Urban Outfitters Sizing Guide: Does UO Run Big or Small?

Urban Outfitters sizing generally runs true to size, but varies significantly by item type—structured pieces like corset tops and tailored trousers tend to run small, whilst oversized pieces like hoodies and streetwear run large. As someone who's styled countless clients and personally navigated UO's inconsistent sizing over the years, I can tell you that the key to shopping their trendy pieces successfully is understanding these nuances before you buy.

Urban Outfitters has become the go-to destination for Gen Z and millennial fashion lovers seeking that perfectly curated 'too-cool-to-care' aesthetic. From their iconic BDG denim to those coveted Y2K-inspired pieces, UO offers an incredible range of trend-driven clothing. However, with such variety comes sizing inconsistency that can leave even the most experienced shoppers scratching their heads.

The Truth About Urban Outfitters Sizing

After years of styling clients and analysing fit feedback, I can confirm that Urban Outfitters' sizing story isn't straightforward. Unlike brands with consistent manufacturing, UO's diverse range means you'll encounter different fits depending on what you're buying.

Structured pieces like corset tops, fitted dresses, and tailored trousers typically run one size smaller than expected. The seaming and construction create a more fitted silhouette that can feel restrictive if you're used to relaxed fits.

Oversized pieces including their popular hoodies, boyfriend-style shirts, and streetwear basics tend to run larger than the size chart suggests. This is intentional—UO designs these pieces for that coveted oversized, effortless look.

Denim is where things get particularly tricky. Their BDG jeans vary dramatically by style. High-waisted options often run bigger, whilst low-rise styles can feel tighter. The stretch content also affects sizing—high-stretch denim may require sizing down, whilst rigid denim typically fits true to size.

Category-Specific Sizing Advice

Tops and Knitwear

UO tops generally run small, particularly through the bust area. If you're fuller-busted or prefer a relaxed fit, I'd recommend sizing up. Their ribbed knits and fitted tees are notoriously snug, whilst their oversized jumpers and hoodies live up to their loose-fitting promise.

Dresses

Most UO dresses fit relatively true to size but can run short for taller women. Mini dresses often become micro-minis, and midi lengths may hit at an awkward knee-length. Always check the model's height and the dress measurements in the product description.

BDG Denim Deep Dive

The BDG range deserves special attention as it's UO's most popular category. Their classic high-waisted styles tend to run large in the waist but can be tight through the hips. The stretchy fabrications often require sizing down, whilst their rigid denim fits true to size. Pay particular attention to the rise measurements—their low-rise styles can be extremely low, whilst high-rise options sit well above the natural waist.

Alternative High Street Options

If Urban Outfitters sizing isn't working for you, here are my tried-and-tested alternatives that offer similar aesthetics:

Zara offers contemporary, trend-led pieces with more consistent sizing, particularly their TRF line which targets a similar demographic to UO. COS provides minimalist, architectural pieces with excellent quality and reliable fit. Mango excels at affordable trend pieces with European sizing that tends to run smaller than UK standards.

ASOS stocks multiple brands including their own line, offering incredible variety with detailed size guides and customer reviews. H&M provides fast fashion at accessible prices with sizing that's generally consistent across their ranges. Whistles offers premium casual wear with sophisticated cuts and reliable sizing.

Jigsaw specialises in effortless, well-cut pieces that work beautifully for the UO aesthetic but with more mature tailoring.

Premium and Independent Alternatives

For those seeking similar vibes with better quality and fit consistency, consider Ganni, the Danish brand that perfectly captures that cool-girl aesthetic with superior construction and thoughtful sizing. Palmes, a rising independent label, offers beautifully crafted basics with a focus on sustainable production and inclusive sizing.

Why Accurate Sizing Matters More Than Ever

With Urban Outfitters' inconsistent sizing, the traditional approach of guessing your size simply doesn't work. This is where tellar.co.uk becomes invaluable—it's the UK's leading sizing tool that matches your body exactly to over 1500 brands instantly.

How tellar.co.uk Solves the Urban Outfitters Sizing Puzzle

Rather than playing the guessing game with UO's varying fits, Tellar eliminates the uncertainty entirely. Here's how it works:

1. Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or your existing brand size. The process takes just minutes but saves hours of frustration.

2. Use their tellar.co.uk to get started immediately.

The Tellar Fashion Hub Advantage

Beyond sizing, Tellar offers a comprehensive Fashion Hub—a library packed with free posts from top stylists. It's honest, unbiased, independent, and always free, covering everything from style advice to brand recommendations.

Their expert guides include tellar.co.uk, and comprehensive guides to tellar.co.uk that take the guesswork out of shopping.

My Final Urban Outfitters Sizing Tips

Urban Outfitters will always be a treasure trove for unique, on-trend pieces, but success lies in understanding their sizing quirks. Always read customer reviews, check the fabric content, and most importantly, use tellar.co.uk to eliminate the guesswork.

Remember, the best-dressed women aren't necessarily those with the biggest budgets—they're the ones who understand fit. Whether you're investing in UO's latest It-piece or building a capsule wardrobe from their basics, getting the sizing right is everything.

With Tellar's precise matching technology, you'll never look at a size guide again. Instead, you'll shop with confidence, knowing that your chosen size will fit perfectly every time.