article UK clothing sizes vs Chinese clothing sizes (2026) | 247QuickTools
⚖️ Comparison · Updated for 2026

UK clothing sizes vs Chinese clothing sizes

Side-by-side comparison, when-to-use-each guide, and instant conversion. Reviewed for 2026.

Quick answer: Chinese clothes sizes typically use centimetre measurements (S/M/L in larger numbers: a UK size 12 woman is typically a Chinese 165/88A). Chinese shoe sizes follow EU sizing. Many Chinese-made garments sold in the UK use Chinese size charts — mismatched sizes are among the top reasons for returns from online shopping.
Decision guide — when to use which
Use UK clothing sizes when…

Standard UK clothing labels, Marks & Spencer, ASOS UK.

Use Chinese clothing sizes when…

AliExpress, Shein, Temu, Taobao, any clothing item manufactured in/for the Chinese market.

📊 Side-by-side comparison
Aspect UK clothing sizes Chinese clothing sizes
UK 8 / EU 36 UK 8 Chinese 155/80A
UK 10 / EU 38 UK 10 Chinese 160/84A
UK 12 / EU 40 UK 12 Chinese 165/88A
UK 14 / EU 42 UK 14 Chinese 170/92A
Height code — First number = height in cm (155=155cm)
Chest code — Second number = bust in cm (80A=80cm)

Frequently asked

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What does '165/88A' mean on a Chinese size label?

165 = recommended height in cm, 88 = bust circumference in cm, A = normal fit (not plus or petite). Always check the seller's specific size chart — Chinese brands vary significantly in how they apply these numbers.

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Why do clothes from Chinese sites often run small?

Chinese sizing is often benchmarked against smaller average body measurements than UK/US standards. Plus, Chinese size charts may reflect the garment dimensions, not the body measurements — always check and compare against your own measurements.

Reviewed for 2026. All conversion factors and historical references verified against official sources (ISO standards, government weights & measures legislation, IEC technical specifications). Built by a UK-based qualified primary teacher and FA Level 2 coach as part of 247QuickTools' free utility-tools project. We don't sell SEO links or accept paid placements in this content.

Frequently asked questions

What does '165/88A' mean on a Chinese size label?

165 = recommended height in cm, 88 = bust circumference in cm, A = normal fit (not plus or petite). Always check the seller's specific size chart — Chinese brands vary significantly in how they apply these numbers.

Why do clothes from Chinese sites often run small?

Chinese sizing is often benchmarked against smaller average body measurements than UK/US standards. Plus, Chinese size charts may reflect the garment dimensions, not the body measurements — always check and compare against your own measurements.