topic Re: XL vs 1X Sizing in Fashion

XL vs 1X Sizing

QueenofTheQ — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 14:10:53 GMT

I know this has probably been explained before but if so, I missed it. I'm sometimes torn between which of these sizes to order. Sometimes, but not always, when I look at the 'click here' garment measurements on the description page, the XL measurements are slightly larger than the 1X measurements. Have any of the hosts ever explained how this can be? Thanks in advance.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

KathyPet — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 14:53:53 GMT

Yes, I find that to be trus. I was considering ordering a LInea skirt recently. The reviews said it ran large. I normally wear a 1x in LInea. When I looked at the click here measurements the XL was bigger in the waist and hips then the 1x. As a result I ordered nothing due to the new shipping refund policy.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

violann — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 15:11:55 GMT

Most confusing subject EVER. Somewhere in ancient history, "misses" sizes could run from 12-24, proportionally similar as actual sizes increased, shorter waisted, "half" sizes ran 12 1/2-24 1/2 cut larger in shoulders, bust, waist, and hips and longer waisted. As these sizes morphed to current sizing, they became sort of a "depends on manufacturer" issue. The Q is not consistent to any specs that I can figure out, so the XL-1X ladies are somewhere in "No-Woman's Land" at this size. Also should add, waist and hip measurements can be different or the same for both sizes, but rise is fuller in 1X. Or then again, maybe not.......

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

birkin baby — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 15:50:54 GMT

The arm circumference is often smaller in the 1x as well. I lost a ton(pun!) Of weight Nd my arms didn't snap back no matter how much h I work out. I always make sure of that measurement. I like a little extra room there if possible. I notice in Susan Graver tank and jacket sets,the tank is often bigger in the chest. Arrgggh! How does this ever make sense?

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

Helping — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 16:56:16 GMT

The sleeve length of tops is always longer in XL, which is why I order that size.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

chrystaltree — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 17:05:49 GMT

I never look at garment measurements, that seems weird to me. I go by body measurements. The XL and 1X are basically the same size. The XL waist and hip measurement is sometimes an inch smaller than the 1X. I think it's a vanity thing, some women don't like the idea of wearing an X size.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

Brooklynny — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 17:18:23 GMT

The thing to realize is that there are NO size standards among apparel manufacturers. None at all. Each manufacturer decides what measurements will be used for each size. I have relatives in then fashion industry, and it has been this way for decades, and there's no sign that this will ever change. Do they do this for vanity sizing? Maybe. Is it to save money and scrimp on fabric? Sometimes yes. But one thing is for certain -- it's very confusing and really irritating when you're trying to figure out what size you truly are. Just open your closet and look at all the sizes of clothing you've got in there. I'll bet that no one's closet is filled with clothing in all one size. The only thing the hosts can do is to point out that an article of clothing runs large or runs small, and that rarely happens.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

rhinovodka — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 17:28:00 GMT

I always thought that XL was cut a bit smaller than 1x. I know in regular stores, there seems to be a difference between a 16 misses vs. 16 womens (the misses is usually cut a bit smaller), maybe that is just in numbered sizes though. I am not sure about the Q though because I usually order L or XL.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

depglass — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 17:36:09 GMT

I look at it this way. Now I have a backup size to go to if my original is gone. I think QVC added XL's years ago.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

cjmcp — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 18:59:24 GMT

When the Q first added XL it was actually in-between L and 1X which was great for me. But lately, there is little difference between XL & 1X. A few differences I have found to be fairly consistent which you may want to take into account depending on your particular body issues are: (1) the length - 1X is usually a little longer; (2) 1X usually has a little extra room through the mid-section; (3) though there is often very little difference in the chest measurement I frequently find the shoulders too broad and don't hang right if I size up to 1X. I have also found some lines run bigger than others. Denim & Co tends to run bigger so I'll usually go with the XL but typically take a 1X in Linea. The reviews will help you here. Of course, it also depends on whether you like your garments to fit close or roomy. Also, be sure to take fabrication into account; some fabrics drape more than others and you may need to allow for shrinkage if the cotton content is high. The inconsistency is all very frustrating and I find myself taking a "pass" more often than not. Good luck and hope I didn't just muddy the waters more.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

10000Nicknames — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 19:02:14 GMT

On 2/18/2015 cjmcp said:
When the Q first added XL it was actually in-between L and 1X which was great for me. But lately, there is little difference between XL & 1X. A few differences I have found to be fairly consistent which you may want to take into account depending on your particular body issues are: (1) the length - 1X is usually a little longer; (2) 1X usually has a little extra room through the mid-section; (3) though there is often very little difference in the chest measurement I frequently find the shoulders too broad and don't hang right if I size up to 1X. I have also found some lines run bigger than others. Denim & Co tends to run bigger so I'll usually go with the XL but typically take a 1X in Linea. The reviews will help you here. Of course, it also depends on whether you like your garments to fit close or roomy. Also, be sure to take fabrication into account; some fabrics drape more than others and you may need to allow for shrinkage if the cotton content is high. The inconsistency is all very frustrating and I find myself taking a "pass" more often than not. Good luck and hope I didn't just muddy the waters more.

I am between an XL and 1X and DITTO everything cjmcp just said. Spot on!

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

goodstuff — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 19:19:21 GMT

There is an overlap between the upper end of "Missy" sizing and the lower end of "Plus" sizing. I generally expect plus sizes to be proportioned to fit an overall rounder, fuller body shape, regardless of body size/weight. However, there are differences in different clothing lines, so there's some trial and error involved.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

OkeyDokey — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 19:24:22 GMT

In department stores, 1x tends to be a bit wider and shorter than xl much of the time. That isn't a rule, of course, but something I've noticed often. When I was heavier, I skipped 1x altogether on the way down and went straight from 2x down to xl. Sometimes the 1x is narrow through the shoulders and really wide through the waist; the exact opposite of my body type.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

NickNack — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 21:41:29 GMT

On 2/18/2015 rhinovodka said:
I always thought that XL was cut a bit smaller than 1x. I know in regular stores, there seems to be a difference between a 16 misses vs. 16 womens (the misses is usually cut a bit smaller), maybe that is just in numbered sizes though. I am not sure about the Q though because I usually order L or XL.

I used to work for Talbots, and there is a big difference between 16M and 16W. The 16W is more like an 18M-20M. The 1X at Talbots is cut wider in the arms, legs and waist than the XL. I don't know if the same holds true for QVC, but Talbots measurements are close to what other department store brands are.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

brewhaha — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 22:10:00 GMT

That's an XLent question.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

QueenofTheQ — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 00:51:28 GMT

Thank you for all the replies. Lots of good advice here.

Re: XL vs 1X Sizing

shoekitty — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 01:21:34 GMT

On 2/18/2015 brewhaha said:
That's an XLent question.

good one!