Shopping for Indian ethnic wear from a different country can get very confusing as the sizing standards are often different. Whether you are from the USA, UK, or Europe, understanding the Indian clothing size chart can help you pick the right outfit that fits you really well.
Unlike most Western brands, Indian clothing sizes are usually based on body measurements rather than on standard international size labels. An Indian ‘medium’ is not necessarily a medium size in another country. Indian sizes usually follow an alphabetical labels, such as S (Small), M (Medium), L (Large), XL (Extra Large), and so on. On the other hand, sizes in the UK, USA, and EU are usually numeric.
When buying Indian ethnic wear abroad, like lehengas, kurtas, salwar kameez, men’s kurtas or Nehru jackets, always check your measurements against the Indian clothing size guide. This allows you to pick the right fit, without any guesswork.
If you’re looking for ethnic dresses, this Indian dress size guide will help you find the right fit, based on your measurements. Also, it will also help you understand how Indian sizes compare to US, UK, and EU sizes.
How to Measure Yourself Properly
Referring to a guide for Indian clothing begins with a few basic measurements.
Both men and women need to check:
- Bust/Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest. Make sure the tape is parallel to the ground.
- Waist circumference: Measure around the natural waistline, with the tape snug and not tightly wrapped around the body.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, standing naturally.
Men might also need to measure their shoulders from one edge of one shoulder to the other side’s edge, across the upper back. And if you’re buying a sherwani or bandhgala, you might need to measure around your neck as well.
Take these measurements and refer to the Indian clothing size guide of the product rather than simply relying on your usual international size.
Choosing Indian Dress Sizes for International Customers
The table below is a general Indian size guide for NRI women as compared to US, UK, EU sizes:
| Indian Size | Bust (in) | Waist (in) | Hip (in) | US | UK | EU |
| XXS | 30 | 24 | 32 | 0 | 4 | 32 |
| XS | 32 | 26 | 34 | 2 | 6 | 34 |
| S | 34 | 28 | 36 | 4 | 8 | 36 |
| M | 36 | 30 | 38 | 6 | 10 | 38 |
| L | 38 | 32 | 40 | 8 | 12 | 40 |
| XL | 40 | 34 | 42 | 10 | 14 | 42 |
| XXL | 42 | 36 | 44 | 12 | 16 | 44 |
On the other hand, general Indian sizes for NRI men as compared to US, UK, EU sizes can look like this:
| Indian Size | Chest (in) | Waist (in) | Hip (in) | Shoulder (in) | US/UK | European |
| XS | 34-36 | 28-30 | 34-36 | 16-17 | 34 | 44 |
| S | 36-38 | 30-32 | 36-38 | 17-18 | 36 | 46 |
| M | 38-40 | 32-34 | 38-40 | 18-19 | 38 | 48 |
| L | 40-42 | 34-36 | 40-42 | 19-20 | 40 | 50 |
| XL | 42-44 | 36-38 | 42-44 | 20-21 | 42 | 52 |
| XXL | 44-46 | 38-40 | 44-46 | 21-22 | 44 | 54 |
Note: This Indian dress size conversion is just a guide and not a stringent rule. Due to differences in styles, brands, fabrics, and garments, sizing can vary. You must refer to the measurements listed on the product page before ordering.
Quick Tips to Find the Right Size
Here are some simple Indian clothing size guide tips that you should consider while picking up an ethnic outfit.
Take Your Measurements First
Use a measuring tape to note the measurements of your chest, waist, hip, and other applicable body parts. As you take these measurements, make sure the tape remains parallel to the ground. And, for an accurate result, hold the tape snug to the body; it should neither be too tight nor too loose.
Compare the same to the size chart provided for the product rather than just using your regular clothing size.
Consider the Outfit Style
Different clothes fit differently. While some outfits look better when they have a fitted look, others can still be appealing if they’re slightly relaxed.
For instance, fitted blouses or Anarkalis may need a more precise size but outfits like capes and kaftans offer some scope of sizing difference. Similarly, for men, a cotton kurta looks nice in slim as well as relaxed fits but a silk sherwani or a bandhgala can get really uncomfortable if it’s a size smaller.
Review the Fabric
The fabric changes the way the outfit drapes and fits. Outfits in cotton and linen fabrics can be chosen in snug or relaxed fits. However, since silk, velvet and brocade are structured, a tighter fit will not allow easy movement and comfort.
See Product Description
Descriptions of products often include useful information about fit, fabric, lining, and embroidery. They can help you decide whether you should stick with your normal size or size up for a bit more comfort.
