How European Jean Sizing Works (W26, W28, W30)
W = waist in inches. L = inseam in inches. W30 L32 means 30-inch waist, 32-inch inseam. Used by EU jean brands and adopted globally.
The Chart
| W (Waist Inch) | Cm Equivalent | Body Waist | Common Cuts |
|---|---|---|---|
| W26 | 66cm | 26" | Slim, skinny |
| W28 | 71cm | 28" | All cuts |
| W30 | 76cm | 30" | All cuts |
| W32 | 81cm | 32" | All cuts |
| W34 | 86cm | 34" | All cuts |
| W36 | 91cm | 36" | Regular, relaxed |
| W38 | 97cm | 38" | Relaxed, plus |
| W40 | 102cm | 40" | Plus |
Notes
L sizes (inseam): L30 (short), L32 (regular), L34 (long), L36 (extra long). Stacking jeans (intentionally long) often L36-L38. Cropped jeans skip L sizing entirely — described by raw inseam (L26, L28).
FAQs
Levi's started this?
Yes — Levi's W x L sizing originated in the US in 1873 and went global through European exports. Wrangler, Diesel, G-Star all use the same system. Modern fashion jeans (Mother, AGOLDE) use W or numeric — both common.
Do W sizes match my actual waist?
Mostly yes for traditional brands (Levi's, Wrangler, Carhartt). Vanity-sized fashion jeans may run 1-2 inches larger than the W label. Try-on or measure existing jeans before buying online.
Need this on your store?
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