Nudie Jeans Size Guide
Nudie Jeans is a sustainable Swedish premium denim brand founded in Gothenburg in 2001, renowned for its unwavering commitment to 100% organic cotton, transparent circular production, and free lifetime repairs. With a philosophy rooted in ethical fashion and classic Scandinavian styling with a rebellious edge, Nudie Jeans creates denim that is designed to age gracefully, mould to your body, and tell your unique story over time. Their extensive range spans everything from ultra-skinny fits like Tight Terry to relaxed, workwear-inspired cuts like Tuff Tony, with both raw selvedge and stretch denim options available. Understanding Nudie’s sizing is essential, as their jeans vary significantly depending on the fabric type and cut — raw (dry) denim tends to run small initially and requires a break-in period, whilst stretch denim generally fits true to size. Whether you’re a devoted denim enthusiast or a conscious consumer seeking sustainably made jeans, this comprehensive size guide will help you find your perfect fit across all Nudie Jeans styles.
How to Measure
Getting accurate body measurements is the most important step towards finding your ideal Nudie Jeans fit. Follow these steps carefully for the best results:
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline where you would normally wear your jeans, keeping the tape comfortably snug but not tight. For the most accurate result, measure over bare skin or thin clothing. Stand relaxed and avoid pulling your stomach in.
- Hips: Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom, ensuring the tape measure remains parallel to the floor all the way around. This measurement is particularly important for women’s fits and for men choosing relaxed styles.
- Inside Leg (Inseam): Measure from the top of your inner thigh (crotch point) straight down to where you want the jeans to end — typically at the ankle bone. For best results, measure whilst wearing shoes similar to those you’ll wear with the jeans, or measure along the inside leg seam of an existing pair of well-fitting jeans laid flat.
- Rise: Measure from the centre of the crotch seam up to the top of the waistband on an existing pair of jeans that fit you well. This helps determine whether a low, mid, or high-rise Nudie style will suit your body shape and comfort preferences.
- Thigh: Lay your best-fitting jeans flat and measure across the thigh at the widest point, approximately 2 inches below the crotch seam, then double this measurement for the full circumference. This is crucial when choosing between slim and relaxed Nudie fits.
- Existing Jeans Method: The most reliable approach is to measure a pair of jeans you currently own that fit perfectly, then compare those flat measurements directly to Nudie’s product-specific size charts. Lay the jeans flat on a hard surface and measure the waistband edge to edge, then double for circumference.
Men’s Jeans Size Chart
Nudie Jeans for men are sized by waist measurement in inches. Most styles are available in waist sizes 28–40, with various inseam lengths. The table below shows the corresponding UK, EU, and international size conversions.
| Waist Size | UK Size | EU Size | Waist (inches) | Chest (inches) | Hips (inches) | Common Inseam Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 | XS | 44 | 28 | 34–36 | 34–35 | 30, 32, 34 |
| 29 | XS | 44 | 29 | 35–37 | 35–36 | 30, 32, 34 |
| 30 | S | 46 | 30 | 36–38 | 36–37 | 30, 32, 34 |
| 31 | S | 46 | 31 | 37–39 | 37–38 | 30, 32, 34 |
| 32 | M | 48 | 32 | 38–40 | 38–39 | 30, 32, 34, 36 |
| 33 | M | 48 | 33 | 39–41 | 39–40 | 30, 32, 34, 36 |
| 34 | L | 50 | 34 | 40–42 | 40–41 | 30, 32, 34, 36 |
| 36 | XL | 52 | 36 | 42–44 | 42–43 | 30, 32, 34, 36 |
| 38 | XXL | 54 | 38 | 44–46 | 44–45 | 32, 34, 36 |
| 40 | XXL | 56 | 40 | 46–48 | 46–47 | 32, 34, 36 |
Women’s Jeans Size Chart
Nudie Jeans for women are also sized by waist measurement in inches, typically ranging from 25 to 34. Women’s fits include styles such as Hightop Tilde (high-rise skinny) and Breezy Britt (wide leg). The table below provides UK, US, and EU conversions along with corresponding hip measurements.
