Women’s pants, leggings and jeans size guide

Finding the right size in women’s pants, leggings or jeans is crucial for comfort, style and confidence. Great-fitting bottoms not only enhance your shape, they also make sure you have ease of movement and an effortless look. Accurate measurements of your waist, hips and inseam can take the guesswork out of sizing so you find clothes that suit your body perfectly. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of sizing and give you to measure yourself accurately for pants, leggings and jeans.

How to measure yourself for pants, leggings and jeans

Correct measurements ensure a precise fit and a better shopping experience. Follow these simple steps to measure yourself accurately.

Tools you’ll need:

• A flexible measuring tape.

• A full length mirror.

• A notepad to jot down measurements.

Waist measurement

• Find your natural waistline (the narrowest part of your torso).

• Wrap the tape snugly but not tightly around this area.

Inseam measurement

• Wear fitted clothing or underwear for accuracy.

• Measure from the crotch to the ankle along the inner leg.

You can get someone to help for accurate measurements. Or, take a pair of pants that fit you well, lay them flat and measure from the crotch to the hem.

Hip measurement

• Stand with your feet together and wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your hips. This is usually around 8-10 inches below the waist.

• Make sure the tape is level all around.

Thigh measurement 

• Measure around the widest part of your thigh.

Rise measurement

• The rise measurement is from the crotch of the pants to the waistband.

• Lay the pants on a table and measure this distance.

Hacks for accurate measurements

• Wear fitted clothing or underwear while measuring for accuracy.

• Use a soft measuring tape that will wrap smoothly around the waist, hips and thighs.

• Stand naturally with feet slightly apart.

• Keep the measuring tape flat and parallel to the ground.

• Keep the tape firm but not too tight.

• Double check your measurements for consistency.

• Check brand size guides, since sizes can vary.

Women’s pants, leggings and jeans size chart

Understanding different fits

Each style of pants, leggings or jeans has unique benefits. Understanding these options helps you pick the right pair for any event.

Leggings

Leggings are designed to be stretchy and figure-hugging, making them a comfortable pick for all-day wear. They have excellent flexibility, which is perfect for active lifestyles while enhancing your natural shape with their snug fit.

Skinny Pants

Skinnies are designed to hug your body from the waist to the ankle, creating a sleek shape. They’re perfect when you want a body-hugging style that highlights your curves or elongates your legs.

Slim Fit

Need a fitted look without the tightness of skinny bottoms? Slim fit is your answer. With a close fit through the thigh and calf, they’re available in low cut, mid rise and high rise. 

Straight Leg

Straight legs are a classic style that has the same width from the hips to the hem for a simple, classic look. A great pick for elongating your legs and creating a balanced shape, perfect for both dressy and casual wear.

Relaxed Fit

Relaxed fit pants have a spacious cut from the hips to the hem, for enhanced comfort and ease of movement. They’re great for all body types and perfect for when you want a more laid back, unstructured shape.

Flared

Flared bottoms bring a dramatic, retro vibe to your style. Fitted at the waist and thighs, they flare out from the knees to the hem for a 70s vibe.

Bootcut

Bootcut is slightly fitted through the hips and thighs but flares gently from the knee to the hem. Originally designed to fit over boots, bootcut bottoms have become an essential for both casual and dressy-casual looks.

High Waist

High waist styles sit above the natural waistline, giving structure and support while creating a flattering shape. They're excellent for accentuating the waist and giving the look of longer legs.

Low Rise

Low rise styles sit on or below the hips, exposing more of your middle and giving relaxed, laid back vibes. They're perfect for streetwear looks or channeling early 2000s nostalgia.

FAQs

What size is 32 in women's pants?

A size 32 in women’s pants is usually a US size 12.

However, this can vary depending on the style, fit, brand and country. Here’s a general guide:

• US Size: 12

• UK Size: 14

• EU Size: 42

• Waist measurement: Around 32 inches

Please note, sizing may vary depending on the style and fit, so it’s important to check size charts.

What size waist is a US 8?

A US size 8 generally corresponds to a waist measurement of 29-30 inches (73-76 cm). Make sure to measure your waist accurately for the best fit and check size charts.

What is a UK size 8 in US pants?

A UK size 8 usually converts to a US pants size 4 (XS).

UK sizes are generally four points larger than US sizes. Always double check the size chart provided by the brand to account for any discrepancies.

What’s the difference between high rise and mid rise jeans?

The main difference is in where the waistband sits:

High Rise Jeans:

• Waist placement: sits above the natural waistline, usually around or just below the ribcage.

• Fit: has more coverage and elongates the legs.

• Style: more of a vintage or retro look, great for tucking in tops or wearing with crop tops to create a cinched waist look.

Mid Rise Jeans:

• Waist placement: sits just below the natural waistline.

• Fit: has a more causal fit.

• Style: versatile and universally flattering fit for different body shapes.

How do I know my leggings size?

To find your leggings size, measure your waist, hips, and inseam. See the brand’s size chart and find the size closest to your measurements. Leggings should fit snugly but not feel overly tight.

Is a US size 8 in leggings a medium?

Yes, a size 8 in leggings is usually a medium in the US. However, always consult the specific size chart of the brand you’re buying from.

What if I’m between two sizes?

If you’re between sizes, consider the following:

• For a snug fit, size down.

• For a more relaxed fit, size up.

Key points to remember when in between sizes:

• Check your measurements: cross-reference your measurements with the size charts to get the best fit.

• Check the material: stretchy fabrics like spandex can work with smaller sizes, while rigid materials may require you to size up.

• Try on clothes: to get the best fit, try clothes on before buying.