Clothing sizes have shifted dramatically since the mid-20th century. Understanding the difference is essential for buying vintage clothing that actually fits.
| EU | US | UK | USSR/RU | Chest cm | Chest in |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 44 | XS/34 | 34 | 44 | 88 | 34.6" |
| 46 | S/36 | 36 | 46 | 92 | 36.2" |
| 48 | S/38 | 38 | 48 | 96 | 37.8" |
| 50 | M/40 | 40 | 50 | 100 | 39.4" |
| 52 | M/42 | 42 | 52 | 104 | 40.9" |
| 54 | L/44 | 44 | 54 | 108 | 42.5" |
| 56 | L/46 | 46 | 56 | 112 | 44.1" |
| 58 | XL/48 | 48 | 58 | 116 | 45.7" |
| 60 | XXL/50 | 50 | 60 | 120 | 47.2" |
| 62 | 3XL/52 | 52 | 62 | 124 | 48.8" |
The History of Vanity Sizing
'Vanity sizing' refers to the practice of increasing garment dimensions while keeping the same size number. Manufacturers began this in the 1980s to make customers feel smaller. By 2000, a US 14 had expanded by roughly 3" at the bust compared to 1958.
Size Comparison by Decade
Women's dress, US size 12 — 1958: bust 35", waist 27". 1970: bust 36", waist 28". 1980: bust 37", waist 29". 1990: bust 38.5", waist 30.5". 2020: bust 41", waist 33". Always measure vintage pieces before purchasing.