Jeans size guide: how to find your jeans size
A perfect pair of jeans is a must-have for every wardrobe. Not only do they look stylish, but they are also very comfortable, and they can make you feel confident. The big question is how do you know which size you need? We will show you how to find the right size and explain how to work out the length of your inside leg and waist. This will help you to find your new perfect pair of jeans in no time at all so that you can feel stylish and confident.
How to find your jeans size: jeans fit guide
Below you will find helpful tips and information on how to find the correct jeans size for men and women:
The waist size abbreviation (W) indicates the circumference of your waist/hips.
Inside leg refers to the length of your legs (L).
Knowing the length of your inside leg and your waist size will help you to find the right size. This is why jeans don’t usually have traditional clothes sizes such as S - XL.
It’s important to remember that waist size and the length of your inside leg are given in inches. However, this is not a problem if you know how to work out your jeans size. Below we will show you how to find out your jeans size.
Step-by-step guide on how to find your jeans size:
Start off by standing barefoot with a slight gap (about 10 cm) between your legs. It’s best to ask someone to help you measure.
Take a tape measure and put it around your waist. It should be placed around the narrowest part of your waist or just above your stomach button.
There is an exception when it comes to women's jeans sizes. If you would like to buy a pair of low waist jeans, you should put the tape measure around your hips.
3. Now it’s time to measure the length of your inside leg. Put the tape measure on the floor and place it along the inside of your leg. Measure from the floor up to the end of your leg around the crotch.
4. Now you will need to convert both measurements from centimetres into inches. To do this, divide your waist size and the length of your inside leg by 2.54. This will give you the width and length in inches.
An example on how to figure out your jeans size
The waist size is 86 cm. Now divide 86 by 2.54 and this equals 33.8, which you can round up to 34. For the inside leg we have 90 cm. Divide this value by 2.54 and this equals 35.4. You can round this value up to 36, but keep in mind that a size 34 might have a better fit.
Your jeans size is W34 & L34/36
However, jeans sizes for men and women may vary slightly depending on the make. In addition, the fit can also vary depending on the different types of jeans such as a straight jeans may have a different fit in comparison to a pair of skinny jeans. Therefore, it is always important to check the size charts or try on the jeans in different sizes to find the right fit.
You can find more detailed information about our jeans in our C&A size guide.
FAQs on jeans sizes for men and women
How long should a pair of jeans be? When is a pair of jeans too tight? What size waist do I need? You will find answers to these and other questions below in our jeans sizes FAQs for men and women.
How to measure your waist
Waist size with the (abbreviation W) indicates the circumference of the point where the waistband on your jeans will be. Measure the circumference of your waist just above your stomach button. For low waist jeans, you should measure the circumference of your hips just above your bottom. Afterwards divide your measurement by 2.54 to get the size in inches.
How long should a pair of jeans be?
This depends on the style of jeans, but also on current fashion trends and your personal preference.
As a general rule your jeans should go down to just below your ankles. Men’s jeans should ideally sit loosely on their shoes. If your jeans are a little too long, you can roll them up to create the perfect length for you.
How do I know if my jeans are too tight?
Below you will find some helpful tips to ensure that your new favourite jeans fit perfectly and are neither too loose nor too tight:
The waistband should sit comfortably around your waist or hips. The jeans should neither be too loose nor restrict your movement.
Your jeans shouldn’t feel too tight or too loose. When you are stood up, they should not crease and they should go down to just below your ankles.
Your pair of jeans should make you feel confident and give you a great look.
Your pair of jeans are too tight if the seams leave marks on your skin, if they dig into your skin and/or if you cannot bend down or sit down properly.
How tight should jeans be at the waist?
You should be able to get two fingers between you and the waistband on your jeans. If you can, this means that you still have enough room in them and they won’t feel too tight when you sit down.
Types of jeans for women
Skinny, straight or bootcut? We'll show you the different types of jeans for women and explain the difference between low waist, mid rise and high waist. This will help you to find the perfect pair of jeans.
Tips and advice on finding the perfect pair of jeans
Which types of jeans suit which body shapes? In this article you can find the answer to this question. We will also explain which types of jeans will make your assets stand out and give you a great look.
Types of jeans for men
What types of jeans are there and which ones would suit you the best? In this article we will show the different types of jeans and we will also explain what you should look out for when buying a new pair of jeans so that you can get the perfect fit.
How to wash jeans
When washing jeans there are a few things you need to keep in mind so that you can get the most out of them. In this article we will show you how to wash and dry your jeans and answer the most important questions about how to look after items of clothing made out of denim.
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The image sources in this text are in chronological order
Cover photo: C&A
1. Image in text: iStock.com/AndreyPopov
All other images in the text: C&A