Why do I buy medium size of clothes when I am a small?

You’ve always worn a small, but suddenly, medium fits better. Did you gain weight? Did brands change their sizing? Or is something else going on?

Clothing sizes vary across brands, countries, and styles. Factors like fabric stretch¹, brand sizing inconsistencies, and vanity sizing² can make a medium fit better than a small, even if your body hasn’t changed.

This issue confuses many shoppers. Let’s explore why this happens and how to find the right fit.

Should I wear S or M?

Choosing between small and medium can be tricky. So, which one is right for you?

You should choose the size that fits best based on fabric, fit preference, and brand sizing. A small may be snug, while a medium provides comfort and movement. Checking size charts³ and trying items on is the best way to decide.

Trying on Style

Factors That Affect Your Size Choice

1. Fabric Type – Stretchy fabrics may allow for a smaller size, while rigid fabrics require a looser fit.
2. Style of Clothing – Tight-fitting styles often feel better in a medium, even if a small technically fits.
3. Brand Differences – One brand’s small might be another brand’s medium.

If you’re between sizes, consider how you want the garment to fit. Loose and comfortable? Go medium. Fitted and snug? Stick with small.

How do I know if I am small or medium?

You see both sizes in your wardrobe, but how do you determine your actual size?

You can determine your size by checking your body measurements against a brand’s size chart. Measurements of the bust, waist, and hips provide a more accurate fit than simply choosing small or medium.

Understanding Sizing Charts

Most brands provide measurements in inches or centimeters. Here’s a typical guide:

• Measure yourself accurately – Use a soft measuring tape and check against brand charts.
• Account for stretch – Stretchy fabrics allow more flexibility in sizing.
• Read customer reviews – Other shoppers often mention if a brand runs big or small.

Your body shape also affects fit. Broad shoulders? You may need a medium even if your waist is small.

Why am I not the same size in shops anymore?

A small used to fit perfectly, but now, every store seems different. What’s going on?

Clothing sizes have become inconsistent due to global manufacturing, changes in fit standards, and vanity sizing. A small in one brand might be a medium elsewhere due to differences in sizing systems.

The Problem with Modern Sizing

1. No Universal Standard – Each brand follows its own size guidelines, leading to confusion.
2. Vanity Sizing – Some brands label larger garments as smaller sizes to appeal to consumers.
3. Regional Differences – A medium in the U.S. may be a large in Europe or a small in Asia.

Shopping across different brands means expecting size variations. Instead of relying on labels, focus on fit.

Why are women's sizes so small?

Ever tried on your usual size and felt like it shrunk? Why do women’s sizes feel smaller than expected?

Women’s sizes feel small due to historical sizing practices, vanity sizing, and inconsistent manufacturing. Some brands shrink their sizing to create an illusion of exclusivity, while others follow outdated measurements.

The History of Small Sizing

1. Vanity Sizing vs. Shrinking Sizes

• Some brands make their sizes run big so customers feel they wear a smaller size.
• Others make their clothing run small to create an "elite" fashion appeal.

2. Different Sizing Methods

• European and Asian brands often use smaller measurements.
• U.S. brands tend to use vanity sizing, but not consistently.

3. Fast Fashion’s Impact

• Cheaper production methods lead to size inconsistencies.
• Some brands cut costs by reducing fabric usage, making clothes tighter.

Women’s clothing sizes have no true consistency, which is why trying before buying—or checking size charts—is always a good idea.

Conclusion

Clothing sizes are confusing, and wearing a medium when you’re usually a small is normal. Differences in brand sizing, fabric, and fit preferences affect how clothes feel. Instead of relying on size labels, checking measurements and trying clothes on ensures a better fit.