Laura Ashley Size Guide
Complete Sizing Information for Women's, Men's & Children's Collections
Laura Ashley is an iconic British heritage brand renowned for romantic florals, vintage femininity, and timeless country elegance. Founded with a commitment to graceful, sophisticated design, Laura Ashley has become synonymous with classic British style across clothing, homeware, and lifestyle products. The brand's sizing philosophy centres on comfort, modesty, and enduring elegance. Laura Ashley garments follow traditional British sizing conventions and are designed to flatter a wide range of silhouettes with well-proportioned cuts. Whether you're shopping for tiered maxi dresses, classic blouses, cosy knitwear, or home-inspired collections, Laura Ashley offers pieces that transcend seasonal trends. The brand is particularly beloved by those who appreciate heritage craftsmanship, quality fabrics, and designs that celebrate romantic, vintage-inspired aesthetics. Laura Ashley sizing is generally true to size, though fit can vary depending on fabric composition and garment construction.
How to Measure Yourself
For the most accurate Laura Ashley size, take these key measurements whilst wearing minimal clothing and keeping the tape measure horizontal and snug but not tight:
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape level under your arms and across your shoulder blades. If wearing a bra, ensure it is a well-fitting style.
- Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your natural waistline, where you naturally bend from side to side.
- Hips: Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom, keeping the tape level.
- Length (for dresses & skirts): For skirt length, measure from your natural waist down to where you'd like the hem to fall. For dress length, measure from the shoulder to the floor or your desired hemline.
Pro tip: Ask a friend to help with measurements for accuracy, and measure over a thin layer of clothing if preferred. Record all measurements and compare against the appropriate size chart below.
Women's Clothing Size Chart
Laura Ashley women's sizing follows standard UK sizing. The brand is known for romantic, elegant cuts with particular attention to bust definition and hip accommodation. Dresses often run generously, whilst structured tops may fit more snugly.
- Dresses: Often come up generously; fitted bodices may run snug especially across the bust. Check fabric stretch before ordering.
- Blouses & Tops: More forgiving with relaxed fit through the body and arms; woven cotton styles tend to be slightly roomy.
- Trousers & Skirts: Traditionally fitted at the waist with looser cut at hips; size up if curvy through the middle.
- Knitwear & Layering: Roomy and comfortable; true to size with flexibility.
| UK Size | US Size | EU Size | Bust (inches) | Waist (inches) | Hips (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 0 | 32 | 32 | 25 | 29 |
| 6 | 2 | 34 | 34 | 26.5 | 32 |
| 8 | 4 | 36 | 35 | 27 | 34 |
| 10 | 6 | 38 | 36 | 28 | 36 |
| 12 | 8 | 40 | 37 | 29 | 38 |
| 14 | 10 | 42 | 38 | 30 | 40 |
| 16 | 12 | 44 | 39 | 31 | 42 |
| 18 | 14 | 46 | 40 | 32 | 44 |
| 20 | 16 | 48 | 42 | 34 | 46 |
| 22 | 18 | 50 | 44 | 37 | 48 |
Men's Clothing Size Chart
Laura Ashley offers a carefully curated men's collection featuring classic knitwear, smart shirts, and refined tailoring. The brand maintains a traditional, well-proportioned fit with emphasis on quality fabrics and timeless design.
| UK/EU Size | US Size | Chest (inches) | Waist (inches) | Sleeve Length (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small (46) | XS | 36–38 | 30–32 | 31–32 |
| Medium (48) | S–M | 38–40 | 32–34 | 32–33 |
| Large (50) | M–L | 40–42 | 34–36 | 33–34 |
| XL (52) | L–XL | 42–44 | 36–38 | 34–35 |
| XXL (54) | XL–XXL | 44–46 | 38–40 | 35–36 |
Children's Clothing Size Chart
Laura Ashley children's collection features enchanting prints and durable designs for play and special occasions. Sizing is age-based with generous room for growth and comfort.
| Age | Size Label | Height (inches) | Chest (inches) | Waist (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0–3 months | 0–3M | 20–24 | 16–17 | 15–16 |
| 3–6 months | 3–6M | 24–27 | 17–18 | 16–17 |
| 6–12 months | 6–12M | 27–30 | 18–19 | 17–18 |
| 12–18 months | 12–18M | 30–33 | 19–20 | 18–19 |
| 18–24 months | 18–24M | 33–36 | 20–21 | 19–20 |
| 2–3 years | 2T–3T | 36–39 | 21–22 | 20–21 |
| 3–4 years | 3T–4T | 39–42 | 22–23 | 21–22 |
| 4–5 years | 4–5 years | 42–45 | 23–24 | 22–23 |
| 5–6 years | 5–6 years | 45–48 | 24–25 | 23–24 |
| 6–7 years | 6–7 years | 48–51 | 25–26 | 24–25 |
Product-Specific Sizing Guidance
Laura Ashley Dresses & Skirts
Dresses are one of Laura Ashley's signature pieces and tend to come up generously, especially in fit-and-flare and tiered styles. Fitted bodices may run snug across the bust, particularly in woven cotton with minimal stretch. Consider checking individual product reviews and measuring garment width if available on the product page. For maxi dresses, the length is typically designed for women 5'6" and above; consider tailoring for shorter frames. Skirts sit comfortably at the waist with a relaxed hip, following traditional proportions.
