How Indian Clothing Sizing Works
Indian apparel uses inches directly for chest/waist plus letter (S/M/L/XL). Traditional garments (saree blouse, kurta, salwar) have specific conventions. Modern brands selling internationally relabel.
The Chart
| Garment | Sizing System | Key Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Saree blouse | Chest in inches | 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44 |
| Kurta (women's) | Chest in inches + length | Chest 32-44, length 38-46" |
| Kurta (men's) | Chest in inches | 36, 38, 40, 42, 44 |
| Salwar / churidar | Waist + hip | Waist 28-44, drawstring flex |
| Lehenga choli | Waist + length | Waist 26-42, length 38-42" |
| Sherwani | Chest | 36-50 inches |
| Modern western (T, jeans) | S/M/L/XL or inch | Like US/UK |
Notes
Saree blouse fits TIGHT — many tailors size to bust − 1 inch for traditional fit. Drawstring waists (salwar, churidar) accommodate ±2 inches. Custom tailoring is normal in India: even off-the-rack purchases often get adjusted by a local tailor at minimal cost.
FAQs
Why use inches in India?
Colonial inch standard persisted in tailoring. Modern Indian brands offer dual labeling (inches + S/M/L). For diaspora customers, brands like FabIndia and Anita Dongre add US/UK letter equivalents.
Should I order true-to-size from Indian brands?
Most Indian brands selling internationally (Anita Dongre, Sabyasachi, Manish Malhotra) cut to US/UK size baseline for export. Local Indian brands run smaller. Always check the inch measurements.
Need this on your store?
Tailor Size Guide ships pre-built size charts for Shopify.