Danish and international sizes and how they convert
Short answer: Danish sizes usually follow the European system. British size numbers are typically lower than European ones, and American numbers are typically lower still. Conversion tables are only a guide, so measurements in centimetres are the safest thing to go by.
The European system
Denmark normally uses European numbers, where women's size 38 matches a medium at many brands. Men's sizes are often given as letters or as numbers like 48, 50 and 52. The system is common across Northern Europe, so a Danish size often looks like a German or Swedish one. See bamboo T-shirt for women.
British sizes
British women's sizes are typically two numbers below European ones. UK 12 often matches European 40, and UK 10 often matches European 38. It is easy to get confused, because the numbers look alike but mean different things. If you see UK before the number, remember to add on before comparing with your usual size.
American sizes
American numbers are typically one step below British ones. A US 8 can therefore match a European 38 or 40, depending on the brand. The systems are not fully consistent, so the numbers are only a guide. Some American brands also cut generously, so the same number can come out larger than expected.
Men's shirts are their own system
Men's shirt sizes are often given as collar size in centimetres or inches, which is yet another system. A shirt in size 40 has a 40 centimetre collar and has nothing to do with women's size 40. For T-shirts and underwear, letters from small to extra large are used instead.
Letters across countries
Letter sizes like S, M and L look the same everywhere, but they do not cover the same measurements. A medium from an American brand is often larger than a medium from a European one. The letter is therefore only a rough guide. Always check how many centimetres the letter covers at that brand.
Use centimetres instead
Conversion tables are a guide. Measurements in centimetres are the only thing that compares across countries and brands. Measure your chest, waist and hips, and compare with the chart for the model you are considering. Then it does not matter which system the brand uses. Read more in our guide to briefs and underwear.
Shoes and socks are different
Sock sizes follow shoe sizes and have their own systems. European shoe sizes like 40 to 46 are the most common in Denmark, while British and American numbers are lower. Socks are often sold in ranges, such as 41 to 45, so you choose the range your shoe size falls in. See all bamboo socks for men.
Shopping abroad
When you buy from a foreign brand, look for the brand's own size chart rather than a general conversion table. The brand's chart shows how they cut, and it is more precise than an average. Also check whether it shows body or garment measurements, so you compare the right numbers.
Write your measurements down
Once you have your own measurements in centimetres, you can use them at any brand, whatever the country. Save them on your phone so they are to hand when you shop. It is quicker than remembering several systems, and it leads to fewer returns because you choose by your body rather than a number.
Frequently asked questions
What does UK 12 match?
Typically European 40, but it varies between brands. Always check the brand's own size chart in centimetres before ordering clothes from a British brand.
Can you rely on conversion tables?
They are a guide. Measurements in centimetres are the only thing that compares directly across countries and brands, so use them whenever you are in doubt.
Does Denmark use European sizes?
Yes, usually. Some brands use letters instead of numbers, and then it is also the centimetre measurements in the chart that decide which size you should choose.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