Laura Ashley Blouses & Tops
Blouses feature relaxed, forgiving fits through the body and sleeves. Woven cotton styles are slightly roomy and breathable; jersey tops offer more stretch. If you're between sizes, choose the smaller size for a more tailored look or the larger for added comfort. Check for details like empire waistlines or structured bodices, which may affect fit around the bust.
Laura Ashley Trousers & Tailoring
Trousers follow a traditional cut: fitted at the waist with a looser, more accommodating fit through the hips and thighs. If you have a curvier silhouette or sit between sizes in the waist, size up to avoid a tight waistband. Inseam lengths are designed for standard proportions; taller or shorter customers should budget for tailoring.
Laura Ashley Knitwear & Layering
Knitwear is designed with comfort and ease in mind. Jumpers and cardigans run true to size with a relaxed, comfortable fit. If you prefer a fitted silhouette, size down; if you favour layering and ease, stick to your true size. Fabrics like merino wool and cotton-blend knits offer gentle stretch.
Laura Ashley Coats & Outerwear
Coats tend to run generous, particularly classic wool styles. Most customers find their true size or a size smaller works well, depending on how much layering space you prefer. Consider the coat's purpose—a formal coat may suit a true size, whilst a casual country coat can accommodate a size down for a more defined silhouette. Check that sleeve length is appropriate, as tailoring a coat sleeve is complex.
Laura Ashley Underwear & Basics
Underwear and basic layers follow standard sizing and are generally true to size. Laura Ashley basics are designed with comfort and longevity in mind, using quality cotton and cotton-blend fabrics. Choose your usual bra size and clothing size for consistency.
Sizing Tips & Recommendations
- Fabric Composition Matters: Woven cottons and viscose have minimal stretch and may feel snug across the bust or upper arms, particularly in fitted styles. Jersey and knit fabrics offer more forgiveness. Always check the fabric content for better fit prediction.
- Check Individual Product Reviews: Laura Ashley customers regularly share fit feedback on the product pages. Read 3–4 recent reviews mentioning size and fit to understand whether a particular style runs small, true to size, or generously. Real customer experiences are invaluable.
- Know Your Body Shape: Laura Ashley's designs work beautifully on a range of silhouettes, but cuts are particularly flattering for pear-shaped and hourglass figures with emphasis on waist definition. If you're rectangular or apple-shaped, focus on styles with draping, gathered skirts, or looser cuts. Empire waistlines, wrap dresses, and A-line skirts are universally forgiving.
- Test the Measurement Against Your Own: For each item, find a similar garment you own that fits beautifully. Lay both flat on a table and compare bust, waist, and hip measurements. This is far more reliable than trusting size labels alone, especially when comparing to vintage or heritage brands with different construction standards.
- Consider the Occasion: Laura Ashley pieces designed for formal wear (special occasion dresses, structured jackets) tend to run more snugly for a polished silhouette. Casual pieces like loungewear and everyday dresses are intentionally relaxed and generous. Adjust your size choice accordingly.
- Factor in Layering & Undergarments: If you plan to wear a structured bra, camisole, or thermal layer underneath, size up slightly to avoid pinching or bunching. Laura Ashley's romantic aesthetic often pairs beautifully with layering, so ensure your chosen size accommodates this.
- Check Return & Exchange Policies: Laura Ashley typically offers easy returns and exchanges on unworn items with tags attached. If you're uncertain between two sizes, order both if possible. This eliminates guesswork and ensures you find the perfect fit.
- Tailoring is Your Friend: Laura Ashley pieces, particularly dresses and skirts, tailor beautifully without compromising design or finish. If a style is otherwise perfect but slightly too long or loose, professional tailoring is a worthwhile investment in a classic piece you'll wear for years.
- Account for Seasonal Variation: Seasonal collections and collaborations may feature different fabrics, construction methods, and fits. A dress from the summer linen collection may fit differently from a winter cotton dress. Always reference the current size chart and customer feedback for the specific season you're shopping.
