Dress sizes are based on bust, waist and hip measurements, but brands cut differently and vanity sizing has shifted sizes over time. When your measurements fall in different sizes, choose the larger one and have the dress taken in where needed – or use the size that fits the part of the garment that matters most (bust for fitted tops, hips for fitted skirts).
How to use the Dress Size Calculator
- Bust
- Waist
- Hips
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Measure around the fullest part of the bust, the natural waist and the fullest part of the hips.
US misses size chart (inches)
| US | Bust | Waist | Hips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 00 | 31.5 | 23.5 | 33.5 |
| 0 | 32.5 | 24.5 | 34.5 |
| 2 | 33.5 | 25.5 | 35.5 |
| 4 | 34.5 | 26.5 | 36.5 |
| 6 | 35.5 | 27.5 | 37.5 |
| 8 | 36.5 | 28.5 | 38.5 |
| 10 | 37.5 | 29.5 | 39.5 |
| 12 | 39 | 31 | 41 |
| 14 | 40.5 | 32.5 | 42.5 |
| 16 | 42 | 34 | 44 |
| 18 | 44 | 36 | 46 |
| 20 | 46 | 38 | 48 |
| 22 | 48 | 40 | 50 |
Tips
- Measure over thin clothing with a soft tape held snug but not tight, and keep the tape level all the way round.
- Take each measurement twice; if you are between sizes, the larger size is usually the safer choice.
- Size charts vary by brand and country – check the maker’s own chart when it is available.
- For sewing projects, pre-wash fabric before cutting and buy 10% extra for shrinkage, pattern matching and mistakes.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mixing inches and centimetres between the tape and the size chart.
- Forgetting seam and hem allowances when cutting fabric.
- Measuring an old, stretched garment instead of your body.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Bust | Units: in, cm |
| Waist | Units: in, cm |
| Hips | Units: in, cm |
What each result means
- US size = min([Size index], 12)
- UK size = min([Size index], 12)
- EU size (DE/FR −2) = min([Size index], 12)
- Letter size = min([Size index], 12)
Formula
Each measurement is matched to a standard size chart; the recommended size is the largest of the three so the dress fits everywhereWorked example
Inputs — Bust: 36 in; Waist: 29 in; Hips: 39 in.
Results — US size = 8; UK size = 12; EU size (DE/FR −2) = 38; Letter size = M; Chart note = Within the standard chart.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a 36-29-39 figure?
About a US 8 / UK 12 / EU 38.
How do UK and US dress sizes compare?
UK sizes are usually 4 higher than US: US 8 = UK 12.
Why do sizes differ between brands?
There is no binding standard; each brand uses its own fit model. Always check the brand's chart.
What formula does the Dress Size Calculator use?
Each measurement is matched to a standard size chart; the recommended size is the largest of the three so the dress fits everywhere.
Sources
- ASTM D5585 – Standard tables of body measurements for adult female misses figure type