Is Zara True to Size? I'm a Complete Zara Addict - This is What I've Learnt About the Brand's Sizing - Wear Next. (2024)

If you’ve ever tried anything on at Zara, you’ll know how confusing its sizing can be.

This isn’t really limited to Zara, actually. You might try on an item in a size 10 in H&M, and then find the same size is too small in another shop.

READ MORE: Everything You Need to Know About Shopping Plus Size at Zara

Of course, being able to try out the products in person before purchasing them helps – but what about those of us who choose to shop online?

Is Zara True to Size? I'm a Complete Zara Addict - This is What I've Learnt About the Brand's Sizing - Wear Next. (1)

As a huge Zara fan who lives in Margate, I’ve become a dab hand at working out which size to get without having to order 3 sizes of everything.

Once you know your size, it’s pretty easy to work out which to order but there’s always exceptions. Last winter, I bought a pair of leather pants in the sale I assumed would fit perfectly but lo and behold, they were too tight. Suffice to say, I missed out on a larger size.

To avoid that happening to you, here’s what you need to know.

Wear Next may receive a small commission if you click a link from one ofour articles onto a retail website and make a purchase.

READ MORE: Everything You Need To Know About When and How Often H&M Restock Online and In-Store

Is Zara’s sizing accurate?

It depends! If you’re asking if they give a specific measurement for a certain product size, then yes. But if you’re asking if all of the same size labels on their products actually have the same measurements, then no.

The most accurate way of making sure you’re getting the right size for you is to double check the exact measurements of each item using the brand’s sizing tool.

Under a specific item, you can click on ‘Find Your Size’ and you’ll be shown this tool:

Is Zara True to Size? I'm a Complete Zara Addict - This is What I've Learnt About the Brand's Sizing - Wear Next. (2)

You can enter your height, weight and choose how you want the item to fit.

It will then tell you the percentage of people like who you bought the size they recommended.

Is Zara True to Size? I'm a Complete Zara Addict - This is What I've Learnt About the Brand's Sizing - Wear Next. (3)

You can also answer 4 more questions to get more tailored advice. These include your age, tummy and hip size (based on images) and your bra size if buying a top, dress or jumpsuit. If buying jeans, you’ll be asked what size you usually buy in jeans.

This is a really handy tool, but you may well find it almost recommends two sizes, leaving you back at square one.

I know I’m never a size 8 though, so I’ll opt for the size 10 this time.

Is Zara True to Size? I'm a Complete Zara Addict - This is What I've Learnt About the Brand's Sizing - Wear Next. (4)

READ MORE: What Do Circles, Triangles and Squares on Zara Labels Mean?

Do Zara dresses run small?

Zara is more often than not a brand that tends to run small, so if in doubt, size up.

I’ve personally found it to be pretty true to size for me when it comes to dresses, but as a smaller-busted gal, I’ve not had to contend with big boobs confusing the size I pick.

Try using the tool I mentioned above.

Do Zara dresses shrink?

Zara clothes do tend to shrink after a wash, even at 30C.

The Sun tested this on a variety of high street brands, including Zara. They measured a Zara dress before and after washing and found that even though it had been washed at 30C, it shrank 1.7 inches at the hem.

This is definitely something to be aware of if buying a mini dress!

What do Zara’s labels mean?

In a TikTok that went viral last year, a fan of the brand revealed what the labels on Zara tags mean.

The creator that made the TikTok claimed that the circle means the piece runs large, the square means it’s true to size, and the triangle means the piece runs smaller.

However, a stylist told OK Magazine that these labels actually stand for the different lines under the Zara brand: Zara basic, Zara Woman, and Zara TRF. Circle is for Woman, square is for Basic, and triangle is for TRF.

These are used to help staff work out which each product sits in-store.

READ MORE: 14 Key Trends For Autumn Winter 2022 You Can Actually Wear

Is Zara True to Size? I'm a Complete Zara Addict - This is What I've Learnt About the Brand's Sizing - Wear Next. (5)

How do I know my size in Zara?

Zara’s sizing is known to run smaller than most, so it’s usually recommended to size up to get the best fit. Controversially, I’ve actually found the opposite.

I’m a UK size 10 and I’m bottom-heavy, so I usually buy a size S in tops and M in bottoms. Once you know which size fits best for you, you can usually buy the same size from then on.

For your first shop, I recommend buying the product in two sizes when shopping online so you don’t miss out. In my experience, I’ve bought the wrong size and found the size I need has then sold out by the time I go to re-purchase it.

