Dress sizes vary dramatically across countries, and converting between US, UK, and EU sizes is essential when shopping online internationally. A US size 8 dress is not the same as a UK size 8 or EU size 8 — the US and UK both use numbers, but they're offset, while Europe uses a completely different numbering system.
Size Conversion Chart
| US | UK | EU (Italy/France) | Bust (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 4 | 32 | 76-81 |
| 2 | 6 | 34 | 81-86 |
| 4 | 8 | 36 | 86-91 |
| 6 | 10 | 38 | 91-96 |
| 8 | 12 | 40 | 96-101 |
| 10 | 14 | 42 | 101-106 |
| 12 | 16 | 44 | 106-111 |
| 14 | 18 | 46 | 111-116 |
| 16 | 20 | 48 | 116-121 |
The Pattern
US to UK: UK = US + 4 (a US 6 is a UK 10)
US to EU: EU = US + 32 (roughly; a US 8 is roughly EU 40)
UK to EU: EU = UK + 30 (a UK 12 is EU 42)
Worked Example
You wear a US size 10 dress. What are the UK and EU equivalents?
UK = 10 + 4 = 14
EU = 10 + 32 = 42
So a US 10 is a UK 14 and EU 42. When shopping internationally, use these sizes.
Fit Varies by Brand
Size equivalence is only approximate because:
- Brands fit differently (some run large, some small)
- Cut and style affect fit (a wrap dress is forgiving, a sheath dress is not)
- Fabric stretch varies
- Regional brands have different construction standards
Always check the specific brand's size chart and read reviews about fit. A US brand and a European brand both labeled "10" may fit very differently.
Bust and Waist Measurements
The most reliable approach is to measure your bust, waist, and hip, then compare to the brand's measurement chart:
Bust: Measure at fullest point around your chest Waist: Measure at natural waist (narrowest point) Hip: Measure at fullest point around hips
Each country prefers different measurements — the US emphasizes bust, Europe uses all three.
Tips
When buying internationally, add 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) for comfort. Also check return policies — international returns can be expensive. Many online retailers offer free returns within your country, making it low-risk to try sizes.
Use our Dress Size Converter to convert between US, UK, and EU sizes instantly.