Me&Em Sizing Guide: Does It Run Big? Your Complete Fit Guide

Yes, Me&Em sizing generally runs generous to large, with most customers needing to size down by at least one size, particularly in dresses and looser-fitting pieces. As someone who's styled hundreds of women in premium brands, I can tell you that understanding Me&Em's generous cut philosophy is crucial before you invest in their beautiful pieces. Their deliberate approach to fit means you'll likely need to adjust your usual sizing strategy, but once you crack their code, you'll discover why this British brand has become such a cult favourite amongst stylish women.

The Me&Em Sizing Reality Check

Let me be completely honest with you - Me&Em's sizing can initially feel confusing if you're used to high street brands. The brand deliberately cuts their clothes to be "slightly more generous so nothing clings too tightly," creating what they call "the most flattering silhouette." This isn't vanity sizing per se; it's a conscious design decision.

From my experience styling clients, I've found that their swing dresses are the most generous - often requiring two sizes down from your usual fit. Their tailored pieces and trousers tend to be closer to true-to-size in width, but beware the length! Everything is cut for women 5'8" and above, so factor in alteration costs if you're shorter.

Breaking Down Me&Em's Fit by Category

Dresses: Size Down Strategy

Me&Em's dresses, particularly their signature swing styles, run notoriously large. I always advise clients to order their usual size plus one size down to compare. Their fitted dresses are more true-to-size, but the relaxed styles can literally swamp you. The good news? Their detailed measurements on each product page are remarkably accurate.

Trousers: Length is Everything

Width-wise, Me&Em trousers are fairly true-to-size, but the length will likely require alterations unless you're tall. They're designed with a 32" inside leg as standard. I recommend their "short" length if you're under 5'6", but even then, you might need a hem adjustment.

Knitwear and Tops: The Sweet Spot

This is where Me&Em truly excels. Their knitwear tends to be more consistent - usually true-to-size or slightly generous. Their cotton pieces like shirts and cheesecloth styles often benefit from sizing down for a more tailored look.

My Professional Styling Tips for Me&Em

Always check the specific measurements provided on each item - Me&Em is excellent about listing exact dimensions. Don't rely solely on size labels. If you're between sizes, I recommend going smaller, especially for their relaxed-fit pieces. For structured blazers and coats, stick closer to your usual size but factor in layering space.

Consider your personal style preferences too. If you love an oversized, relaxed aesthetic, their generous sizing works beautifully as intended. If you prefer tailored, fitted looks, definitely size down.

Alternative Brands with Similar Aesthetic

High Street Options

If you love Me&Em's elevated basics but want more size consistency, try COS - their minimalist aesthetic and quality fabrics offer excellent value. Zara has upped their premium line with better-quality basics that echo Me&Em's style. Mango offers sophisticated pieces with more predictable sizing.

& Other Stories provides that Scandi-meets-British aesthetic with consistent fit, while Whistles delivers similar quality with slightly more fitted cuts. Jigsaw offers comparable tailoring expertise, and Reiss provides that polished, professional look with reliable sizing.

Premium Alternatives

For similar quality and aesthetic, consider Toteme - their Swedish minimalism and quality matches Me&Em's ethos. Lemaire offers that relaxed elegance with more consistent European sizing.

Luxury Investment Pieces

If you're ready to invest more, The Row delivers unparalleled quality in relaxed tailoring, while Brunello Cucinelli offers Italian craftsmanship in a similar elegant-casual aesthetic.

Never Guess Your Size Again with Tellar

Here's where shopping becomes infinitely easier. tellar.co.uk is the UK's leading sizing tool that instantly matches your body measurements to over 1500 brands - including Me&Em. No more guessing games or expensive returns!

How Tellar Works

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

Final Thoughts

Me&Em's generous sizing philosophy creates beautifully elegant silhouettes once you understand their system. Don't let the sizing put you off - their quality and design deserve a place in your wardrobe. Just remember: when in doubt, size down, check measurements religiously, and factor in alteration costs for trousers.

Most importantly, use tools like Tellar to take the guesswork out of online shopping. Your wardrobe (and bank balance) will thank you for it.