XL vs 1XL, the most confusing size

XL vs 1XL, the most confusing size

As if clothes shopping isn't hard enough, the sizing as you get to an XL changes and can be frustrating. I get asked this question often, so wanted to share my understanding. But note, everything varies by brand. My best advice is to ignore the size on the label & wear what makes you feel best! 

XL is a "missy" cut, generally covering sizes 14-16. 1XL is a "plus" cut, generally covering the 14-16W. So what gives here? Why 2 sizes that all seem the same? It's going to be the cut.

A XL and a 1XL in the same item and same brand will be cut different, with the plus cut being a curvier fit with more room for boobs, hips & thighs. Occasionally you will also so a 0X, which is smaller than a 1XL, close to a curvy cut Large. 

Most of our items don't have an XL, they just jump to 1XL. In the flowy tops and dresses, the difference between an XL and a 1XL is minimal, so they will generally pick one or the other. I lived in this space between an XL and 1XL for years, and found that I could mostly wear either size; which gave me more options to chose from! 

What to watch for if you are in the sizing area:

- Fit: If the item is fitted, as for chest or hip measurements, then measure something that already fits you to know how they compare. 

- Stretch: If the item has stretch, you may be fine in either size. If the item has no stretch, you may want to go up. 

- Flow: If it is flowy, think about how you want to item to fit on you and size up or down to get that right look. 

- Length: If you are shorter or taller, you may want to take length into account. I generally size up for length.

If you still aren't sure, reach out to one of us and we will be happy to help walk you through a decision. We want you to love your clothes and how they make you feel! 

October 16, 2017 — Melissa Mitchell
Tags: Sizing XL