Does size S correspond to a French 36 or 38? The answer depends on the brand, the type of clothing, and even the country of manufacture. This lack of a unique standard makes size S difficult to pinpoint without considering the actual body measurements, international sizing systems, and discrepancies between brands.
Measurement discrepancies between brands for the same size S
The central issue with size S does not lie in the centimeters displayed in a generic guide. It lies in the fact that each brand freely defines its own measurements for the same size label. There is no legal obligation in France or the European Union that compels brands to harmonize their sizing charts.
The voluntary European standard EN 13402 proposes a system based on actual body measurements. Its adoption remains optional and very uneven among brands. Meanwhile, the international standard ISO 8559-2 has been updated (from the 2017 version to the 2025 version), indicating that technical references continue to evolve without the consumer perceiving the concrete effect.
By browsing the available data on size S bust measurements and correspondences on Imazine, we see that the bust measurement associated with an S varies significantly from one brand to another. The phenomenon of vanity sizing amplifies these discrepancies: some brands deliberately inflate the measurements associated with a size to flatter the buyer’s perception.
Women’s size S: measurement correspondence chart
The table below groups the values frequently associated with size S in women’s ready-to-wear sizing charts in France. These data serve as a reference, not a guarantee: trying on or consulting the specific size guide of each brand remains the most reliable method.
| Measurement | Size S (common reference) | Size XS (comparison) | Size M (comparison) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bust measurement | 86 cm | 82 cm | 90 cm |
| Waist measurement | 67 cm | 63 cm | 71 cm |
| Hip measurement | 93 cm | 89 cm | 97 cm |
| Equivalent French size | 36 | 34 | 38 |
| Equivalent US size | S | XXS-XS | M |
The difference between an S and an M is around 4 cm on each key measurement (bust, waist, hips). These increments may seem small, but they change the fit of a tailored garment like jeans or a blouse.
Men’s size S: different references not to be confused
Men’s size S does not share the same measurements as women’s size S. Confusing the two sizing charts is a common mistake when shopping online, especially for unisex clothing.
For men, an S generally corresponds to a bust measurement close to 88 to 92 cm and a waist measurement around 76 to 80 cm. The equivalent French size is most often between 46 and 48. However, the inseam length is not related to the alphabetical size: it depends on the cut of the pants (regular, slim, short) and the stature of the wearer.
The alphabetical size only indicates the build and waist measurement, never the leg length or shoulder width precisely.
Taking measurements: the only reliable method to target the right size
Brand guides converge on one point: direct body measurement with a tape measure remains the safest method. Three measurements are sufficient for most tops and bottoms.
- Bust measurement: measure at the fullest part of the bust, tape measure horizontal, without tightening. This is the determining measurement for tops, shirts, and jackets.
- Waist measurement: measure at the natural waist indentation (above the navel), while breathing normally. This is the main reference for pants and skirts.
- Hip measurement: measure at the widest part of the hips. This measurement affects the comfort of jeans, straight skirts, and fitted dresses.
If in doubt between two sizes (for example, an S and an M), choosing the larger size limits the risk of return. Returns related to sizing issues represent a significant portion of returns in online clothing retail.
International size S correspondences for overseas purchases
Ordering clothing from a British, American, or Asian site adds a layer of complexity. Sizing systems do not overlap from one country to another.
- A French S (size 36) often corresponds to a UK 8 for women and a US 4-6.
- An Italian S generally equals a 40 Italian, which can be misleading if confused with a 40 French (which would be an M).
- Asian sizes are often scaled down: an Asian S may correspond to a European XS, or even less depending on the brand.
The size number alone is never sufficient for an international purchase. Comparing the centimeters indicated in the brand’s guide with your own measurements avoids most errors.
For jeans, the American system uses the notation W (waist measurement in inches) and L (inseam length in inches). A W28 jean corresponds approximately to a waist measurement of 71 cm, which is a French size S. The L30 length is suitable for an inseam of about 76 cm. These two measurements are independent of the S, M, or L letter displayed on other garments from the same brand.
Size S remains a useful reference as long as it is never considered an absolute value. The tape measure and the specific size guide of each brand are the two tools that transform an approximate letter into a successful purchase.