Notes on size and fit

Reading the waist ladder

A size letter on a tag is an opinion. The measurement on the tape is the fact. We print a separate waist ladder on every listing so you can check the real span before you choose.

Letters change but inches do not

Every brand draws its lines differently, and even inside our own workshop two patterns might grade out on slightly different spans. That is why we do not keep a single universal chart. Instead, each listing carries its own specific ladder. Across the whole range, our patterns span from 27 inches up to 49 inches. Looking at the exact numbers printed for that style saves you from guessing how that specific cut sits.

Where to put the tape

Almost every style we make has a low rise. The band rests below the hip bones rather than up around the navel. When you measure yourself, drop the tape down to that lower line where the elastic actually sits. Keep the tape flat and level all the way around your hips. Do not pull it tight enough to pinch the skin. The goal is to record the resting circumference of your body right where the garment waistband will grip.

Spanning the five rungs

We grade across 5 sizes, running from S up to 2XL. Most of our styles run through that full range, but a few patterns stop at XL. Checking the top rung on the card shows you immediately how high that cut grades. The gap between each rung gives the pouch room to support without pulling the waistband down. Because each pattern has its own proportions, checking the listing ladder gives you the true span for that piece.

What to do on the boundary

If your measurement falls squarely on the line between two sizes, think about how you prefer the cut to fit. The elastic and the knit will hold either way. Stepping down to the lower rung gives a closer, firmer hold across the seat and pouch. Stepping up to the larger rung gives a lighter grip around the hips with slightly more relaxed ease. Pick the rung that matches how snug you want the band to feel throughout the day.

Take the measurement low where the band sits, match the inches to the listing ladder, and pick the rung that suits your preference.