How to size vintage clothing
Sizing vintage clothing can seem confusing, but it doesn't have to be! Here are some tips on how to size vintage, and information on how we measure our items to determine the best fit.
Tags are useless
Clothing sizes have drastically changed over the years. For example, what was a women's size 16 in the 1950s-60s is now considered a size 8, which can make vintage tags confusing when trying to determine whether or not something will fit you properly. On top of that, sizing also varies between brands.
What we do about it
We inspect, try on, and hand-measure each piece. You'll find the exact measurements and an estimate for the best modern fit in the description section. We also recommend comparing these measurements with those of a similar item you currently have in your closet that fits you well. We'll show you how we take measurements below.
How we measure shirts
There are generally 5 measurements we take on shirts, jackets, or the top section of longer garments: the length, chest, waist, shoulders, and sleeve.
Depending on the cut of the item we will either measure the sleeve from center back, or the shoulder from the seam to the end of the sleeve. We'll always note the difference in the description.
How we measure pants
The rise is one of the most important measurements when determining the fit of pants, as it tells you where the waistband will sit on your body. Some people like to wear their pants at their natural waist, and some a little below, therefore knowing your preferred rise/waist ratios will make shopping for pants much easier. To determine your rise, take the measurement from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband, then measure around your waist at that point. For fun, try measuring your rise to a few inches lower and then around your waist again. See what a big difference just a few inches make?
Size Chart
Our US size estimates are based off the following average body measurements:
Women's Sizes (chest, waist, hips)
XS: 32"-24"-34"
Small: 34"-26"-36"
Medium: 36"-28"-38"
Large: 39"-31"-41"
XL: 42"-34"-44"
1XL: 44"-36"-46"
2XL: 46"-38"-48"
Men's Sizes (chest)
XS: 30-32"
Small: 34-36"
Medium: 38-40"
Large: 42-44"
XL: 46-48"
2XL: 50-52"