The single biggest source of disappointment in vintage shopping is trusting the label. A "size 40" tag tells you almost nothing: sizing systems differ by country, by decade, and by whether the label was aimed at French, Italian or American customers. The good news: there's a reliable way to shop, and it's easier than you think.
Measure a garment you love
Take the piece in your wardrobe that fits best and lay it flat. Measure pit to pit across the chest and double it; measure shoulder seam to hem for length; check the shoulder width and sleeve. Those numbers — not "M" or "12" — are your real size.
Compare like with like
Every listing in our store includes flat-lay measurements taken the same way. If a sweater's pit-to-pit is 54 cm and your favourite sweater measures 52 cm, expect a relaxed but wearable fit. See our full Size Guide for a step-by-step walkthrough.
Account for fabric and era
- Woven garments (blazers, shirts) have little give — match chest measurements closely.
- Knitwear stretches and relaxes with wear; 2–4 cm of ease is comfortable.
- Older European pieces often run small by modern standards, and couture-era sizing runs dramatically small.
When in between
If you're between sizes, think about styling: vintage outerwear looks intentional slightly oversized, while a tailored blazer should sit close. And if you're unsure, just ask — we're happy to measure any garment again before you order.
Put it into practice
Every product page lists real garment measurements — pit to pit, length, sleeve — taken flat and in centimetres. Compare them against a piece you already own and you can't go wrong.
- OSKA pink wool lagenlook sweater — tagged a European size 4, but check the chest measurement before you decide.
- Isabel Marant Étoile crochet midi dress — French 36 sizing explained in the measurements table.
New to vintage? Start with our frequently asked questions or browse the full catalogue — every listing includes exact measurements and honest condition notes.