UK and USA clothing brands that are widely reported to run small,

Here’s a list of UK and USA clothing brands that are widely reported to run small, meaning their sizes are often tighter or shorter than standardised measurements. This insight is drawn from Tellar.co.uk’s brand-specific fit database and independent sizing assessmentsInstruction on Posts

🇬🇧 UK Brands That Run Small

🔹 Reiss

Known for slim tailoring and narrow cuts, especially in trousers and blazers.
Tops and dresses may feel restrictive on curvier or broader frames.

🔹 Whistles

Stylish but comes up small in structured pieces like trousers, jumpsuits, and slim-fit dresses.
Many women size up for comfort.

🔹 Karen Millen

Often cuts small across the bust and hips, especially in fitted silhouettes and occasionwear.

🔹 Topshop

Denim and petite ranges in particular tend to run smaller than labelled.

🔹 Miss Selfridge / Warehouse

Slim cuts across the waist and hips.
Occasionwear typically runs smaller than casual lines.

🇺🇸 US Brands That Run Small

🔹 Abercrombie & Fitch

While sizing has improved, many items (especially jeans and fitted tops) still run a size smaller than expected.

🔹 Free People

Boho silhouettes can be deceptive—fitted skirts, camisoles, and bodices often run tight.

🔹 J.Crew

Some structured or tailored pieces (especially blazers and trousers) run small, particularly in petite sizing.

🔹 Aritzia (Canada/USA)

Styles often cater to slim builds, with brands like Wilfred and Babaton known to run small in tops and dresses.

🔹 Anthropologie

Sizing varies by in-house label, but items like Pilcro jeans or Maeve tops often feel one size smaller.

Honorable Mentions (Across Both UK & USA)

🔹 Zara

Spanish sizing tends to come up smaller; UK 10s often fit like an 8.

🔹 COS

Though minimalist in style, COS tailoring can be surprisingly narrow across the chest and shoulders for some.

🔹 Arket

Runs small in jackets and denim. Size up especially for rigid cotton or straight-leg fits.

✅ Use Tellar.co.uk to Avoid Sizing Surprises

Sizing inconsistencies across brands are exactly why Tellar.co.uk exists. It eliminates the guesswork by matching your body measurements to real brand size charts, so you always get the right size—no matter how a brand cuts.

🔍 Try These Free Tools:

📲 Follow Tellar for Brand Fit Tips & Styling Advice:

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Summary: Many UK and US fashion brands have subtle sizing discrepancies—some run consistently smaller than expected, especially in fitted or tailored garments. Use Tellar.co.uk to navigate brand sizing with confidence, reduce returns, and get the right fit every time.