Indian sizing does not map cleanly onto US sizing, and it is not consistent between makers. The reliable way to buy is to measure a garment you already own, then compare with the measurements on the product page. The letter size is a hint; the numbers are the answer.
How to measure yourself
- Bust: around the fullest part, tape level, arms down.
- Waist: around the narrowest part of your natural waist, not where your jeans sit.
- Hip: around the fullest part, usually about 8 inches below the waist.
- Shoulder: across the back, from the tip of one shoulder to the other.
- Kurti length: from the top of the shoulder straight down to where you want the hem.
Keep the tape snug but not tight, and measure over the underwear you would normally wear with the outfit.
Women’s ready-to-wear conversion
A general guide only. Always check the measurements on the product page – they take priority over this table.
| Size | Bust (in) | Waist (in) | Hip (in) | US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 34 | 32-33 | 26-27 | 35-36 | 0-2 |
| S / 36 | 34-35 | 28-29 | 37-38 | 4 |
| M / 38 | 36-37 | 30-31 | 39-40 | 6-8 |
| L / 40 | 38-39 | 32-33 | 41-42 | 10 |
| XL / 42 | 40-41 | 34-35 | 43-44 | 12 |
| XXL / 44 | 42-44 | 36-38 | 45-47 | 14-16 |
| 3XL / 46 | 45-47 | 39-41 | 48-50 | 18 |
Men’s kurta sizing
| Size | Chest (in) | Kurta length (in) | US shirt |
|---|---|---|---|
| S / 38 | 38 | 40 | Small |
| M / 40 | 40 | 41 | Medium |
| L / 42 | 42 | 42 | Large |
| XL / 44 | 44 | 43 | X-Large |
| XXL / 46 | 46 | 44 | XX-Large |
Sarees
A saree is a single unstitched length of fabric, so it does not have a size. What varies is the length – typically 5.5 metres for the drape, with an extra 0.8 metres of blouse fabric where the maker supplies it. The product page states what is included.
The blouse is where sizing matters:
- Unstitched blouse piece. A matching length of fabric. You take it to a tailor to be made to your measurements. Most sarees come this way.
- Ready-stitched blouse. Made up to a stated size. Check the bust measurement on the product page.
- No blouse. Some sarees are sold as the drape alone. We say so in the title.
Note that cutting or stitching a blouse piece makes it non-returnable – check the fabric and colour before you take it to a tailor.
Lehengas and semi-stitched garments
A semi-stitched lehenga or suit is deliberately left with extra fabric so a tailor can finish it to you. The product page gives the maximum size it can be let out to. If you need it ready to wear out of the packet, buy an item described as “stitched” or “ready to wear”.
Between two sizes?
Size up. Indian ethnic wear is easier to take in than to let out, especially anything with embroidery along a seam.
Not sure?
Email support@desiyaaro.com with the product link and your measurements. We will tell you what we think fits – and if we think nothing we stock will, we will say that too.