Shopping: Italian and US Size Conversions guide

Shopping, shoe size and clothing size

Highlights

Dive into a hassle-free shopping experience using our Italian and US Size Conversions Guide. Whether exploring the chic boutiques of Milan or the contemporary outlets of Rome, understanding the difference in size standards is your first step to finding that perfect fit.
Stride confidently through the stores with our handy size conversion charts.
A little knowledge goes a long way in ensuring your shopping spree is nothing short of delightful!”.

Italian and US size Conversion

Shopping is a delightful activity, but over the years, I’ve discovered that clothing and shoe sizes are entirely different between Italy and the United States, creating quite a bit of confusion.

For years, I couldn’t help but have to try everything on to figure out if it fit or not. In this article, I aim to shed some light for all those people who, like me, love shopping but dislike trying on clothes in cramped and uncomfortable fitting rooms.

It’s important to note that when it comes to women’s sizes, Italian sizes typically start at 38, while American sizes tend to start at 26, though sometimes American sizes start from 0. 

In the table below, I have tried to reorganize everything in a simpler way for better understanding and easier navigation. Bear in mind that each brand has its own fit which could be looser or tighter. Generally, Italian brands have a snug fit while American brands are more relaxed and roomy.

women size chart

Men size chart

Men’s sizes are generally more straightforward, and the same goes for the fit across different brands.

Men’s sizes in Italy start at 42, whereas in the United States, they begin at 28. In the US, unisex sizes are commonly used; however, be cautious as in Italy, they fit quite differently and are considerably smaller.

Shoes size chart

Talking about shoes, I think I’ve never been as confused as when I moved to the United States. In Italy, we have a single progressive numbering system for men, women, and children. So, we start from size 35 for children and go up to 49 or 50 as the maximum men’s size.

In the US, the system is so different that you need to figure out whether a shoe is for men or women. Well, the good news is that when you shop in Italy, you won’t face this issue. You just need to refer to the size chart and proceed with the respective number.

I hope this guide proves helpful, and that you’re able to make your purchases with ease. Should you have any specific questions, feel free to write to me and I’ll do my best to assist you. Always remember, if you shop at H&M, the sizes are entirely different from both Italian and American standards.

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