The most common reason a garment gets returned isn't the colour, the fabric or the cut. It's the size. And almost always it's something five minutes and a tape measure could have prevented.
At Twiggy Shop we make our own clothes, in Bulgaria, in sizes from S–M all the way to 13XL. That's exactly why we know how differently the same label number sits from one manufacturer to the next. Here's how to get it right the first time.
1. Forget the size you "wear"
"I'm a 3XL" is a convenient sentence, but it isn't a measurement. The same number can differ by 6–8 cm between two brands — perfectly normal, since every label cuts to its own chart.
The rule: choose by centimetres, not by habit. Your three numbers — bust, waist, hips — are the only thing that doesn't change from brand to brand.
2. The three measurements that decide everything
Measure over thin underwear, standing straight, shoulders relaxed. The tape should sit snug but never dig in — you should be able to slip a finger underneath.
- Bust — around the fullest part, tape level and straight across the back
- Waist — around the narrowest part, usually just above the navel
- Hips — around the fullest part, roughly 20 cm below the waist
Tip: save your measurements in your phone's notes. You'll use them on every order from now on.
3. Check the chart on that specific product
Every item at Twiggy Shop has its own size chart — not one generic chart for the whole site. Open it and find the row your numbers fall into.
If you're between two sizes:
- for fitted cuts (bodycon dresses, pencil skirts, bodysuits) → take the larger one
- for relaxed cuts (tunics, shirts, blazers) → the smaller one is usually enough
- if your bust and hips fall in different sizes → go by the larger measurement and treat the waist as something a belt can fix
4. Fabric changes everything
| Fabric | Behaviour | What to choose |
|---|---|---|
| Jersey, viscose with elastane | Stretches, follows the body | Your exact size |
| Cotton without elastane | Unforgiving, may shrink | One size up |
| Chiffon, satin | Falls loose, doesn't cling | Your exact size |
| Dense knit | Stable, holds its shape | Exact size, or up for a fuller bust |
We list the composition in every product description — read it before you hit "Order".
5. The most reliable trick: measure a garment you already love
Take the piece from your wardrobe that fits you perfectly. Lay it flat and measure:
- chest width (seam to seam, multiplied by 2)
- waist width
- length from shoulder to hem
Compare those numbers with the product's measurements. This is the most accurate method there is, because you're comparing a garment to a garment — not a body to a chart.
6. Check the length, not just the circumferences
A woman at 158 cm and one at 175 cm wear the same dress in completely different ways. If a style is described as midi but you're taller, expect it above the knee. Garment length is listed on every item — compare it against something in your wardrobe whose length already works for you.
Quick checklist before you order
- I measured today — I'm not going from memory
- I opened the size chart for this specific style
- I checked the fabric composition
- I compared the length to something I already own
- If I'm between sizes, I know which cut it is
- I noted the item code
Need a hand?
If you're between two sizes or unsure how a particular style will sit — send us the item code (e.g. SV7074) and your three measurements. We'll tell you exactly which size we'd recommend for that cut.
Because the right size isn't a matter of luck. It's a matter of five minutes.