Why Are Clothes Sizes in Australia All Over the Place?

Decoding the Mystery:
Why Women's Clothing Sizes in Australia Are All Over the Place

Ever felt like you're playing a guessing game in the change room? You're a size 12 in one shop, a 10 in another, and maybe a 14 somewhere else. Welcome to the confusing world of women's clothing sizes in Australia! It's a common frustration, and here's why it happens.

The "Average" Australian Woman - A Myth?

Aren’t clothing sizes supposed to be based on body measurements? Well, in theory, yes. But the reality is a bit more complex. The Australian Standard Size Coding Scheme was actually scrapped back in 2009. This means there's no official, regulated system that brands have to follow. Instead, they create their own sizing charts, often based on their ideal customer and sales data.

This is where the idea of "averages" comes in. Brands might base their sizes on a particular body shape or customer demographic they're trying to attract. But the thing is, Australian women are incredibly diverse! Our beautiful bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and what might be considered "average" by one brand simply won't work for everyone. The average Australian woman is reportedly a size 14-16, yet many brands still don't cater well to this size range.

The Brand-to-Brand Size Shuffle

So, why can you be different sizes in different shops? Here's a few key reasons:

• No Standard: As mentioned, there's no universal sizing system. Each brand sets its own standards.

• Target Audience: Brands tailor their sizing to fit their target customer. A brand marketing to a younger, slimmer demographic might have smaller sizes overall.

• "Vanity Sizing": Some retailers use "vanity sizing," which means they label clothes as smaller than they actually are to make customers feel good. This can lead to a size 12 actually being closer to a "true" size 14.

• Manufacturing Differences: Even within the same brand, there can be inconsistencies due to manufacturing errors or variations in cutting and sewing.

• Style and Cut: The style of the garment itself can affect sizing. A fitted dress will fit differently than a loose, flowing top, even if they're both labelled the same size.

Navigating the Sizing Maze

It's easy to get disheartened when you can't find clothes that fit consistently. Here's some advice for navigating the sizing maze:

• Focus on Fit, Not the Number: The most important thing is how the clothes feel and look on you. Don't get hung up on the size tag.

• Know Your Measurements: Keep a record of your bust, waist, and hip measurements. Compare these to the brand's size chart (if they provide one).

• Read Reviews: If shopping online, check customer reviews for sizing feedback.

• Embrace Body Positivity: Remember that clothing sizes are arbitrary. Your worth isn't defined by a number on a tag.

BW Tribal: Celebrating Every Body

At BW Tribal, we understand the frustration of inconsistent sizing. We're committed to offering a range of sizes to celebrate the diversity of Australian women. We encourage you to check our size charts and find the fit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. We also provide measurements for our garments on each style page.

Ultimately, clothing sizes are just a guide. The most important thing is to find clothes that make YOU feel good in your own skin! And remember, you're not alone in this sizing struggle!