Jeans Size Calculator

Find your perfect jeans size using your waist measurement. Convert between US and EU denim sizes with hip measurements and letter equivalents, covering sizes 24 through 40.

Quick Converter

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US Size	EU Size	Waist (inches)	Waist (cm)	Hip (inches)	Letter Size
24	32	24	61	34	XXS
25	34	25	63.5	35	XXS
26	34	26	66	36	XS
27	36	27	68.5	37	XS
28	36	28	71	38	S
29	38	29	73.5	39	S
30	38	30	76	40	M
31	40	31	78.5	41	M
32	42	32	81	42	L
33	42	33	84	43	L
34	44	34	86	44	L
36	46	36	91.5	46	XL
38	48	38	96.5	48	XL
40	50	40	101.5	50	XXL

Click any row to highlight it. Sizes are approximate and may vary by brand.

How to Measure for Jeans

The key to well-fitting jeans starts with accurate measurements. Use a soft tape measure and wear thin clothing or underwear.

Waist

For jeans, measure where you want the waistband to sit, not necessarily your natural waist. High-rise jeans sit at the navel, mid-rise jeans sit 2-3 inches below, and low-rise jeans sit at the hip bones. Keep the tape snug but not tight.

Hips

Stand with feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. This measurement is especially important for curvy body types to ensure jeans fit through the hip and thigh without gapping at the waist.

Inseam

Measure from the crotch seam to the bottom hem of a pair of jeans that fit you well, or from your inner crotch to the desired hem length. Standard inseams are 30 inches (short), 32 inches (regular), and 34 inches (long).

Understanding Denim Fits

Skinny

Fitted from hip to ankle. High-stretch denim (2-5% elastane) means you can often stay true to size. If the fabric has no stretch, consider sizing up one.

Straight

Even width from knee to hem. A universally flattering cut. True to size for most people. The classic choice for 100% cotton, rigid denim.

Bootcut

Fitted through the thigh with a slight flare below the knee. Balances wider hips and pairs perfectly with boots. True to size is usually best.

Wide Leg

Relaxed from hip to hem. For a structured look, stay true to size. For an oversized, relaxed aesthetic, consider sizing up one or two sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the jeans size number equal my waist measurement?

In theory, yes, but in practice many brands use vanity sizing where a labeled size 28 might actually measure 29 or 30 inches at the waist. Premium denim brands like APC and Acne Studios tend to be more true to size, while mass market brands often add an extra inch or two. When in doubt, measure the actual garment waistband of jeans that fit you well.

Should I size down for stretch denim?

It depends on the stretch percentage. Jeans with 1-2% elastane will stretch minimally and you should buy your true size. Jeans with 3-5% elastane or more will stretch noticeably after a few wears, so sizing down one size can help them maintain their shape. Raw, 100% cotton denim will also stretch about an inch in the waist after break-in.

How do EU jeans sizes relate to US sizes?

EU jeans sizes are calculated by adding 8 to the US waist size in even increments. A US 28 is roughly an EU 36, a US 32 is an EU 42, and so on. Some European brands also use centimeter-based sizing or W/L notation (e.g., W32/L32), where W is the waist in inches and L is the inseam in inches, which is the same as the US system.

How do I choose the right rise for my body type?

High-rise jeans (10+ inches) elongate the legs and are ideal for longer torsos or if you want a tucked-in shirt look. Mid-rise (8-9 inches) works for most body types as a balanced, everyday option. Low-rise (7 inches or less) suits shorter torsos and creates a casual, relaxed silhouette. Try different rises to see what feels most comfortable when sitting and bending.