There is another way to make sure you get the most accurate fit, however. If you’re shopping online, simply click the ‘Size Guide’ label under the sizes of the product you’re checking out and choose a size. It will show you the measurements of the body used as a guide for the garment.

You’ll need to measure your body if you’re following this method, but if you can spare the time, it will save you time and money in the long run.

You may also consider sizing up for a more comfortable fit!

Is Zara True to Size? I'm a Complete Zara Addict - This is What I've Learnt About the Brand's Sizing - Wear Next. (6)

Does Zara have a plus size range?

No, the brand doesn’t have a plus size range but many of its items now go up to XXL (UK 18). Did you know that the brand didn’t use to carry larger sizes? A Spanish teenager petitioned for the brand to be more inclusive in 2016 and she succeeded.

While it may not offer a bigger range of sizes, you can still make it work. The key is in picking pieces with flowing fabrics. The brand’s knitwear and outerwear section is also a good place to look. The menswear section is also rife with options!

Is Zara True to Size? I'm a Complete Zara Addict - This is What I've Learnt About the Brand's Sizing - Wear Next. (2024)

FAQs

Does Zara run small or true to size? ›

Zara's sizing is known to run smaller than most, so it's usually recommended to size up to get the best fit.

What size is a M in Zara? ›

Size 8 or 10 depending on the brand or shop and I usually fit a Zara size M. I'm a size 6-8 (more towards the 8), 5ft 6 and haven't had an issue with the sizing in the sense I find it fairly predictable.

How do you pick a size on Zara? ›

You can find our size guide on the product page. Select the size you want and we will show you what body measurements it is tailored to. To assist you in your size selection, we suggest you use the Find your size option, available on each item's page.

What does the size on Zara label mean? ›

Ever noticed the tiny symbols? According to this clip, a square means the garment is true to size, a triangle means it runs small and a circle means it runs big.

Do Zara clothes shrink a lot? ›

According to one Zara customer, they often do shrink in the wash. In a review of the brand on Zara's official Facebook page, they wrote: 'About 95% of my wardrobe is ZARA, however I feel lately the standards of the fabrics are used have become very poor.

Does Zara have free returns? ›

You can return items free of charge in any of our Zara stores. In-store return is available for online purchases as well as those made in a physical store. You just have to present the items to return and your Zara QR or the receipt. Use our store locator to find your nearest Zara store.

What size is medium M? ›

Size Chart
Medium (M)
Chest:Inches38-40
Centimetres96-102
Waist:Inches30-32
Centimetres76-82

What is the dress size of M? ›

Dress size chart
BustWaistInternational
90-93 cm (35"-36.5")73-77 cm (28"-30")M
94-97 cm (36.5"-38")78-81 cm (30"-32")M
98-102 cm (38"-40")82-85 cm (32"-33.5")L
103-107 cm (40"-42")86-90 cm (33.5"-35.5")L
9 more rows
Mar 10, 2023

Who can wear size M? ›

40-55 lbs. 55-75 lbs. 75-95 lbs. 95-115 lbs.
...
Clothing Size Guide.
XS/SM/L
Waist25" - 28"28" - 31"
Hip35" - 38"39" - 42"
1 more row

Is Zara M size 10? ›

Partly depends on the fit you want. I tend to find S too small and I'm a 10 (28 inch waist). Im a 10 and can be either S or M in Zara, more often M, but I got a dress recently and even the S was too big. As others have said, it can be a bit unpredictable.

How do I return something to Zara? ›

You can return your items for free at any of our Zara stores. HOME items can be returned as well to ZARA HOME stores. The in-store return option is available for both online and in-store purchases. Simply provide the items to be returned and your Zara QR or purchase receipt.

What does the square circle and triangle mean in Zara? ›

The style icon said a circle indicates the item is from the Zara Woman collection. She clarified a square on the tag means a garment is part of the Zara Basics line. Clothing with a triangle is from the TRF range designed for teens and runs small.

Does Zara have larger sizes? ›

Does Zara have a plus size range? Sadly Zara doesn't offer plus size clothing. Their collections are usually available from a size XXS to XXL (and occasionally XXXL), but finding items that aren't between S and L can be difficult. Of course it's easier to find them online, but they sell out pretty quickly.

Does Zara change size? ›

EXCHANGES AT A ZARA STORE

However, for purchases made in a store, you have the option to exchange items for another garment, another size or another colour. Remember: to make an exchange, you must show the purchase receipt or your Zara QR code. Find your nearest store in our store finder.

What is Zara biggest weakness? ›

What are some of Zara's weaknesses? Fast-Fashion: Interestingly, the trend that helped propel Zara to the top is the cause of its most pressing weakness. With the focus on sustainability increasing among customers and policymakers Zara's weakness is balancing sustainability with fast-fashion.

