Clothing Sizing & Measurement Guide

When buying second-hand clothing, compare the listed measurements with a similar garment that fits you well. A labelled size is a starting point: fit can vary between brands, styles and individual pre-owned pieces.

How to measure polos, T-shirts, hoodies and jackets

Lay your garment flat on a level surface, smooth it gently and avoid stretching the fabric. Fasten it as you would wear it.

  • Pit to pit (P2P): measure straight across the front from one underarm seam to the other. This is a flat width, not a full chest circumference.
  • Length: a useful comparison is from the highest point of the shoulder beside the collar to the bottom hem. Check how the seller has measured the item if the method is not stated.
  • Sleeve: measure from the shoulder seam to the cuff. Raglan sleeves use a different starting point, so compare the same method.

How to compare jeans and trousers

  • Waist: check whether the listing gives the labelled waist size, a measured circumference or a flat waistband width. They are not interchangeable.
  • Inseam: measure along the inside leg from the crotch seam to the hem.
  • Leg opening: measure straight across the hem with the leg laid flat. This helps compare the shape of the lower leg.
  • Rise: measure from the crotch seam to the top of the front waistband when you need to compare how high the trousers sit.

Check units and the individual listing

Compare like-for-like measurements in the same units. If a listing does not state the unit or measuring method, contact us with the product link before ordering. Do not assume that a number is in inches or centimetres.

Choosing a second-hand Ralph Lauren polo

Compare the labelled size, pit-to-pit width and length. Check the photographs and description for any stated fit. Two polos with the same size label can fit differently, so use the individual measurements when available.

Choosing True Religion jeans

Check the model or fit, labelled waist size, inseam and leg opening separately. A stitching description does not tell you the waist measurement or how a particular pair will fit. See our True Religion buying guide for the details to compare.

Shop Ralph Lauren, True Religion jeans or all clothing.