Women’s Dress Size Converter

Convert women’s dress sizes between US, UK, EU, AU/NZ and International (XS–XXL). Enter one size and instantly see all equivalents plus approximate body measurements.

Interactive dress size converter

Tip: “Snug” suggests the smaller of two close sizes, “Relaxed” the larger. Always check your bust, waist and hip measurements below.

Converted sizes

Approximate body measurements (cm & inches)

Measurement Centimeters Inches

Women’s dress size conversion chart

Use this chart for a quick overview of common dress size conversions. The interactive converter above is easier for everyday use.

INT US UK EU AU/NZ Bust (cm) Waist (cm) Hips (cm)

Values are approximate and based on typical contemporary size charts. Always refer to the specific brand’s guide when available.

How this women’s dress size converter works

Dress sizes are not truly universal. A US 8 in one brand can feel like a US 6 or 10 in another, and the same number can map to different UK, EU or AU/NZ sizes. This tool uses a standardized reference chart built from common international size guides to give you a realistic starting point.

When you choose your known size and fit preference, the converter:

  • Finds the closest matching row in our internal size table.
  • Shows equivalent sizes in US, UK, EU, AU/NZ and International (XS–XXL).
  • Displays the typical bust, waist and hip ranges for that size in both centimeters and inches.

Typical conversion pattern

For most contemporary brands, numeric dress sizes roughly follow this pattern:

  • US vs UK: UK size ≈ US size + 2 (e.g., US 8 ≈ UK 10).
  • US vs EU: EU size ≈ US size + 30 (e.g., US 8 ≈ EU 38).
  • US vs AU/NZ: AU/NZ size is often similar to UK (e.g., US 8 ≈ AU 10).
  • International letters: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL map to ranges of numeric sizes, not a single number.

Our chart refines these rules using realistic bust, waist and hip measurements so that the conversions are more useful than a simple “+2” or “+30” formula.

How to measure yourself for dresses

Accurate body measurements are more reliable than the number on the label. Use a soft tape measure and stand naturally.

  1. Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape level and comfortably snug.
  2. Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the belly button.
  3. Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, usually 18–23 cm (7–9 in) below the waist.

Compare your numbers with the ranges shown in the converter to decide whether to size up or down.

Fit tips and common pitfalls

1. Fabric and style matter

  • Stretchy knits / jersey: You can often choose the smaller of two sizes if you like a close fit.
  • Woven fabrics with no stretch: Err on the larger size, especially at the bust and hips.
  • Bodycon or tailored dresses: Use your largest measurement (often hips) as the main reference.
  • Oversized or relaxed styles: You may prefer your usual size or even one size down.

2. Between sizes?

If your measurements fall between two rows in the chart:

  • Choose the smaller size for a fitted look in stretchy fabrics.
  • Choose the larger size for comfort, layering or non‑stretch fabrics.
  • Consider tailoring if the garment fits one area well but is loose in another.

3. Petite, tall and plus-size ranges

This converter focuses on standard adult women’s sizes. Petite, tall and plus-size collections adjust more than just the number:

  • Petite: Shorter torso, rise, sleeve and hem lengths.
  • Tall: Longer inseams, bodice and sleeve lengths.
  • Plus-size: Different grading through bust, waist and hips for better proportions.

Use the numeric conversion as a guide, then check the brand’s dedicated petite, tall or plus-size chart for final confirmation.

Limitations and brand differences

No online chart can perfectly predict fit for every brand. Luxury labels, fast fashion, vintage-inspired brands and regional designers all interpret sizes differently. Use this tool as a smart starting point, not an absolute rule.

When shopping online, combine this converter with:

  • The brand’s own size chart for the specific garment.
  • Customer reviews mentioning fit (runs small/large, tight in bust, etc.).
  • Return and exchange policies, especially when trying a new brand.

Women’s dress size converter – FAQ

How accurate are these dress size conversions?

The conversions are based on widely used international size charts and typical bust, waist and hip measurements. They are accurate enough for most everyday shopping, but individual brands can run small or large. Always compare your body measurements with the garment’s own size guide when possible.

Can I use this for evening gowns, bridal or formalwear?

You can use the converter as a starting point, but bridal and formalwear often use more precise sizing and may run smaller than casual dresses. For special occasions, prioritize your bust and waist measurements and follow the designer’s specific chart. Many people size up and have the dress tailored for a perfect fit.

Does this work for vintage or second‑hand clothing?

Vintage sizing can be dramatically different from modern sizing. A vintage “10” may correspond to a much smaller modern size. Use this converter to understand modern equivalents, but rely heavily on actual garment measurements provided by the seller (bust, waist, hips, length).

What if my bust, waist and hips fall into different sizes?

This is very common. For most dresses, prioritize the area that is hardest to alter: bust for fitted bodices, hips for bodycon or pencil styles. You can often tailor the other areas for a better fit. The measurement ranges in the converter help you see where you differ from the “typical” proportions for each size.

Can I switch between centimeters and inches?

Yes. The measurement table always shows both centimeters and inches side by side. If you prefer to measure in inches, simply compare your tape‑measure values to the “Inches” column.