Between two sizes, which do you choose

Short answer: If the fabric has stretch, choose the smaller size. If it has none, choose the larger. When in doubt, the shoulders decide, because they cannot be altered later.

Stretch gives room

Fabric with elastane follows the body and gives a few centimetres when you move. That means the smaller of two sizes often fits well without pulling, and it does not hang loose after a few hours of wear. Check the material on the item before you decide. Then you can safely size down in women's most popular.

Without stretch you need room

Fabric without elastane does not stretch and pulls if the size is too small. You notice it most across the shoulders and back when you reach forward or lift your arms. A little room is better than feeling the fabric all day. Choose the larger size when looking at a bamboo sweatshirt for men.

The shoulders cannot be altered

On a top, shoulder width is the one measurement that cannot be changed later. The sides can be taken in and the sleeves shortened, but the shoulder seam stays where it is. If it sits wrong, the rest hangs wrong too. Always choose by the shoulders when unsure. See the fits in all men's clothing.

Think about how you wear it

If the top is worn on its own, the smaller size often looks cleaner. If you wear it over another shirt, you need room for the layer underneath. The same applies to clothes for relaxing, where most people want a little more freedom of movement than in clothes for work.

Use your own measurements

The letter on the size says little, because it can vary between styles. Measure your chest, waist and shoulder width and compare them with the size guide on the item. That shows which measurement sits near the limit. Often only one of them causes the doubt, which makes the choice easier.

Compare with something that fits

If you already own a top you like, lay it flat and measure it. Measure from armpit to armpit and from shoulder to hem. Compare the numbers with the size guide. It is a safer answer than guessing from the letter, because you know those measurements suit you.

Washing changes little

Many hope a size that is too large will shrink into place. It rarely does. Fabric usually shrinks only slightly, which is not enough for a whole size. Choose the size that fits when the garment is new, and follow the care label so it keeps its shape.

When you are still unsure

If you are still unsure after measuring, go for the larger size. A top with a little room still gets worn, while one that pulls rarely does. This is especially true if you are between two sizes on several measurements, because the smaller one may then pull in several places.

Frequently asked questions

Can you size up and have it taken in

Yes, at the sides. The shoulders cannot be altered, so it only works if the shoulder seam already sits right in the larger size.

What if I am between two sizes in both chest and waist

Choose by the chest and see whether the waist can be worn a little looser. Some room at the stomach rarely looks wrong, while tightness across the chest is felt all day.

Does clothing shrink enough to save a size that is too large

No. Two to four percent is too little to make up a whole size. Choose the size that already fits when the garment is new.