Sizing

Sizing when buying garments from China can be hit or miss. Sometimes it feels right. Other times, you order your usual size and receive something that feels far too small. The label alone is not enough when buying from Chinese brands or suppliers.

At Hidden Stitch Supply, all customer-facing sizes are standardised to US sizing, which should be familiar to most Western customers. The actual garment dimensions have also been measured so you can compare the clothing itself rather than relying only on the label.

The best way to choose your size

Take a similar piece of clothing you already own that fits the way you like. Measure it laid flat, then compare those measurements with the product's size chart. This gives you a much better reference than comparing the chart with your body measurements or relying on a size name alone.

Measurements to check

  • Waist: Fasten the waistband and measure straight across the top edge.
  • Hips: Measure straight across the trousers, about 5 cm above the crotch seam.
  • Inseam: Follow the inside-leg seam from the crotch to the hem.
  • Chest: Fasten the garment and measure straight across from underarm to underarm.
  • Shoulder: Measure across the back from one shoulder seam to the other.
  • Sleeve: Measure from the shoulder seam to the end of the cuff. For raglan sleeves, follow the product’s size-guide instructions.
  • Body length: Measure down the centre back from the collar seam to the hem, excluding the collar.

Keep the garment flat without stretching it. If the size chart gives a circumference, double your flat waist, hip or chest measurement. Do not double lengths. Follow any product-specific measuring instructions.

Use the measurements that apply to the garment you are considering. Each product should also include its own fit notes where useful.

The label inside the garment

The size label sewn into your garment may sometimes be different from the size you ordered. This is because the original supplier sizing can differ significantly from familiar Western sizing. Your order uses the standardised US size shown on the Hidden Stitch Supply product page; the sewn-in label may still show the supplier's original size.

Not sure?

If you are unsure, email me before ordering. I would rather help you compare the measurements first than have you gamble on a size that does not work.