How to get the size right without asking
Short answer: Take a photo of the label at the neck of two garments the person wears often. It shows brand and size, and that is all you need to pick the right size without asking and without giving anything away.
Where the information is
The neck label shows the brand and usually the size. The label in the side seam often lists a model number and the material. Photograph both while you are near the wardrobe, so you can compare later in peace. It takes seconds, and you only touch the two garments you want to use.
Why two garments
Sizes can differ between brands, so one label does not tell the whole story. Two garments show whether the person wears the same letter size across several brands, or whether it varies. Choose pieces worn often, since they usually fit the way the person likes best. See bamboo clothing for men to compare sizes against your photos.
How to take the photo
Lay the garment flat and take a sharp photo of the label in good light. Check afterwards that letters and numbers are readable when you zoom in. Also photograph the whole garment, so you can see the cut and length. Then you have both the details and a visual memory when you are in the shop or in front of the screen.
If the labels are gone
If the label has been cut out or washed unreadable, you can measure a garment laid flat. Note the chest width and length in centimetres. Both numbers can be compared with the shop's table, whatever brand the garment came from. Write them down in your phone, so you have them next time too. See women's long-sleeved bamboo t-shirt and bamboo jogging suit for men.
How to measure chest width
Lay the garment flat without pulling, and measure from armpit to armpit just below the sleeve seam. Double the number if the table lists the full circumference instead of half the width. Read the table's explanation, because this is where most confusion arises, and a wrong assumption can mean a whole size of difference.
How to use the size table
Compare your measurements with the table for the item you are considering. Two centimetres of difference is barely felt, while four is clearly noticeable. If the numbers fall between two sizes, think about whether the person likes loose or close fitting clothes. For loose, choose the larger. For close, choose the smaller. It is a simple rule of thumb, not a guarantee.
When you are unsure
If you are unsure between two sizes, pick the larger and include the receipt. Clothes a little too big can usually still be worn, while clothes too small often stay in the drawer. Check the shop's exchange terms before buying, so you know how long you have to swap if it does not fit.
Save the details for next time
Create a small note in your phone with name, brand, size and measurements. Then you do not start from scratch every time something needs buying. Update the note if the person's shape changes or a new favourite garment appears. A set of measurements you can find yourself is worth more than a shaky memory.
Which gifts need the least precision
Some gifts are easier than others. Sleepwear, homewear and socks have wide size ranges and a loose cut, so they miss less often. Close fitting items such as trousers and underwear need more precision and should only be bought with a reliable measurement. Start with the easy ones if you have not found the label.
Frequently asked questions
What if the two garments show different sizes?
Then choose the larger and include the receipt. Something a little big is easier to wear than something too small, and with a receipt you can check whether an exchange is possible.
Can you ask someone else in the family?
Often that is the easiest route without giving anything away. Ask someone who knows the wardrobe, or ask them to glance at the label when they are near it anyway.
Which gifts need the least precision?
Sleepwear, homewear and socks. They have wide size ranges and looser cuts, so they miss less often than trousers, underwear or anything meant to fit close.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
