Okay, so I put together this sizing cheat sheet for my 10 most-bought brands so you don’t have to waste time on returns.
I order a lot online for my livestreams and this blog. After trying dozens of brands, these are the ones I keep coming back to. Here’s exactly how they fit me and what to watch out for.
Everyday Basics Brands
Everlane
True to size for me. I take XS in tops and size 4 in bottoms. Their cotton tees and tanks have a nice weight and don’t shrink much after washing. Jeans run a little snug in the waist at first but stretch out nicely.
Uniqlo
Consistent and forgiving. XS tops fit well, especially their Airism and Supima lines. Pants and jeans I usually take 25 or 26 waist. Great for basics that need to layer without bulk.
Gap
I go with XS or S in tops and 4/27 in jeans. Their straight and wide-leg pants have good stretch. Older Gap items sometimes run larger, so I check the year if buying secondhand.
Mid-Range & Trend Brands
Madewell
I size 28 in jeans and XS/S in tops. Their jeans have a good amount of stretch but hold shape well. The waist runs true, which I like. Shirts and blazers feel relaxed, not tight in the shoulders.
Zara
They run small. I usually take S in tops (sometimes M if it’s fitted) and 4–6 in bottoms. Fast fashion sizing can be inconsistent between batches, so I always read recent reviews. Their blazers and trousers are worth sizing up if you’re between sizes.
Reformation
I wear size 2 in most dresses and tops. Their sizing is fairly consistent but the fabric has little stretch. Good for structured pieces. If you’re between sizes, I recommend sizing up for comfort, especially in denim.
enim & Casual Brands
Levi's
Classic and reliable. I take 28 in most styles, especially their straight and bootcut. The non-stretch versions need a few wears to break in. Vintage Levi’s from thrift stores sometimes fit even better than new ones.
Abercrombie
Surprisingly good now. I wear size 4 in pants and XS in tops. Their curve love jeans are great if you need more room in the hips. The fabric feels sturdy and washes well without fading too fast.
Mango
European cut, so I take S in most pieces. Tops run a bit narrow in the shoulders, bottoms are true to size. Their linen and cotton items are perfect for LA weather. Good quality for the price.
A&F (Abercrombie & Fitch)
Similar to Abercrombie but slightly roomier. Size 4 or 27 waist works for me. Their wide-leg and barrel jeans have become favorites. Tops run standard — I stick with XS.
Quick Tips I Always Use
Check the model’s height and measurements on the site.
Read the “Customers also say” section — it’s usually honest.
If I’m between sizes, I size up on bottoms and stay true on tops.
Always check return windows before buying multiple colors.
I update this list as I try new brands, but these ten give me the least headaches when shopping online.
These 10 brands save me time and returns every month. If you shop any of them, let me know your own sizing experiences in the comments — I’m always adding new notes!