What makes clothes shrink the fastest? ›

Clothes are much more likely to shrink when exposed to hot water or high dryer settings. Washing clothes in cold water goes a long way toward preserving the “off-the-rack” size. Avoiding heavy duty cycles, fast spins and high-heat drying can also prevent shrinkage.

What clothes shrink the most? ›

Some fabrics, like rayon, cotton or linen, shrink more readily than synthetics like nylon or polyester. Generally speaking, natural fibers like cotton, wool or silk shrink more readily than their man-made counterparts. It's not just the material your clothes are made of, but also how they were manufactured.

Does it cost to return to Zara? ›

While e-commerce returns are free at Zara stores, shoppers will be charged a fee for items that are returned at third-party drop-off points.

Does Zara charge for returns? ›

Without fanfare or a major announcement, Zara last week began charging fees for online shoppers returning its clothes. The 1.95 pound cost will be waived if customers return items in its physical stores, but not if returned via a convenient third party drop-off point.

Can I return Zara and get refund? ›

When you return an online purchase, you will receive a refund of your order in the same payment method you used for the purchase. For orders paid for by cash on delivery, the refund will be made by bank transfer. If you wish to be refunded cash, you can request your return directly in one of our stores.

What is M for a size? ›

Answer: M stands for medium and the corresponding number sizes European countries is 40 respectivly 41.

What does M represent in size? ›

W= Wide and M= Medium width.

What is the size chart of M? ›

Size S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL Shirts – Privee Paris.
...
Shirt Size Converter (Letter to Number)
Letter (means)NumberNeck
S Size (Small)39 Size39 cm
M Size (Medium)40 Size40 cm
M Size (Medium)41 Size41 cm
L Size (Large)42 Size42 cm
7 more rows

Is M size 8 or 10? ›

Women's Size Chart
SizeBustWaist
S (4-6)34-35″27½-28½″
M (8-10)36-37″29½-30½″
L (12-14)38½-40″32-33½″
XL (16-18)42-43½″34-36″
4 more rows

Is size 14 a medium or large? ›

Big Girls Clothes (Size 14 - Large)

Is M size or XL? ›

SizeWaist
2XL100 cm = 38 Inches = XXL
XL95 cm =36 Inches = XL
M85 cm = 32 Inches = M
L90 cm = 34 Inches = L
2 more rows

How much does a size M weigh? ›

Mondor
SizeHeightWeight
S4'11 - 5'4 /1.50 - 1.60cm95 - 115lbs / 43 - 52kg
M5'2 - 5'7 / 1.55 - 1.70cm115 - 135lbs / 52 - 61kg
L5'4 - 5'9 / 1.60 - 1.75cm135 - 155lbs / 61 - 70kg
XL5'6 - 5'11 / 1.65 - 1.80cm150 - 175lbs / 68 - 77kg
1 more row

Is M size 12 or 14? ›

What dress size is a 'Medium'? This varies from brand to brand and by country. Some stores will consider a medium to be a size 10, while others a size 12-14. As an average, a Medium is likely to be a around a size 12.

What is M size by age? ›

Clothing Size Charts for Boys
US SizeAgeHeight
8 (M)8 - 950 - 52
10/12 (L)8 - 952-1/2 - 55-1/2
10/12 (L)9 - 1056 - 58
14/16 (XL)10 - 1158-1/2 - 60-1/2
6 more rows

What size is a 40 in Zara? ›

Zara Size charts
European standard3540
American standard59
Feet length22.826

Is Zara the same as H&M? ›

Key Takeaways

H&M is the oldest, has the largest number of physical stores, and has expanded from its budget roots to include seven other brands. Zara is most prominent in its native Spain but has managed to expand globally, expanding its brand to include Zara Home.

How long do Zara returns take? ›

Once the return has been completed we will send you a confirmation email. If you do not see a credit to your account within 14 days, please use this confirmation and present it to your banking institution so they may help you facilitate the process.

What happens to Zara returns? ›

Once we have processed the return of your items, we will proceed with the refund. If you have returned an item purchased in a store, the refund will be made to the same payment method used for the purchase.

Who delivers Zara? ›

We use DHL to send all of our orders and they are forwarded to the national postal service on arrival in the country of destination. How long does delivery take? International orders generally take between 1-3 working days to arrive.

Should I get size M or L? ›

The height and weight

Here are some examples : If your height is around 1m80 and your weight is around 65/70kg, you can opt for a size M. If you are 1m80, but you are more stout (more than 80kg), you can choose a size L.

