Levi's Size Guide
Levi's is an iconic American denim brand renowned for its classic jeans, shorts, and casual clothing. Known for quality construction and timeless design, Levi's offers a range of fits from slim to relaxed. This size guide focuses on their core product categories: jeans, shorts, and casual wear. Sizing varies by fit style, so it is essential to measure yourself accurately and compare against the specific product's measurements, as Levi's items are typically non-returnable.
How to Measure
- Waist: Measure around your waist just below your stomach button, or where you would like the jeans to sit. Keep the tape measure snug but not tight.
- Hip: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, keeping the tape measure as horizontal as possible.
- Inseam (Leg Length): Measure straight down the inside leg from the crotch to the ankle bone. If you prefer a stacked or longer look, add 1–2 inches to this measurement. Note that a dropped hem option adds approximately 1.25 inches.
- Height: While not a direct measurement, your height is a helpful guide for selecting the correct inseam length.
- Wear test: Try on a pair of Levi's in a style you already own to establish your baseline size before ordering online.
Levi's 501 Jeans – Women's
| UK Size | Waist Size (W) | Waist (inches) | Hip (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4–6 | W25 | 34" | N/A |
| 6 | W26 | 35" | N/A |
| 6–8 | W27 | 36" | N/A |
| 8 | W28 | 37" | N/A |
| 8–10 | W29 | 38" | N/A |
| 10 | W30 | 39" | N/A |
| 10–12 | W31 | 40" | N/A |
| 12 | W32 | 41.5" | N/A |
| 12–14 | W34 | N/A | 43" |
| 14 | W35 | N/A | 44.5" |
| 14–16 | W37 | N/A | 46.5" |
Levi's 501 Jeans – Inseam and Height Guide
| Inseam Length (inches) | Recommended Height |
|---|---|
| 28" | 5'1" or shorter |
| 30" | 5'2" – 5'3" |
| 32" | 5'4" – 5'7" |
| 34" | 5'8" or taller |
Levi's International Sizing Chart
| France | Germany | Italy | Spain | UK | Russia |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24–25 | 34 | 32 | 38 | 6 | 26–27 |
| 36 | 34 | 40 | 36 | 8 | 42–44 |
| 28–29 | 38 | 36 | 42 | 10 | 44–46 |
| 30–31 | 40 | 38 | 44 | 12 | 46–48 |
| 32–33 | 42 | 40 | 46 | 14 | 48–50 |
| 33–34 | 44 | 42 | 48 | 15 | 48–50 |
Product-Specific Guidance
Jeans
Levi's jeans are sized by waist measurement (in inches) and inseam length. The waist size is denoted as a "W" number (e.g., W30, W32), and the inseam length follows after (e.g., W30 L32). Always measure your inseam accurately, as different rise styles (low, mid, and high) may affect where the waistband sits. The 501 is Levi's signature straight-leg fit and provides a reliable baseline for sizing across other styles.
Shorts
Levi's shorts follow the same waist sizing as jeans but typically feature shorter inseam lengths, ranging from 5" to 11" depending on style. Measure around your waist where you want the shorts to sit. Inseam length for shorts is measured from the crotch to just above the knee or mid-thigh, depending on your preferred fit. Check individual product pages for specific inseam options, as shorts are offered in fewer length variations than full-length jeans.
Casual Shirts and Tops
Levi's casual shirts and graphic tees are typically sized as Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large. These garments are cut to a relaxed, vintage-inspired fit. Measure your chest at its fullest point and compare against the product's chest width measurement (usually provided as a flat lay measurement). Levi's tops tend to run slightly oversized, so if you are between sizes, consider sizing down for a more fitted silhouette.
Sizing Tips
- Always measure yourself: UK dress sizes are guidelines only. Use a measuring tape to determine your exact waist and hip measurements, then compare them directly to the size chart. This is especially important for jeans, where fit is critical.
- Account for fabric shrinkage: Levi's denim, particularly rigid or raw denim, may shrink slightly after the first wash. If you prefer a snug fit, you may want to size down by half a size in the waist. Always check the product care label and consider the fabric composition.
- Inseam length matters: A difference of just 1 or 2 inches in inseam can dramatically affect how jeans look on your frame. Use the height guide provided as a starting point, but measure your own inseam for the most accurate fit. If ordering online and unsure, opt for a longer length; hemming is easier than letting out a seam.
- Different fits run differently: Levi's offers multiple fits (501, 511, 505, 721, etc.), and each cut has slightly different proportions. A size W32 in the 501 may fit differently than a W32 in the 511 slim fit. Always check fit-specific sizing information on the product page before purchasing a new style.
- Rise and comfort: Levi's jeans are available in low, mid, and high rise options. Lower rise styles sit at or below the hip bone, whilst high rise styles sit at the natural waist. Measure where you naturally prefer to wear your jeans to ensure the rise height matches your comfort and style preferences.
- Try on in-store when possible: If you have access to a Levi's store or stockist, try on your intended size before ordering online. This allows you to test the fit of your chosen style and makes future online purchases more reliable.
- Review product photos and reviews: Customer reviews and detailed product photographs can reveal whether a specific item runs true to size, large, or small. Look for comments from other shoppers about fit and sizing to inform your decision.