When converting US clothing sizes to South African sizes, it’s essential to understand the equivalence to ensure a proper fit. Here’s a guide for both women’s and men’s clothing:
Women’s Clothing Size Conversion
For women’s clothing, a US size 8 generally converts to a South African size 12 or 14, depending on the brand and cut of the clothing.
| US Size | South African Size |
|---|---|
| 8 | 12 – 14 |
Men’s Clothing Size Conversion
For men’s clothing, the conversion isn’t as straightforward because men’s sizes are often based on chest, waist, and inseam measurements rather than numerical sizes like women’s clothing. However, for pants, shirts, and jackets:
- US Medium (M) typically corresponds to a South African Medium (M), and this is generally around a size 38-40 in South Africa for jackets and shirts.
Women’s Clothing Conversion Example
- US Size 8:
- SA Size 12 or 14:
- Bust: 90-93 cm (35.5-36.5 inches)
- Waist: 72-75 cm (28.5-29.5 inches)
- Hips: 98-101 cm (38.5-39.5 inches)
- SA Size 12 or 14:
Men’s Clothing Conversion Example
For a general idea, if you are looking for a medium size in US men’s clothing:
- US Medium (M):
- SA Medium (M):
- Chest: 97-102 cm (38-40 inches)
- Waist: 81-86 cm (32-34 inches)
- SA Medium (M):
Tips for Accurate Clothing Sizing
- Measure Yourself: Use a measuring tape to measure your bust, waist, hips (for women), and chest, waist, inseam (for men) in centimeters for the most accurate sizing.
- Check Brand-Specific Charts: Different brands might have slight variations in their size charts, so always refer to the brand’s specific sizing guide if available.
- Try Before You Buy: If possible, try on clothes in-store to ensure the best fit, especially for higher-end purchases.
- Read Reviews: Customer reviews often provide insights into whether a particular brand runs small, large, or true to size, which can help you make a more informed decision.
By using these guidelines and conversion information, you can find the right fit when selecting clothing in South Africa based on US sizes.