Size Guide: How to Choose the Right Size for Women's Pants and Suits
Share
Quick answer: To choose the right size for women's trousers, you need three body measurements (not over clothes): waist circumference at the narrowest point, hip circumference at the widest point, and inner leg inseam. Compare these measurements with the size chart for the specific garment—not with the size you usually wear—because the fit changes between wide-leg, cargo, and tailored suit trousers.
Why your "usual size" isn't enough
A size 42 isn't the same across all styles. Wide-leg trousers, like those in our coordinated sets, are designed to drape loosely on the hips, while suit trousers should follow the leg line without pulling. This is why every product page at Atelier Roma Bianchi has its own size chart in centimeters: that's the source to use, not another brand's label.
How to take measurements correctly
1. Waist circumference
Place the tape measure at the narrowest part of your torso, usually 2–3 cm above your navel. The tape should be snug but not tight: you should be able to slide a finger underneath. Breathe normally—don't hold your breath, or the trousers will feel tight when sitting.
2. Hip circumference
Measure the widest part of your hips and glutes, keeping your feet together and the tape parallel to the floor. For high-waisted, wide-leg trousers, this is the most important measurement: if the garment fits over your hips, the rest will hang correctly.
3. Inner leg inseam
Measure from your crotch to your ankle along the inside of your leg. For wide-leg trousers, the ideal length reaches 1–2 cm from the ground with the shoes you intend to wear: this is what creates the "endless leg" effect typical of Italian style.
Between two sizes? Here's the rule
- Wide-leg and palazzo trousers: choose based on your hips. If you're between two sizes, take the smaller one if the fabric has elastane, the larger one if it's rigid.
- Suits and sets (jacket + trousers): choose the size for the most "difficult" body part. A slightly loose jacket can be worn open; a jacket tight on the shoulders cannot be corrected.
- Blouses and tops: measure your bust circumference at the fullest point. If the fabric is sheer or silk, avoid sizing down: button strains are immediately noticeable.
- Sweaters and knitwear: here, your preferred fit matters. For a fitted look, take your usual size; for a soft "Italian oversized" effect, go up one size.
How Atelier Roma Bianchi garments fit
Our garments fit true to size: they correspond to the measurements indicated in the size chart on each product page. If your measurements fall within the chart, you can order your usual size. And if the garment doesn't fit as you'd like, you can return it within 30 days of receipt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size trousers should I order if I'm a 44 at the waist but a 46 at the hips?
Order the 46. A slightly generous waist can be easily adjusted by a tailor (or with a belt), whereas trousers that pull at the hips form horizontal creases that cannot be removed.
Do wide-leg trousers look good on short people?
Yes, under two conditions: high waist and hem long to 1–2 cm from the ground, worn with even a low heel. The continuous vertical line from the waist to the floor visually lengthens the figure.
How do I know if a jacket is the right size?
The shoulder seam should end exactly where your shoulder bone ends. If it falls beyond, the jacket is too big; if it pulls when you cross your arms, it's too small. The correct sleeve length leaves about half a centimeter of your wrist exposed.
Should measurements be taken on the body or on a garment I already own?
On the body, to compare them with the size chart. Alternatively, you can measure a pair of trousers that fit you perfectly, laid flat on a table, and double the waist and hip measurements—but always check that the product chart indicates garment or body measurements.
What if the size I ordered doesn't fit?
You can return your order within 30 days of receipt. You'll find all the details in our refund policy.