10 at one store might be designed for a 26-inch waist, whilst another interprets it as 28 inches. Add to this the variation in hip measurements, skirt rise, and fabric stretch, and you've got a sizing minefield.

I've noticed that high street brands often run larger (vanity sizing at work), premium brands tend to be more consistent but smaller, and designer labels frequently run one to two sizes smaller than standard UK sizing. The fabric choice matters enormously too—a size 12 in a structured cotton pencil skirt will fit completely differently to a size 12 in a jersey A-line.

The High Street Reality: What to Expect

Zara is notorious for running small, particularly in their skirts. I always recommend sizing up, especially if you're between sizes. Their mini and midi skirts often have less stretch than you'd expect.

H&M offers the most generous high street sizing in my experience. Their Conscious collection skirts tend to run particularly roomy, which is brilliant if you prefer a relaxed fit but can catch you out if you're ordering online.

Mango sits somewhere in the middle—generally true to size but with slimmer cuts on their tailored styles. Their linen skirts are particularly tricky as they're cut close to the body with minimal give.

Cos runs small, especially in their structured pieces. I find their skirts require sizing up if you carry weight around your hips. However, their quality and design make the effort worthwhile.

Reiss maintains fairly consistent sizing across collections, though their pencil skirts are cut for a streamlined silhouette. If you prefer a looser fit around the hips, go up a size.

Whistles has improved their size consistency recently, but their midi skirts still run slightly small. Their pleated styles offer more flexibility thanks to the fabric movement.

Jigsaw offers reliably consistent sizing with a British fit—they're cut for curves without being overly generous. Their leather and suede skirts are particularly true to size.

M&S (Marks & Spencer) has traditionally run large, though they've adjusted their sizing in recent years. Their Per Una range tends to be more generous than their Autograph collection.

Next offers dependable, true-to-size skirts across most styles. Their jersey skirts have excellent stretch, whilst their denim pieces run slightly small.

Premium Brands: Investment Sizing

When you're spending more, you expect consistency—and generally, you get it. Me&Em (a contemporary British brand beloved by stylists) runs true to size with exceptional quality. Their skirts are cut to flatter, with thoughtful design details that accommodate real bodies.

Massimo Dutti delivers European sizing that runs smaller than UK high street. Their workwear skirts are particularly well-cut but require attention to their size charts.

Boden offers quintessentially British sizing that's reliable across seasons. Their A-line and midi skirts work beautifully for pear shapes.

The Luxury Difference

Designer brands operate in their own universe. Italian labels like Prada and Dolce & Gabbana run small—often two sizes smaller than UK sizing. French houses like Chanel and Isabel Marant tend to run one size small but with more forgiving cuts.

Stella McCartney offers more generous European sizing, closer to UK measurements, which makes her pieces more accessible for British body shapes.

The Independent Gems

Rixo, the London-based contemporary label, has gained a cult following for their vintage-inspired skirts. They run true to UK sizing with a slightly relaxed fit that's refreshingly wearable. Their midi tea skirts are particularly flattering across size ranges.

Nobodys Child offers sustainable, trend-led pieces with reliable sizing. I love their approach to inclusive sizing—their skirts are designed to work across different body types, and they're transparent about their measurements.

My Professional Tips for Getting the Right Fit

Always measure your waist and hips before ordering. Keep these measurements on your phone—you'll be surprised how often you'll reference them. Check each brand's size guide rather than assuming your usual size will work. Look at customer reviews for insight into whether items run large, small, or true to size.

Consider the skirt style too. Pencil skirts require precise sizing, whilst A-lines and pleated styles offer more forgiveness. Midi skirts can be particularly tricky as the hip measurement is crucial—too tight and you'll struggle to walk comfortably; too loose and the silhouette is lost.

Your Solution: Meet Tellar

Here's where I introduce you to a complete game-changer: Tellar.co.uk, the UK's leading sizing tool that eliminates all this guesswork.

How Tellar Works:

Measure Once – Input your bust, waist, and hip measurements, or use your existing size from a brand you know fits you perfectly.

Use Their Store Size Lookup Tool – Get your precise size across 1,500+ brands instantly. Whether you're shopping at Cos, Reiss, Everlane, Arket, or anywhere else, Tellar's Store Size Lookup tells you exactly which size to order.

Always Free – No downloads, no subscriptions, no hidden costs. It works directly in your browser whenever you need it.

The Tellar Fashion Hub

Beyond sizing, Tellar offers a comprehensive Fashion Hub—a library stacked with free posts from experienced stylists. Honest. Unbiased. Independent. Always free.

Whether you need style advice, top picks, or brand recommendations, you'll find practical guidance that actually helps. Check out these essential reads:

• The Ultimate Clothing Sizing Guide – Everything you need to know about sizing across all garment types

• Jeans Trends 2026 – Stay ahead with the latest denim styles

• Ultimate Guide to Dresses & Best Buys – Find your perfect dress with confidence

• Ultimate Guide to Jackets & Best Buys – Master jacket sizing across brands

Stop wasting time with returns and sizing frustration. Let Tellar match your body to every brand, so you can shop with confidence—whether you're buying skirts, dresses, jeans, or anything else. Your perfect fit is just one measurement away.

Visit Tellar.co.uk now and never look at a size guide again.