Returns & CX Mar 15, 2027 6 min read
Wrong Size Returns: The #1 Revenue Killer in Fashion
Wrong size returns dominate fashion returns (60-70%). Math: 25% return rate × 70% size-related = 17.5% of revenue refunded. On $1M revenue, $175K returned. Sizing is the leak.
The Chart
| Metric | Calculation |
|---|---|
| Average return rate | 25% |
| % of returns from sizing | 65% |
| Revenue lost to sizing returns | 16% of total |
| Plus: shipping cost per return | $15-30 |
| Plus: processing labor | $5-10 |
| Plus: liquidated returned items at 50% | Half of returned revenue |
| Total cost of sizing returns | 30-40% margin hit |
FAQs
Why is wrong-size #1?
Online apparel = no try-on. Customer guesses based on chart + photos. Variance in body shapes + brand fits = wrong size on first attempt for 30%+ of buyers.
Is 30% reduction realistic?
Yes with size chart + AI fit + model info + fit feedback stacked. Single tactic = 5-10% reduction. Stacked = 30%+.
Need this on your store?
Tailor Size Guide ships pre-built size charts for Shopify.