Sizes in EU, UK and US on underwear

Short answer: Conversion tables are a guide and not exact. Always use the centimetre measurements, especially for bras and briefs where the systems differ most.

Why conversion is awkward

EU, UK and US start from different bases. An EU thirty eight is roughly a UK ten and a US six, but only roughly. On underwear the difference grows, because there is no spare fabric to absorb it.

The bra is the hardest

Band and cup are calculated differently in the three systems, and the cup letters do not track each other linearly. Measure under the bust and over the fullest point in centimetres and use the maker's own chart. See bamboo bras without underwire.

Briefs and underwear

Here the hip measurement in centimetres is the only thing that counts. Letter sizes cover a wide span, and two brands can use the same letter for different measurements. See bamboo briefs for women and bamboo underwear briefs for men.

How to do it in practice

Write your measurements down in centimetres and have them ready when you order. Then the system does not matter. See bamboo underwear for women.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a reliable conversion table

No, only indicative ones. The maker's own size chart is always more precise.

Is UK clothing smaller than EU

Often slightly, but it varies more between brands than between countries.

What about sock sizes

They usually follow shoe sizes in the relevant system and need converting too.