Italian clothing is sized on the Italian (IT) system, which is the same numbering as EU sizing. As a rule of thumb, an Italian size runs about two sizes higher than the equivalent US size — an IT 42 is a US 6 — and Italian pieces tend to be cut slightly slimmer than American ones. This guide gives the full conversions for our main categories and shows how to measure yourself so you order the right size the first time.
Quick answer
- IT to US dresses & tops: subtract about 36 (IT 40 = US 4, IT 44 = US 8).
- Does Italian clothing run small? Slightly — the cut is trimmer than US sizing, so if you are between sizes or prefer a relaxed fit, size up one.
- Best insurance: measure your bust, waist and hips and match them to the chart below rather than relying on your usual label size.
- Every ITALICA product page lists the model's height and the size she is wearing; use that as a second reference point.
Italian to US, UK and EU size conversion (women's clothing)
Italian and EU numbering are identical. Use this table for dresses, tops, jackets, and knitwear.
| Italian / EU | US | UK | General |
|---|---|---|---|
| 38 | 2 | 6 | XS |
| 40 | 4 | 8 | S |
| 42 | 6 | 10 | S–M |
| 44 | 8 | 12 | M |
| 46 | 10 | 14 | L |
| 48 | 12 | 16 | L–XL |
| 50 | 14 | 18 | XL |
| 52 | 16 | 20 | XXL |
Conversions are approximate because every atelier cuts a little differently. When a piece has its own size chart on the product page, that chart always takes priority over this general table.
Body measurements by size
Match your measurements to the nearest column. If you fall between two sizes, size up for a relaxed fit or down for a fitted one.
| Size (IT / US) | Bust (cm / in) | Waist (cm / in) | Hips (cm / in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 38 / 2 | 82 / 32 | 63 / 25 | 88 / 35 |
| 40 / 4 | 86 / 34 | 67 / 26 | 92 / 36 |
| 42 / 6 | 90 / 35 | 71 / 28 | 96 / 38 |
| 44 / 8 | 94 / 37 | 75 / 30 | 100 / 39 |
| 46 / 10 | 98 / 39 | 79 / 31 | 104 / 41 |
| 48 / 12 | 102 / 40 | 83 / 33 | 108 / 43 |
| 50 / 14 | 106 / 42 | 87 / 34 | 112 / 44 |
How to measure yourself
You need a soft tape measure and, ideally, a second person. Measure over light clothing and keep the tape level and snug but not tight.
- Bust: around the fullest part of your chest, under the arms and across the shoulder blades.
- Waist: around the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the navel.
- Hips: around the fullest part, roughly 20 cm (8 in) below the waist.
- Inside leg (for trousers): from the crotch seam to the ankle bone.
How ITALICA pieces run by category
Dresses & tops
Cut true to the Italian system, which is slightly trimmer through the bust and waist than US sizing. Fitted or tailored styles are the ones to size up in if you are between sizes; relaxed and A-line shapes are forgiving.
Knitwear
Knit and mohair pieces have natural stretch, so they accommodate a range within each size. For an oversized look, take your usual size; for a closer fit, size down.
Trousers & skirts
Sized on the waist. If your waist and hip measurements point to different sizes, choose by waist for tailored styles and by hip for slim or pencil shapes.
Frequently asked questions
What is my Italian size if I'm a US 8?
A US 8 is an Italian (and EU) 44. As a shortcut, add 36 to your US size to get the Italian number.
Does Italian clothing run small?
Slightly. Italian ready-to-wear is generally cut trimmer than US sizing, so it can feel about half a size to a size smaller than an American label with the same number. If you prefer room or are between sizes, size up one.
Is Italian sizing the same as European sizing?
Yes. Italian clothing sizes use the same numbers as the general EU system, so an IT 42 and an EU 42 are the same size.
What if I'm between two sizes?
Order the larger size for a relaxed, comfortable fit, or the smaller size for a fitted look. Check the model's height and worn size on the product page, and measure your bust, waist and hips against the chart above for the surest match.
Can I get help choosing a size?
Yes. Message us or visit the boutique in Sarasota and we will help you find the right fit — we measure every piece before listing it. Learn more about ITALICA or browse dresses, knitwear, and skirts.
ITALICA Boutique — Italian women's fashion in Sarasota, FL.