The Gap Sizing Guide: Does It Run Big? A Stylist's Complete Breakdown

Yes, Gap sizing generally runs larger than standard UK sizing, particularly in their casual wear and denim - something I've discovered after years of styling clients and countless fitting sessions. As someone who's spent over a decade helping women navigate the minefield of high street sizing, I can tell you that Gap's generous cuts have both frustrated and delighted my clients in equal measure.

Understanding Gap's Sizing Philosophy

Gap's American heritage shows in their relaxed, comfortable approach to sizing. Unlike many European brands that favour a closer fit, Gap designs for movement and ease - which translates to roomier garments across most of their range. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it does mean you need to approach their sizing differently.

Category-by-Category Sizing Breakdown

Denim & Jeans: The Biggest Culprits

Gap jeans are notorious for running large, particularly around the waist. I typically advise clients to size down by at least one size, sometimes two in certain cuts. Their vintage-inspired styles and boyfriend jeans run especially generous. However, their "curvy" and "sculpt" lines tend to be more true to size.

Knitwear & Casual Tops

Jumpers, cardigans, and casual tees from Gap almost always run large. Their classic crew necks and hoodies are cut for a relaxed fit that can overwhelm petite frames. If you prefer a more fitted look, definitely size down.

Workwear & Dresses

Interestingly, Gap's more structured pieces like blazers and shift dresses tend to run closer to size, though still with their characteristic easy fit. Their wrap dresses and anything with stretch usually work well true to size.

My Professional Styling Tips for Gap Shopping

After years of styling clients, here's what I've learned works best with Gap:

Try before you buy - Gap's inconsistency between different lines means what fits in one style might not work in another, even in the same size.

Check the fabric content - Their cotton-rich items tend to run larger, while pieces with elastane or modal sit closer to the body.

Consider the cut - "Slim" and "fitted" styles run closer to true size, while "classic" and "relaxed" fits are genuinely oversized.

High Street Alternatives That Nail Consistent Sizing

When Gap's sizing proves too unpredictable, I often steer clients towards these reliable alternatives:

COS - Scandinavian minimalism with consistent, true-to-size fits and excellent quality basics that rival Gap's aesthetic.

Zara - Spanish fast fashion that runs slightly small but consistently so, making it easier to predict your size across their range.

Mango - Another Spanish brand with European sizing that's more fitted than Gap but incredibly consistent across categories.

Whistles - Premium high street with sophisticated cuts that run true to size, perfect for workplace alternatives to Gap's blazers.

M&S - British classic with reliable sizing and excellent denim alternatives that won't leave you guessing.

Jigsaw - Contemporary British brand with consistent fits and similar relaxed aesthetic to Gap but with more predictable sizing.

French Connection - Offers that effortless casual style Gap is known for but with more European-influenced fits.

Premium & Luxury Alternatives

For premium options with Gap's relaxed aesthetic but superior fit consistency, consider Everlane - the American brand that pioneered ethical basics with precise sizing charts, or Filippa K - Swedish minimalism that delivers Gap's ease with Scandinavian precision.

The Bottom Line on Gap Sizing

Gap's generous sizing isn't necessarily a flaw - it's part of their DNA as an American casual brand. The key is understanding this and shopping accordingly. Always check individual garment measurements, consider sizing down, and don't be afraid to try multiple sizes when shopping online.

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