- Don't Overlook Heritage & Vanity Sizing: Laura Ashley is a classic British brand with roots in traditional tailoring. The sizing reflects this heritage and tends towards modesty and comfort rather than contemporary vanity sizing. If you typically size down in modern fast-fashion brands, you may find Laura Ashley sizing more generous and forgiving.
International Size Conversions
Use this table to convert Laura Ashley UK sizes to international equivalents:
| UK Size | US Size | EU Size | AU Size | FR Size | IT Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 0 | 32 | 4 | 32 | 34 |
| 6 | 2 | 34 | 6 | 34 | 36 |
| 8 | 4 | 36 | 8 | 36 | 38 |
| 10 | 6 | 38 | 10 | 38 | 40 |
| 12 | 8 | 40 | 12 | 40 | 42 |
| 14 | 10 | 42 | 14 | 42 | 44 |
| 16 | 12 | 44 | 16 | 44 | 46 |
| 18 | 14 | 46 | 18 | 46 | 48 |
| 20 | 16 | 48 | 20 | 48 | 50 |
| 22 | 18 | 50 | 22 | 50 | 52 |
Understanding Laura Ashley Fit Philosophy
Laura Ashley's sizing approach reflects the brand's core values: timeless elegance, comfort, and confidence. Rather than chasing seasonal trends or extreme silhouettes, Laura Ashley designs garments that celebrate femininity, modesty, and wearability. The brand recognises that beautiful style is not confined to a single size—it's about proportion, quality, and how a piece makes you feel.
The brand offers inclusive sizing from UK 4 through to UK 22, with specialised collections for maternity, petite, and curve customers. This commitment to accessibility means Laura Ashley pieces can be enjoyed by a truly diverse range of shoppers. The romantic aesthetic—featuring signature florals, delicate embroidery, lace details, and vintage-inspired silhouettes—translates beautifully across all sizes.
Fabric quality is paramount at Laura Ashley. The brand invests in natural fibres like cotton, linen, wool, and viscose, which are selected not only for their beauty but for their durability and comfort. These materials are often structured and hold their shape beautifully, which means fit remains consistent wash after wash, year after year. This longevity is part of the Laura Ashley promise: pieces that age gracefully and remain wardrobe staples for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laura Ashley Sizing
Does Laura Ashley Run Big or Small?
Laura Ashley sizing is generally true to size, but with some important caveats. The brand tends towards generosity in certain silhouettes—particularly dresses, coats, and outerwear—whilst structured tops may fit more snugly. This reflects the brand's heritage approach: comfort-first design with attention to proper proportions rather than contemporary vanity sizing. Always check the fabric content and read customer reviews for the specific piece you're interested in.
What If I'm Between Sizes?
If your measurements fall between two sizes, choose based on which measurement is largest. For example, if your bust is a UK 10 but your hips are a UK 12, choose the UK 12 to avoid a too-tight hip. For fitted styles (structured dresses, tailored jackets), choose the smaller size if the difference is minimal. For relaxed styles (loungewear, casual dresses), choose the larger size for comfort.
Are Laura Ashley Pieces True to Size in All Categories?
Not entirely. Dresses tend to run a size larger than standard, coats often run generously, whilst blouses and structured pieces fit more closely to true size. Always read product-specific reviews and check the item's detailed measurements if available on the website before purchasing.
Can I Tailor Laura Ashley Pieces?
Absolutely. Laura Ashley designs respond beautifully to tailoring without compromising the garment's aesthetic or construction. Hems can be adjusted, darts can be added or released for fit, and seams can be taken in or let out depending on the design. Because Laura Ashley pieces are made to last, investing in professional tailoring is worthwhile.
How Does Laura Ashley Compare to Other British Brands?
Laura Ashley sits firmly in the heritage, classic British segment alongside brands like Boden and Crew Clothing. The sizing is consistent with UK standards and tends to be less vanity-focused than contemporary high street brands. If you wear a UK 10 in M&S, you'll likely wear a UK 10 in Laura Ashley, though individual style fits may vary. Compared to vintage British brands, Laura Ashley is slightly more modern and forgiving in cut.
Shopping Tips for Success
- Measure yourself accurately and compare against the size chart before every purchase.
- Read recent customer reviews specifically mentioning size and fit.
- Check the detailed product photos and description for clues about fit (fitted bodice, relaxed sleeve, structured fabric, etc.).
- If shopping online, verify the return policy and ensure you can easily exchange a size if needed.
- Consider ordering multiple sizes if you're particularly uncertain; returns and exchanges are typically free.
- Don't hesitate to contact Laura Ashley customer service with fit questions—they're knowledgeable and helpful.
- Remember that Laura Ashley pieces are designed for longevity, so a well-fitting garment will bring joy for years to come.