Vintage Clothing Sizes: How to Measure and Buy Online

Published November 4, 2026 · All guides

A size label on a vintage garment tells you very little. Sizing was not standardised in the way it is today, and sizes have changed over the decades, so the number on the label is often much smaller than the same number now. The reliable approach is to buy by measurement.

Measure a garment you already own

Lay a well-fitting garment flat and measure it. Note the chest or bust, waist, hip, shoulder width, sleeve length and overall length. These are your target numbers.

Ask the seller for flat measurements

Ask for measurements taken with the garment laid flat: pit to pit (double it for the full chest), waist, hip, shoulder seam to seam, sleeve length and total length. Many sellers list these already. If they do not, ask. A good listing includes them.

Allow for fabric and ease

Fabrics such as rayon, acetate and many older woven cottons have little or no stretch, so a garment that is tight will stay tight. Check whether the listing mentions a zip, hook closures or a lining, as these affect how much room you have. Measurements of a fitted dress and a loose coat mean different things.

Check condition at the seams

Ask about underarm wear, seam strain and any past alterations, because these show up most in garments that were worn tight. Our guide on dating a vintage dress by label, zipper and seams helps with the age side of the checks.

Find vintage pieces on eBay

Browse vintage dresses and 1950s dresses on eBay, and compare the listed measurements with your own.

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