UK vs USA vs European Clothing Sizes: The Ultimate Guide

When it comes to buying clothes internationally, nothing trips people up faster than the numbers on a clothing label. A UK 10 is not the same as a US 10. And EU sizes? That’s another minefield altogether. If you’ve ever been confused by what size to order from a US or European brand—this guide is for you.

Whether you're shopping on holiday, importing styles online, or just trying to understand how Zara, Mango, COS, and Massimo Dutti size their clothing, we’ll break down how international sizing works—and more importantly, how Tellar.co.uk makes it all completely effortless.

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Why Clothing Sizes Vary Internationally

Different countries have historically developed their own sizing systems based on average body measurements—meaning the same labelled size can be wildly different depending on where you’re buying from.

• UK sizes tend to reflect body dimensions in inches (e.g. a size 12 = ~36" bust).

• US sizes often start 2 sizes up from the UK (a US 6 = UK 10).

• EU sizes are based on the metric system, and often run smaller and slimmer overall.

Add brand-specific fit preferences, vanity sizing, and lack of global standardisation—and it’s no wonder that 30%+ of online returns are due to incorrect fit.

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UK vs USA vs EU Size Conversion Chart

Here’s a basic side-by-side conversion chart for women’s sizes:

🡒 Remember: This is only a rough guide. Every brand interprets these sizes differently. That’s why Tellar.co.uk uses your actual body measurements to give you exact fit matches—not just guesses based on conversions.

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Brand Examples: How Sizes Compare

Zara (Spain/EU)

• Sizes follow European standards.

• A UK 10 typically corresponds to Zara EU 38, but fits smaller than expected.

• Known for slim fits and high-street tailoring.

🡒 A UK 10 shopper may find Zara tops feel more like an 8—especially in structured blouses and dresses.

Mango (Spain/EU)

• Also uses EU sizes (34–44).

• Slightly more generous than Zara in bottoms and relaxed pieces.

• Dresses and jackets may still run small in the bust.

Abercrombie (USA)

• Sizes use the US system.

• A Medium may be labelled as US 8–10, which would usually be a UK 12.

• Fit tends to be body-conscious, so some UK shoppers may prefer to size up.

White Stuff (UK)

• Uses traditional UK sizing (6–18).

• Generally considered to run true to size, though slightly relaxed.

• Ideal for casualwear and layering.

Massimo Dutti (Spain/EU)

• Sophisticated cuts with tailored European sizing.

• Often runs smaller in the shoulders and hips, especially jackets and trousers.

• EU 38 = UK 10 in name, but often fits closer to a UK 8.

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Why International Sizing Charts Are Inconsistent

Here’s what affects how sizes translate across countries and brands:

• Body shape assumptions: US sizing may allow more room in the hips, EU sizing assumes a narrower frame.

• Height differences: Scandinavian and Dutch brands assume taller frames.

• Cultural preferences: In Italy or France, a slim silhouette is the default.

• Fabrication: European tailoring often uses woven fabrics with no stretch.

• Label vs actual garment: Even within one brand, a UK 12 blouse may have different dimensions than a UK 12 jeans.

It’s not just about numbers. It’s about proportions.

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How Tellar.co.uk Makes It Simple

Forget Googling “UK to US size chart” or converting EU numbers in your head. Tellar.co.uk does all the legwork for you.

✅ Takes your exact body measurements (chest, waist, hips)

✅ Compares against 1,500+ brand-specific size charts

✅ Instantly shows your best-fitting size—across UK, US and EU sizing

✅ No guesswork, no label confusion

And best of all—it’s 100% free.

🡒 Try it now

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How to Measure Yourself Accurately (And Free Printable Tape)

All you need is three numbers:

• Chest/Bust: Around the fullest part of your chest.

• Waist: Natural waistline, just above your belly button.

• Hips: Around the fullest part of your seat.

Don’t own a tape measure? Download our printable one here—it’s accurate, free, and easy to use.

Need help? Visit our How to Measure Guide.

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Common Mistakes When Comparing International Sizes

1. Assuming size numbers always match

A US 10 is not the same as a UK 10—you’ll likely receive something 1–2 sizes too big.

2. Forgetting about fit

Just because the label says Medium doesn’t mean it’ll fit the same. Sizing labels don’t account for shoulder width, armhole depth, or stretch.

3. Relying solely on conversion charts

They don’t take into account cut, brand fit, or body shape. That’s why Tellar.co.uk always recommends using your measurements, not someone else's chart.

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What About Men’s Sizing?

Men’s clothing sizing is slightly more standardised—but not perfect.

Waist sizes (e.g. jeans labelled 32"/34") are usually consistent across countries, but European cuts tend to run slimmer and higher on the waist.

Again, Tellar.co.uk handles this behind the scenes—so men can also check sizing confidently across brands like COS, Levi’s, or H&M.

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Tellar.co.uk vs Other Sizing Tools

🡒 Create your profile now and save your size forever.

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International Sizing for Online Shoppers

With more people buying cross-border—Zalando, ASOS, Revolve, Net-a-Porter, Nordstrom—accurate sizing matters more than ever. Misjudging your size:

• Increases returns

• Delays refunds

• Wastes time and energy

• Costs retailers millions in reverse logistics

Tellar.co.uk eliminates this. Just enter your measurements once, and shop internationally with confidence.

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Join the Tellar Community

Ready to shop globally without second-guessing your size?

Stay in the loop:

• Instagram: @Tellarsizing

• Pinterest: TellarUK

• Facebook: TellarSizing

• Twitter (X): @Tellar100

Explore our full features at Tellar.co.uk.

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In Summary

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Final CTA

Still not sure what size to buy?

🟩 Try Tellar.co.uk –

Find your size in 1,500+ brands real-time. It’s Free & Easy.

🡒 Get your exact size now

🡒 Download your free tape measure

🡒 Create your free profile