Jeans sizing can be confusing, especially in Ireland where UK, EU, and US systems all come into play. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, understanding your size is key to avoiding returns and finding that perfect fit. This jeans size guide covers everything you need: from how to measure properly, to size conversion charts, and even how Levi’s jeans compare across regions.
Women’s Jeans Size Chart (UK/Ireland, EU, US)
When shopping for jeans for women, sizing varies across countries. Use the chart below to find your fit.
| Waist (inches) | Int’l Size | UK/IE Size | US Size | EU Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 | XXS | 4 | 0 | 32 |
| 24 | XXS | 6 | 2 | 34 |
| 25 | XS | 6–8 | 2–4 | 34–36 |
| 26 | XS | 8 | 4 | 36 |
| 27 | S | 8–10 | 4–6 | 36–38 |
| 28 | S | 10 | 6 | 38 |
| 29 | M | 12 | 8 | 40 |
| 30 | M | 12–14 | 8–10 | 40–42 |
| 31 | M | 14 | 10 | 42 |
| 32 | L | 16 | 12 | 44 |
| 33 | L | 16–18 | 12–14 | 44–46 |
| 34 | XL | 18 | 14 | 46 |
| 36 | XL | 20 | 16 | 48 |
Men’s Jeans Size Chart (UK/Ireland, EU, US)
Men’s jeans are usually sized by waist and leg length, but the numbers can still vary slightly across regions. Use this chart to guide your purchase of jeans for men.
| Waist (inches) | Int’l Size | UK/IE/US Size | EU Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 | XS | 28 | 44 |
| 29 | S | 29 | 46 |
| 30 | S | 30 | 46 |
| 31 | S/M | 31 | 48 |
| 32 | M | 32 | 48 |
| 33 | M | 33 | 50 |
| 34 | L | 34 | 50 |
| 36 | L | 36 | 52 |
| 38 | XL | 38 | 54 |
| 40 | XL | 40 | 56 |
| 42 | XXL | 42 | 58 |
| 44 | XXL | 44 | 60 |
How to Measure Waist for Jeans
To find the right waist size, wear fitted clothing and stand straight. Using a soft measuring tape, wrap it around your natural waistline—just above your belly button. The tape should be snug but not tight. Once measured, refer to the jeans size chart above to match your waist measurement with your correct jeans size.
How to Measure Leg Length for Jeans
Your inseam is the measurement from the crotch seam down to the ankle. Stand straight and use a soft tape measure for the most accurate measurement. This will help you determine the proper jeans length, especially when browsing different jeans length guides.
Women’s Jeans Length Guide
To choose the right leg length, either measure your inseam or refer to your height. Here’s a quick guide:
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Petite (28" inseam): Ideal for women 5'1" and shorter
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Short (30" inseam): Best for women 5'2" to 5'3"
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Regular (32" inseam): Fits most women between 5'4" to 5'7"
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Long (34" inseam): Suitable for women 5'8" and above
Men’s Jeans Length Guide
For men, leg length typically follows these general guidelines:
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Short (30" inseam): Best for men 5’6" to 5’8"
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Regular (32" inseam): Ideal for men 5’8" to 6’
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Long (34" inseam): Designed for men 6’ and taller
Jeans Size Conversions Explained
Jeans sizing differs globally:
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In the UK/Ireland, women’s jeans are numbered (e.g., UK 10) while men’s use waist/inseam (e.g., 32/30).
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To convert UK women’s sizes to EU, add 28 (UK 10 = EU 38).
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To convert to US sizes, subtract 4 (UK 10 = US 6).
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Men’s jeans sizes are mostly consistent globally, but can vary slightly in fit or cut.
Use this jeans size converter logic to navigate brands with international sizing.
Buying Women’s Jeans vs Men’s Jeans
Women’s jeans often include vanity sizing and are influenced by body shape, especially hip-to-waist ratios. Petite and tall ranges are also more common. Men’s jeans use waist/inseam sizing, which tends to be more standard across brands.
While unisex fits exist, they don’t suit every body type. It’s best to measure your body and consult a detailed jeans size guide before buying.
Explore jeans for women or jeans for men at Shaws to find your best fit.
Levi Jeans Size Chart Conversion
Levi’s uses waist/inseam (e.g., 32/30), making them consistent across UK, EU, and US markets. Women’s Levi jeans follow waist-inch sizing, but different styles (like skinny jeans, wide cut, or high rise) can affect the fit.
Levi’s also provides fit guides using centimeters, which are handy for precision. Keep in mind how stretch or rigid denim affects sizing. When in doubt, check the specific product’s guide before ordering your Levi’s jeans.
Jeans Fit Types
Different jeans cuts suit different styles and body types:
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Skinny Jeans: Snug from waist through ankle—highly form-fitting
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Straight Leg: Consistent width from thigh to ankle
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Wide Cut: Looser fit from hip down—great for relaxed comfort
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Bootcut: Slight flare from the knee down
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High Rise: Sits at or above the natural waist
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Mid Rise: Sits below the belly button
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Low Rise: Rests on the hips
Choosing the right fit and rise ensures comfort and style.
Denim Material and Sizing
Stretch denim often contains elastane, offering flexibility—consider sizing down slightly. Rigid denim, such as raw or selvedge, has no stretch and may feel tighter until broken in, so sizing up is often recommended.
Fabric content impacts how a pair of jeans will fit over time, so always check the label.
Shop Jeans at Shaws
Whether you're searching for skinny jeans, high-rise styles, or classic straight fits, Shaws has a wide selection. Browse our collection of women’s jeans, men’s jeans, and iconic Levi’s jeans to find your perfect pair.