Between Two Sizes – Do You Go Up or Down?
Short answer: If you are between two sizes, the choice depends on the type of clothing. In stretchy bamboo underwear and fitted clothing, most people choose the smaller size because the fabric gives. For nightwear, hoodies and loose clothing, the larger size is usually the better pick.
Rules of thumb when you are between two sizes
Bamboo viscose is soft and stretchy and shapes itself to your body. In bamboo underwear for men and bamboo underwear for women you can therefore usually size down without anything feeling tight. For tops and nightwear, where a little extra room is an advantage, size up instead.
Always check the brand's own chart
The boundaries between sizes vary from brand to brand. Look up your measurements in, for example, the JBS of Denmark size guide for men or the Boody size guide for women before you decide. If your measurement is at the top of the range, the larger size is the safe choice.
Think about how you will wear it
Should a t-shirt sit close under a shirt, or loose for everyday wear? Should your leggings give support, or simply be comfortable for relaxing? The purpose decides which of the two sizes is right for you. The same item can easily be right in two different sizes, depending on what it is for.
Which measurement decides?
Not all measurements carry the same weight. For tops it is the chest, for briefs and knickers it is the hips, and for trousers it is often the waist. If you are between sizes on one measurement but clearly in one size on the others, let the key measurement for that item decide.
When your body does not follow the chart
Many people are one size on top and another below. That is completely normal. Fortunately, underwear, tops and trousers are bought separately, so you can choose sizes for top and bottom independently. Use the measurements that fit each item instead of sticking to one size for your whole wardrobe.
Allow for washing and wear
Bamboo viscose can shrink slightly if washed too hot or tumble dried. Wash at 30 degrees and let your clothes air dry, and the size will hold. On the other hand, stretchy clothing can relax a little during the day. If you are between sizes in fitted items, choosing the smaller one is rarely a mistake.
Look for the fit in the product text
Many product descriptions say whether a style is fitted, regular or relaxed. That detail matters when you are on the line. A relaxed style can safely be taken in the smaller size, while a fitted style is often most comfortable in the larger one. Always read the text before you add the item to your basket.
When you chose wrong
Even with good measurements you can miss. Notice whether the clothing tightens, bags or rides up after a few hours of wear. If it tightens, size up next time. If it bags, size down. It helps to note which size you chose in each brand, so you have it ready for your next order.
The complete size guide
This article is about choosing between two sizes, but it all starts with measuring correctly. The complete size guide for bamboo clothing shows how to measure chest, waist and hips and how to use the figures across brands. That way you are better prepared the next time you are unsure.
Frequently asked questions
Should you size up or down when you are between two sizes?
It depends on the type of clothing. In stretchy underwear and fitted clothing most people choose the smaller size, while nightwear, hoodies and loose clothing are usually bought in the larger one.
Does bamboo clothing stretch with wear?
Bamboo viscose is stretchy and shapes itself to your body, so fitted clothing can feel a little more relaxed after a few hours. That is one reason many people choose the smaller size.
What if my measurements point to two different sizes?
Let the measurement that matters most for the item decide. Use the chest for tops, the hips for briefs and knickers and the waist for trousers, and always check the brand's own chart.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
