The world of clothing sizes can be confusing, especially when shopping online from international brands. One of the most common dilemmas faced by shoppers is understanding the difference between US and Australian clothing sizes. While both countries use a similar sizing system, there are some key differences that can affect the fit of your garments.
In this article, we'll delve into the world of US and Australian clothing sizes, exploring the differences and providing a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the sizing landscape.
Understanding US Clothing Sizes
In the United States, clothing sizes are based on a combination of measurements, including chest, waist, and hip circumference. The most common sizing system used in the US is the "alphabetical" system, which ranges from XS (Extra Small) to 3XL (Extra Extra Large).
The US sizing system is not strictly regulated, which means that different brands and manufacturers can have slightly different measurements for the same size. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you understand US clothing sizes:
- XS: 0-2 (Chest: 31-33 inches, Waist: 24-26 inches, Hip: 34-36 inches)
- S: 2-4 (Chest: 33-35 inches, Waist: 26-28 inches, Hip: 36-38 inches)
- M: 6-8 (Chest: 35-37 inches, Waist: 28-30 inches, Hip: 38-40 inches)
- L: 10-12 (Chest: 37-39 inches, Waist: 30-32 inches, Hip: 40-42 inches)
- XL: 14-16 (Chest: 39-41 inches, Waist: 32-34 inches, Hip: 42-44 inches)
- 2XL: 18-20 (Chest: 41-43 inches, Waist: 34-36 inches, Hip: 44-46 inches)
- 3XL: 22-24 (Chest: 43-45 inches, Waist: 36-38 inches, Hip: 46-48 inches)
Understanding Australian Clothing Sizes
In Australia, clothing sizes are based on a similar system to the US, but with some key differences. Australian sizes are often labeled with a combination of letters and numbers, such as 8-10 or 12-14.
The Australian sizing system is also not strictly regulated, which means that different brands and manufacturers can have slightly different measurements for the same size. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you understand Australian clothing sizes:
- 6: XS (Chest: 31-33 inches, Waist: 24-26 inches, Hip: 34-36 inches)
- 8: S (Chest: 33-35 inches, Waist: 26-28 inches, Hip: 36-38 inches)
- 10: M (Chest: 35-37 inches, Waist: 28-30 inches, Hip: 38-40 inches)
- 12: L (Chest: 37-39 inches, Waist: 30-32 inches, Hip: 40-42 inches)
- 14: XL (Chest: 39-41 inches, Waist: 32-34 inches, Hip: 42-44 inches)
- 16: 2XL (Chest: 41-43 inches, Waist: 34-36 inches, Hip: 44-46 inches)
- 18: 3XL (Chest: 43-45 inches, Waist: 36-38 inches, Hip: 46-48 inches)
Differences Between US and Australian Clothing Sizes
While both US and Australian clothing sizes use a similar system, there are some key differences that can affect the fit of your garments. Here are some of the main differences:
- Australian sizes tend to be slightly smaller than US sizes. For example, an Australian size 10 is equivalent to a US size 8.
- Australian sizes often have a more generous cut, which means that the same size can fit differently depending on the brand and style.
- US sizes tend to be more standardized, with a focus on a more fitted silhouette. Australian sizes, on the other hand, can vary more between brands and styles.
Converting US Sizes to Australian Sizes
If you're shopping from a US brand and want to convert your size to an Australian size, here's a rough guide:
- XS (US) = 6-8 (Australian)
- S (US) = 8-10 (Australian)
- M (US) = 10-12 (Australian)
- L (US) = 12-14 (Australian)
- XL (US) = 14-16 (Australian)
- 2XL (US) = 16-18 (Australian)
- 3XL (US) = 18-20 (Australian)
Final Thoughts
Understanding the differences between US and Australian clothing sizes can help you navigate the sizing landscape and ensure a better fit. While there are some key differences between the two systems, it's worth noting that sizing can vary between brands and styles.
When shopping online, it's always a good idea to check the size chart for the specific brand and style you're interested in. This can help you ensure a better fit and avoid any potential sizing issues.
We hope this article has been helpful in understanding the differences between US and Australian clothing sizes. Happy shopping!
What is the main difference between US and Australian clothing sizes?
+The main difference between US and Australian clothing sizes is that Australian sizes tend to be slightly smaller than US sizes. Additionally, Australian sizes often have a more generous cut, which means that the same size can fit differently depending on the brand and style.
How do I convert US sizes to Australian sizes?
+To convert US sizes to Australian sizes, you can use the following rough guide: XS (US) = 6-8 (Australian), S (US) = 8-10 (Australian), M (US) = 10-12 (Australian), L (US) = 12-14 (Australian), XL (US) = 14-16 (Australian), 2XL (US) = 16-18 (Australian), 3XL (US) = 18-20 (Australian).
Why do clothing sizes vary between brands and styles?
+Clothing sizes can vary between brands and styles due to differences in design, fit, and sizing systems. Additionally, some brands may use vanity sizing, which means that they use smaller sizes to make customers feel better about their bodies.