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S,M,L to FML: Why Indian brands just can’t get sizing right

Feb 07, 2025 05:19 PM IST

You have one body. So why are you six different sizes when you shop at a mall? Random sizing hurts both buyers and businesses. Is there a way out?

What a time to be alive! A garment can be designed in Spain, sewn in China and sold in a Dubai mall for a shopper to bring back to India. Homegrown designers are selling in chic boutiques in both Mehrauli and Montmartre. And yet, when it comes to understanding your size, something’s not adding up. A UK Size 8 is at least two sizes bigger than a US Size 8 (Or is it smaller?) Size zero is a lie; so is plus-size. And Free Size remains a mystery.

Brands tend to pay more attention to hanger-appeal than actual sizing. (SHUTTERSTOCK)
Brands tend to pay more attention to hanger-appeal than actual sizing. (SHUTTERSTOCK)
Body positivity has made several Indian brands rethink what now passes for a flattering fit. (SHUTTERSTOCK)
Body positivity has made several Indian brands rethink what now passes for a flattering fit. (SHUTTERSTOCK)
Western sizing standards don’t capture the specific fits of Indian bodies. (SHUTTERSTOCK)
Western sizing standards don’t capture the specific fits of Indian bodies. (SHUTTERSTOCK)
Indian men have narrow shoulder frames and broader midsections, something sizing doesn’t account for. (SHUTTERSTOCK)
Indian men have narrow shoulder frames and broader midsections, something sizing doesn’t account for. (SHUTTERSTOCK)
India is set to get a standard shoe sizing guide, called Bha. (SHUTTERSTOCK)
India is set to get a standard shoe sizing guide, called Bha. (SHUTTERSTOCK)
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