Jean Size Chart & Converter | Width + Length | How to

This guide helps you find your jeans size, unraveling the complexities tied to both women’s and men’s jeans sizes.

Cracking the code for jeans sizes

Please note: There are no less than three different sizing systems for jeans in the US:

• The most common method of sizing combines waist width (W) and leg length (L), expressed in inches and in that order, e.g., 32×30. W = waist width = waist circumference; L = leg length = length of inner leg/inseam.
• International sizing, also known as Alpha or letter sizing, which usually runs from XS (extra small) to XL (extra large).
• For women only: US standard sizing or misses sizing, is rendered as one single number, such as that perfect size 6.

• Women’s Jeans Sizes
• Kids’ Jeans Sizes

Jeans Size Charts for Men

In this conversion chart, you will find a broad spectrum of jeans sizes for men. The average size worn by most men in the US is a 36×32.

Men’s Jeans Size Length (Inseam)

This chart is about finding your right jeans’ length according to your body height. What length of jeans should a 6-foot tall man wear? The answer is: jeans’ length should be 34” inseam length.

Jean Size Chart for Women

This chart boasts a gamut of jeans sizes for women. Measure your size, then check which jeans size corresponds to your measurements. The average woman wears a jeans size of 34×30.

Women’s Jeans Size Length (Inseam)

What size jeans should I wear for my height? Find out the perfect length for your jeans with this jeans’ length guide by height.

Kids’ Jean Size Chart

What does the abbreviation W/L for jeans mean?

Regarding the W/L size, W stands for waist width (W = width) and L stands for leg length (L = length). Each pants size that is labeled in inches includes these two figures, and in that order. For example, if you wear a jeans size 36/32, the number 36 means that you have a waist width of 36 inches. The number 32 then corresponds to a leg length of 32 inches.

Jeans Cuts and Fits and what they mean for your size

1. Fit:
   • Skinny: Fits extremely close, “painted on”.
   • Slim: Tight but not as narrow as skinny.
   • Regular: Traditional, leaves 2″-3″ slack, also “classic” or “original fit”.
   • Relaxed: Baggiest width, also “loose fit” or “boyfriend jeans”.
2. Cut:
   • Tapered: Gradually tightens from knee to ankle.
   • Straight: Equal knee and leg opening size.
   • Bootcut: Larger leg opening than knee.
   • Capri: Tighter than tapered, three-quarter-length.
   • Flares: Widens into bell shape.

Find women’s jeans cuts here.

How to Measure Jeans Size

Here’s how you can easily measure your own jeans size at home. Either of these two simple and reliable methods will yield your accurate jeans size, that is, waist width and leg length:

1. Measure body: With a level measuring tape, measure your waist for regular pants, or widest part of lower body for low-rise pants. Measure inner leg length from crotch to ankle or desired length. Adjust if you wear heels or want jeans to reach shoes/ankle.
2. Measure jeans: Pick well-fitting jeans, lay flat, and measure waistband in inches, then double it. Measure inner seam from crotch to bottom corner of pant leg. The jeans size is the combination of these two measurements (waist/length).

Cracking the Code of Jean Sizes

• Men’s jeans sizes are typically consistent and use actual measurements in inches for both waist and length, unlike women’s jeans, which can vary significantly due to different fabrics and levels of stretch. Men’s jeans generally do not list hip sizes as their hip and waist sizes are similar. However, men’s jeans are designed with extra room in the crotch area, which might not suit women’s body shapes as well. High-waisted options in men’s jeans are uncommon. The lower crotch design of men’s jeans allows them to be pulled up above the hips for those who need or prefer that fit, although this might not work with skinny jeans that are designed to sit lower on the waist. Jeans labeled “Relaxed” or “Tapered” in men’s styles provide more room around the thighs and hips but lack the hip flare common in women’s jeans. The introduction of stretchy materials in men’s jeans offers more flexibility in fit.
• The variability in women’s jeans fit is often due to the use of various fabric types with different percentages of stretch. Designers do not necessarily account for this “give” in the sizing, making it more challenging to find the right fit. Women trying men’s jeans may need to choose a larger waist size to accommodate for their hip size, potentially requiring adjustments or the use of a belt to ensure a proper fit.
• Understand Denim Stretch: Jeans with 1-3% elastane (stretch) will loosen up about half a size during wear. Choose a snug fit initially. 100% cotton jeans (“rigid” denim) won’t stretch out much, so they should fit comfortably right from the start. If you’re buying 100% cotton jeans, remember they might shrink after washing. Ask sales staff about pre-shrunk options or buy a slightly larger size to compensate.
• Know Your Rise: The rise (distance from the crotch to the top of the waistband) affects fit significantly. Try different rises (high, mid, low) to see what suits your body shape and comfort preference best.
• Ignoring Size Labels: Sizes vary widely between brands. Focus on the fit, not the number. What’s labeled as a size 8 in one brand could be a 12 in another. Also try on different cuts: Skinny, straight, bootcut, and wide-leg jeans all fit differently. Try various styles to understand what flatters your shape and meets your comfort needs.
• Pay Attention to Fabric Weight: Lighter denim (under 12 oz.) tends to be softer and more flexible, while heavier denim (over 12 oz.) offers more structure and durability. Your choice should align with the comfort and look you’re after.
• Try on and do not rush: Sit down, squat, and move around in the jeans. They should be comfortable and not restrict movement. Check for gaping at the waistband or overly tight areas that could cause discomfort or unsightly bulging. Rushing the Process: Finding the perfect pair of jeans takes time. Don’t rush your shopping trip. Try on various styles and sizes to find your best fit.
• Tailoring Is Your Friend: If you find jeans that fit well in the hips and thighs but are too long or loose at the waist, consider getting them tailored for a perfect fit. It’s a relatively inexpensive way to get jeans that feel custom-made.

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