Is size 10 medium or large? ›

I WONDER HOW MUCH IT SHRINKS?
WOMEN'S SIZES:
Size:Hips:
Medium8-1037-38"
Large12-1439-41"
XLarge16-1842-44"
2 more rows

How big is a size 10 woman? ›

Details
5'5"–5'9" (165–175 cm) tall, average bust, average back
Dimension/size410
Bust32-3436½
Waist22-24½29
Hip33-35½39
1 more row

What does the color of Zara logo mean? ›

The current wordmark features a custom typeface with tall narrowed letters entwined on their bottom parts, and the leg of the letter “R” curled and a little elongated. The black color of the logo stands for the style, elegance, and excellence of Zara's high-end products.

What does the symbol on Zara clothes mean? ›

'When you're looking for jeans make sure you look at the tag, there's going to be a circle, triangle or a square,' she said in the clip. 'The circle means it runs big, triangle means it runs small, and square means true to size,' Vanessa continued to explain.

What does TRF mean in Zara? ›

In fact, Zara told us: 'TRF stands for Trafaluc which is one of the four main departments of the Zara ladieswear collection, the TRF section is aimed more towards the younger customer rather than the WOMAN or STUDIO collections which are a bit more classic in style.

Do Zara jeans get bigger? ›

Though it can be tempting to buy styles with stretch, they have a tendency to stretch out after a few wears. On the other hand, the brand's non-stretch denim holds its shape like a $300 pair of jeans would and fits so well.

Is Zara popular in US? ›

How popular is Zara in the United States? In total, 11% of U.S. fashion store customers say they like Zara. However, in actuality, among the 46% of U.S. respondents who know Zara, 24% of people like the brand.

Do Zara jeans fit big? ›

While I love the styles available, Zara's jeans sizes do run small and some are prone to stretching. One hot tip is to stick to those that are 100% cotton and size up, but even then you may need a good try on before finding the best fit.

What size do the Zara models wear? ›

Generally most models are sizes 2, 4 or 6. If the models are well known you might be able to research their size, or it may say on the website but that is pretty unlikely. My advice would be go try on that size in store before you buy as then you will have a better idea of your size and how well the clothing will fit.

Does Zara take old clothes? ›

Yes. You may include any kind of clothing, household linens, footwear, accessories, and even jewelry. Can I donate clothes that are not in perfect condition? Yes.

Can I return sale items to Zara? ›

Can you return Zara sale items? Yes, you can return Zara sale items up to 30 days from the date of purchase. This goes for items bought in stores and online, but if you're buying in-store I definitely recommend trying the items on first while you're there to avoid needing to go back.

Is Zara XS a size 8? ›

Although to be honest, I challenge you to find any sizes at either end of the scale actually on a rail in a store. XXS (UK 6), XS (UK 8), S (UK 10), M (UK 12), L (UK 14), XL (UK 16), XXL (UK 18).

What size does Zara models wear? ›

Generally most models are sizes 2, 4 or 6. If the models are well known you might be able to research their size, or it may say on the website but that is pretty unlikely. My advice would be go try on that size in store before you buy as then you will have a better idea of your size and how well the clothing will fit.

Is size 8 and medium? ›

I WONDER HOW MUCH IT SHRINKS?
WOMEN'S SIZES:
Size:Chest:
Small4-634-35"
Medium8-1036-37"
Large12-1438-39"
2 more rows

Is women's size 8 small or medium? ›

Women's Clothing
SizeX-SmallMedium
USA28
Bust
Inches3036
Centimetres7792
7 more rows

Is size 8 a mid size? ›

Midsize simply refers to the range of clothing sizes that sit between typical straight sizes and plus sizes. Straight sizes are generally considered to be 0 to 8, and plus sizes are conventionally known as 16 and up. That would put the midsize range from 10 to 14.

What size is a model female? ›

Height is typically between 5'9″-6″, bust is between 32″-36″, waist is between 22″-26″, and hips should be between 33″-35″. Of course most woman don't meet these standards and that is why fashion models generally get paid the most and work the most.

What is the average size woman model? ›

Female measurements: Although they may be any size, female fit models should usually fit industry standard sizes of 5'4'' to 5'9''.

What size do female models wear? ›

Many garment manufacturers seek female fashion models who are between the ages of 16 and 30, between 5 feet 8 inches and 5 feet 11 inches in height and wear from a size six to a size 10. Male models generally must be between 6 feet and 6 feet 2 inches in height and wear a size 40 or 42 regular suit.

What size is a 38 in Zara jeans? ›

Zara Size charts
European standard3538
American standard57.5
Feet length22.824.6

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