Danish vs. International Sizes – A Conversion Guide
Short answer: Converting sizes is rarely necessary in practice, because Danish and international sizes now mostly use the same letters from XS to 3XL. The confusion arises because those letters cover different centimetre measurements from brand to brand and from country to country.
Same letters, different measurements
Most brands in Europe, Australia and the US now use letter sizes from XS to 3XL. It looks the same on the label, but behind each letter sits a chart of centimetre measurements that each brand sets itself. A medium from one brand can therefore match a large or a small from another.
Why size conversion is not enough
A European medium, an English medium and an Asian medium can describe three different bodies. Conversion tables online only give a rough idea, because they work with averages. The brand, not the country, decides the measurements, so the brand's own chart in centimetres is the reliable place to look before you order.
Measure yourself first
Take a tape measure and measure your chest, waist and hips directly on your body, ideally in underwear and without pulling the tape tight. Write the numbers down so you have them ready next time you shop. Your measurements change more slowly than brand charts, and with them you can check any brand.
Getting it right across brands
Once you have your measurements, look them up with the specific brand. The shop gathers the charts for you, for example the JBS of Denmark size guide for men, the Bamboo Basics size guide for men and the Boody size guide for women. Compare your centimetres with the chart and choose the best fit.
The home country matters less than you think
Boody is Australian, Bamboo Basics is Dutch and JBS is Danish. Even so, the charts translate directly to your measurements, because they all use centimetres. You do not need to think in Australian or Dutch sizes. You simply read which measurements the brand places behind each letter and compare them with your own.
Numeric sizes and letters
Women's sizes are sometimes given as numbers, such as 38 or 40. Here 38 usually matches a small and 40 a medium, but that is only a rule of thumb. The centimetre measurements are the safer choice here too. If a brand lists both numbers and letters, use the chart with centimetres rather than the conversion.
When you fall between two sizes
If your measurements sit right on the line between two sizes, think about how the garment should fit. Underwear and close fitting tops should sit snugly without squeezing, while a t-shirt or hoodie can have some room. Choose the smaller size for close fitting stretch items and the larger one for a looser fit.
Bamboo gives a little
Bamboo viscose with elastane is soft and supple and moulds to the body. That makes the fabric more forgiving than stiffer qualities if you are slightly unsure. At the same time bamboo drapes heavily and sits close, so a size that is too small quickly feels tight. Your measurements should still decide.
Check the chart every time
Brands adjust their fits now and then, and the same size can sit differently from one style to another within the same brand. Make it a habit to check the chart, even when you buy a brand you know. It takes a moment and saves you returns and clothes that never get worn.
Use the complete guide
If you want the whole method in one place, with how to measure and what to look for in different types of clothing, read our size guide for bamboo clothing. It covers underwear, tops and nightwear and makes it easier to choose right the first time, whichever brand you end up with.
Frequently asked questions
Are Danish and international sizes the same?
The letters are largely the same from XS to 3XL, but the centimetre measurements behind them vary from brand to brand. Always check the specific brand's chart before you place your order.
What does size 38 correspond to?
Size 38 usually corresponds to a small and 40 to a medium, but that is only a rule of thumb. Compare your own measurements with the brand's centimetre chart to be sure of your choice.
Can I use a conversion table?
A conversion table gives a rough idea, but it works with averages. The brand's own chart in centimetres is far more reliable, because the brand decides exactly how each of its sizes is cut.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
