UK Dress Size Measurement Chart
UK dress sizes don't correspond to a single universal standard — they vary between brands and even between garment types. However, the measurements below represent the commonly accepted guidelines used by most UK pattern companies and many high-street retailers. Always take your own measurements and compare to the size chart for the specific pattern or brand you're using.
UK Sizes with Body Measurements
| UK Size | Bust (cm) | Bust (in) | Waist (cm) | Waist (in) | Hip (cm) | Hip (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 78 | 30.5 | 60 | 23.5 | 84 | 33 |
| 8 | 82 | 32 | 64 | 25 | 88 | 34.5 |
| 10 | 86 | 34 | 68 | 27 | 92 | 36 |
| 12 | 90 | 35.5 | 72 | 28.5 | 96 | 38 |
| 14 | 96 | 38 | 78 | 31 | 102 | 40 |
| 16 | 102 | 40 | 84 | 33 | 108 | 42.5 |
| 18 | 108 | 42.5 | 90 | 35.5 | 114 | 45 |
| 20 | 114 | 45 | 96 | 38 | 120 | 47 |
| 22 | 120 | 47 | 102 | 40 | 126 | 49.5 |
UK to US & EU Size Conversion
| UK | US | EU | Australian |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 2 | 34 | 6 |
| 8 | 4 | 36 | 8 |
| 10 | 6 | 38 | 10 |
| 12 | 8 | 40 | 12 |
| 14 | 10 | 42 | 14 |
| 16 | 12 | 44 | 16 |
| 18 | 14 | 46 | 18 |
| 20 | 16 | 48 | 20 |
| 22 | 18 | 50 | 22 |
These conversions are approximate. US sizing in particular varies widely between brands — some US brands use a 6-number offset (UK 12 = US 8), while others use a 4-number offset. Always check the brand's specific size chart.
How to Measure Yourself
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of the bust, keeping the tape level.
- Waist: Measure around the natural waistline — the narrowest point, usually just above the belly button.
- Hip: Measure around the fullest part of the hips, approximately 20 cm below the waist.
- Tip: If your measurements fall between two sizes, choose the larger size and take in for a better fit. It's much easier to take in than let out.
Related Calculators
- Pattern & Sizing Calculators — size grading, ease calculation and pattern adjustment tools
UK dress sizes are not standardised by law — they are voluntary guidelines. Individual brands may size up or down (vanity sizing). Sewing pattern sizes (Vogue, Butterick, Simplicity) typically run smaller than high-street sizes, so always refer to the specific pattern's measurement chart.