| Waist Size | UK Size | US Size | EU Size | Waist (inches) | Hips (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | 6 | 2 | 34 | 25 | 35–36 |
| 26 | 8 | 4 | 36 | 26 | 36–37 |
| 27 | 10 | 6 | 38 | 27 | 37–38 |
| 28 | 10 | 6 | 38 | 28 | 38–39 |
| 29 | 12 | 8 | 40 | 29 | 39–40 |
| 30 | 12 | 8 | 40 | 30 | 40–41 |
| 31 | 14 | 10 | 42 | 31 | 41–42 |
| 32 | 16 | 12 | 44 | 32 | 42–43 |
| 33 | 16 | 12 | 44 | 33 | 43–44 |
| 34 | 18 | 14 | 46 | 34 | 44–45 |
Men’s Tops & Jackets Size Chart
Nudie Jeans also produces a range of t-shirts, shirts, sweatshirts, and denim jackets for men. These are typically sized using standard letter sizing (S–XXL).
| Size Label | UK Size | EU Size | Chest (inches) | Waist (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 34 | 44 | 34–36 | 28–29 |
| S | 36–38 | 46 | 36–38 | 30–31 |
| M | 38–40 | 48 | 38–40 | 32–33 |
| L | 40–42 | 50 | 40–42 | 34–35 |
| XL | 42–44 | 52 | 42–44 | 36–37 |
| XXL | 44–46 | 54 | 44–46 | 38–40 |
Nudie Jeans Fit Guide by Style
Nudie Jeans offers a wide variety of fits, each with distinct characteristics that affect how they size. Understanding the differences between cuts is just as important as knowing your waist measurement. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most popular Nudie Jeans fits for both men and women.
Men’s Fits
Tight Terry (Skinny): Skinny from hip to ankle with a mid-rise. Often available in stretch denim. This fit runs small, especially in dry (raw) fabrics. Best suited for slimmer builds who prefer a contemporary, close-fitting silhouette. If you’re between sizes, consider sizing up — particularly in 100% cotton versions.
Lean Dean (Slim Tapered): A mid-rise fit with a regular cut through the thigh that tapers from knee to ankle. Runs true to size in stretch denim but slightly tight in raw denim initially. This is Nudie’s most popular fit and is ideal for those wanting a modern slim look without being overly restrictive. The taper creates a clean, streamlined silhouette.
Grim Tim (Slim Straight): Mid-rise with a straight leg from hip to ankle. Available in both dry and stretch denim. Fits true to size with less taper than Lean Dean, making it better suited for those with broader thighs who still want a slim aesthetic. This is a versatile everyday fit.
Gritty Jackson (Regular Straight): A regular fit through the top block with a straight leg. Mid-rise with a classic, timeless silhouette. Based on flat measurements from retailers, a size 30 Gritty Jackson measures approximately 15.5″ across the waist (laid flat), with a 10.5″ rise, 11.5″ thigh, and 7″ ankle opening. This fit is true to size and works well for those who prefer a traditional straight-leg jean.
Steady Eddie II (Regular Tapered): Relaxed through the thigh with a slight taper towards the ankle and a higher back rise for added comfort. This fit runs slightly large through the seat and thigh, so if you prefer a neater look, you may wish to consider sizing down. Excellent for all-day comfort and a more relaxed aesthetic.
Tuff Tony (Loose Tapered): A relaxed, workwear-inspired fit with generous room through the seat and thigh, tapering towards the ankle. This cut runs oversized and boxy by design. If you prefer a more contained loose fit, consider sizing down one size. Ideal for those who favour a vintage, relaxed silhouette.
Women’s Fits
Hightop Tilde (High-Rise Skinny): A high-waisted skinny fit that sits above the natural waist and is snug from hip to ankle. This style tends to run small, particularly in raw denim. If you’re between sizes or prefer a comfortable fit from the first wear, consider sizing up. The stretch denim versions are more forgiving.
Breezy Britt (Wide Leg): A relaxed, wide-leg fit with a high rise. This style offers a more generous cut through the thigh and leg, providing a contemporary, flowing silhouette. Generally fits true to size at the waist.
