What to do if you are between two sizes

Short answer: If you are between two sizes, the fabric decides. If it has stretch, take the smaller one. If it has no stretch, take the larger one, and if you will wear a layer underneath, take the larger one as well.

The fabric decides

When your measurements fall right between two sizes in the guide, the numbers cannot take you further. The material has to make the call. A fabric with stretch gives and adapts to the body, while a firm fabric keeps the measurements it was sewn to. So check the fabric content in the product text before you choose.

With stretch, take the smaller

A fabric with elastane gives and shapes itself to the body. The smaller of the two sizes can stretch the little bit that is missing and still sit close without feeling tight. The larger size often sits loose and can slide or fold. This matters most for underwear that should lie flat against the skin. See bamboo underwear for women.

Why the smaller one is not too small

A stretched fabric pulls back together when you take it off. That quality is what makes it possible to size down. As long as you only miss the small step between two sizes, the fabric is made to cover the difference. If it pulls or leaves marks on the skin, that is a sign you should have gone up.

Without stretch, take the larger

Without elastane there is no margin. The fabric has the measurements it has, and the body cannot borrow anything extra. A garment that is too small never becomes right, while one that is slightly large can still be worn and sit relaxed. That is why the larger size is the safe choice for firm fabric. See bamboo T-shirts for women.

A layer underneath changes the rule

If the piece will be worn over another layer, take the larger size whatever the fabric. Room for one more layer matters more than a closer fit. A sweater that sits well directly on the skin can feel tight with a top or a shirt underneath. Think about how you will actually wear the piece day to day.

Read the fabric before you choose

The fabric content is listed in the product text. If elastane is mentioned, the fabric has stretch and the smaller size rule applies. If only one material is listed, or the fabric is woven, there is rarely much give. Also check whether the design is meant to sit close or loose, since a loose cut already has room.

Socks do not follow the rule

Socks do not fit the same thinking. Sock sizes cover a span of shoe sizes, and there is rarely a gap to fall into. You simply find the span your shoe size sits in and choose it. So you do not need to think about stretch or layers when it comes to socks. See socks for women.

One rule is enough

That is the whole rule: stretch means the smaller size, firm fabric means the larger, and a layer underneath always means the larger. It is easy to remember when you are torn between two sizes. If you are still unsure, think about how similar clothes usually fit you and use that as a guide.

Frequently asked questions

Which size do you choose when you are between two

The smaller one if the fabric has stretch and the larger one if it does not. The fabric content in the product text decides, so read it first.

What if the piece is worn over another layer

Then take the larger size whatever the fabric. Room for one more layer matters more than a closer fit, especially on tops and sweaters.

Does the same rule work for socks

No. Sock sizes cover a span of shoe sizes, and there is rarely a gap in between, so you just choose by your shoe size.