Gritty Jackson — Detailed Flat Measurements
For those considering the popular Gritty Jackson regular straight fit, the following flat measurements (measured across, not circumference) provide a precise reference. These are based on actual garment measurements from stockists:
| Waist Size | Waist (flat, inches) | Rise (inches) | Thigh (flat, inches) | Ankle Opening (flat, inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | 15.5 | 10.5 | 11.5 | 7 |
| 31 | 16 | 10.5 | 12 | 7.5 |
| 32 | 16.5 | 11 | 12 | 7.5 |
| 34 | 17.5 | 11 | 12.5 | 8 |
| 36 | 18.5 | 11.5 | 13 | 8 |
Understanding Raw (Dry) Denim vs. Stretch Denim
One of the most important factors in Nudie Jeans sizing is the fabric type. Nudie is famous for their dry (raw) denim — jeans that have not been pre-washed or treated, meaning they arrive stiff and dark, and develop a unique patina, fading, and creasing pattern as you wear them in. Here’s what you need to know:
Raw (Dry) Denim: Typically 100% organic cotton with no elastane. These jeans will feel tight and rigid when new. Expect the waist to stretch approximately 0.5–1 inch during the first few weeks of regular wear, whilst the thighs and seat will also loosen slightly. It is generally recommended to buy your true waist size or even size down by one if you want a snug, moulded fit after break-in. The initial tightness is intentional and part of the Nudie experience.
Stretch Denim: Contains 1–2% elastane blended with organic cotton. These jeans fit true to size from the first wear and offer significantly more comfort and flexibility. They are more forgiving across the thigh and seat and are an excellent choice for first-time Nudie buyers or those who prefer immediate comfort without a break-in period.
Recycled Cotton Blends: Some styles, such as the Gritty Jackson, feature blends of organic and recycled cotton (e.g., 80% organic cotton, 20% recycled cotton). These rigid denims behave similarly to raw denim and will require some break-in time.
Inseam Length Guide
Nudie Jeans are typically available in multiple inseam lengths. The most common options are:
| Inseam Label | Length (inches) | Approximate Length (cm) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | 30 | 76 | Heights under 5’8″ / 173 cm |
| 32 | 32 | 81 | Heights 5’8″–5’11″ / 173–180 cm |
| 34 | 34 | 86 | Heights 5’11″–6’2″ / 180–188 cm |
| 36 | 36 | 91 | Heights over 6’2″ / 188 cm |
Note that not all waist sizes are available in every inseam length. Smaller waist sizes (28–31) are most commonly offered in 30, 32, and 34 inseams, whilst larger waist sizes (38–40) tend to be available in 32, 34, and 36 inseams.
Sizing Tips
- Raw denim runs small: If you’re purchasing dry (raw) denim for the first time, be prepared for initial tightness. The waist will stretch up to an inch with wear, but the length will not. Buy your true waist size and expect the jeans to mould to your body over 2–4 weeks of regular wear.
- Stretch denim fits true to size: If you prefer comfort from day one, opt for a stretch denim option. These fits contain 1–2% elastane and require no break-in period. They’re ideal for first-time Nudie buyers who are unsure about sizing.
- Size up for skinny fits in raw denim: Tight Terry and Hightop Tilde can feel especially snug in dry fabrics. If you’re between sizes or have muscular thighs, go up one waist size to ensure comfort.
- Size down for relaxed fits if you want a neater silhouette: Steady Eddie II and Tuff Tony are cut generously through the seat and thigh. If you prefer a tidier, less baggy look, consider dropping one waist size from your usual measurement.
- Measure your best-fitting jeans for comparison: The single most reliable method is to lay your favourite jeans flat and measure the waistband, rise, thigh, and leg opening, then compare these flat measurements directly against Nudie’s product-specific size data. This eliminates guesswork caused by differences between body measurements and garment measurements.
- Consider the rise when choosing a style: Nudie offers low, mid, and high-rise options. A mid-rise Lean Dean will sit differently on your body compared to a high-rise Steady Eddie II, even in the same waist size. Check the rise measurement to ensure the jean sits where you prefer.
- Nudie offers free lifetime repairs: Because their jeans are designed to be worn for years, don’t worry about minor thinning or wear — take advantage of Nudie’s free repair service at their stores and repair partners worldwide. This also means investing in the right size upfront is worthwhile, as these jeans are built to last.
- Wash sparingly to maintain fit: Nudie recommends washing your jeans as infrequently as possible, particularly raw denim. Washing can cause shrinkage of approximately 1–3% in length and may tighten the waist temporarily. When you do wash, turn them inside out and use a cold, gentle cycle.