Step 1 — How to Measure Yourself for Hanfu
Hanfu sizing is based on three measurements: bust, waist, and hips. These are the same measurements used for all clothing, but the technique matters — an incorrect measurement by even 2cm can mean the difference between a perfect fit and a dress that pulls at the bust.
Bust — Around the Fullest Part of Your Chest
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it parallel to the floor. Do not pull the tape tight — it should sit snugly but not compress. Measure in centimeters. Take the measurement twice and use the larger number.
✦ For hanfu specifically: bust is the most critical measurement. The crossed-collar construction is most affected by bust size. If you are between sizes, always size for your bust.Waist — At Your Natural Waist
Find your natural waist — the narrowest point of your torso, typically 1-2 inches above your belly button. Wrap the tape around this point, keeping it parallel to the floor. Do not suck in — measure your natural, relaxed waist.
✦ Hanfu is worn high-waisted. Your natural waist measurement determines where the skirt sits and how the silhouette falls.Hips — Around the Fullest Part
Stand with your feet together. Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips and seat, typically 7-9 inches below your natural waist. Keep the tape parallel to the floor. This is usually the widest point of your lower body.
✦ For Ma Mian Skirts and full hanfu sets: hip measurement determines whether the skirt will wrap correctly and whether the pleats will fall properly.Height — For Skirt and Dress Length
Hanfu is designed for a specific length — typically floor-length or ankle-length. If you are significantly taller or shorter than 165cm (5'5"), note your height when contacting the brand. Many quality brands can adjust hem length on request.
✦ Western women who are 5'8" or taller should specifically ask about length — standard hanfu sizing assumes a height of approximately 160-165cm.Step 2 — How Chinese Hanfu Sizes Convert to Western Bodies
This is where most Western women get confused — and where most sizing mistakes happen. Chinese clothing sizing uses different conventions than Western sizing, and the S/M/L/XL labels on hanfu do not correspond to Western S/M/L/XL.
| Hanfu Label | Bust (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hips (cm) | Approx. US Size | Approx. UK Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | 82–86 | 64–68 | 88–92 | US 2–4 | UK 6–8 |
| M | 86–90 | 68–72 | 92–96 | US 4–6 | UK 8–10 |
| L | 90–94 | 72–76 | 96–100 | US 6–8 | UK 10–12 |
| XL | 94–98 | 76–80 | 100–104 | US 8–10 | UK 12–14 |
| XXL | 98–102 | 80–84 | 104–108 | US 10–12 | UK 14–16 |
| XXXL | 102–106 | 84–88 | 108–112 | US 12–14 | UK 16–18 |
| 4XL | 106–112 | 88–94 | 112–118 | US 14–16 | UK 18–20 |
Note: This table shows general hanfu sizing conventions. Always check the specific brand's size chart — quality brands that sell internationally often adjust their sizing for Western bodies and may use different measurements than this general guide.
Step 3 — Sizing for Your Body Type
Bust Larger Than Hips
Hips Larger Than Bust
Taller Than 170cm (5'7")
Petite (Under 160cm / 5'3")
Step 4 — The One Rule That Prevents Every Sizing Problem
"When in doubt, size up. Hanfu is designed with ease — a slightly larger size drapes beautifully. A size too small pulls at the bust and ruins the silhouette. You can always tie the waist tighter. You cannot make a too-small dress larger."
This rule eliminates the majority of hanfu sizing problems. Hanfu is not designed to be body-con or fitted — it is designed to drape. The crossed-collar construction, the flowing sleeves, the pleated skirts — all of these are designed with ease built in. A size larger than your measurements suggest will almost always look better than a size smaller.
The only exception: if you are ordering a structured hanfu jacket or a fitted qipao-style garment, sizing more precisely to your measurements is appropriate. For flowing hanfu dresses and Ma Mian Skirts, always size up when in doubt.
Shop Hanfu at Olive Girl — With Personal Sizing Advice
Every Olive Girl order comes with personal sizing support. Email us your bust, waist, and hip measurements before you order — we will recommend the right size within 24 hours. If the size we recommend doesn't fit, we cover the exchange. No sizing guesswork. No surprises.
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Shop NowHow do I find my hanfu size as a Western woman?
Measure your bust, waist, and hips in centimeters. Compare to the brand's specific size chart — not generic Chinese size labels. When in doubt, size up. Email the brand your measurements before ordering — reputable brands will recommend the right size within 24 hours.
Do hanfu sizes run small for Western women?
Yes — generic Chinese hanfu sizing runs 2-3 sizes smaller than Western sizing. A Western size 8 (US) typically corresponds to a Chinese XL or XXL. Always use your measurements in centimeters and compare to the brand's actual size chart, not S/M/L labels.
What measurements do I need for hanfu?
Three measurements: (1) Bust — around the fullest part of your chest. (2) Waist — around your natural waist, the narrowest point. (3) Hips — around the fullest part, typically 7-9 inches below your waist. Measure in centimeters. Bust is the most critical measurement for hanfu.
What if I am between hanfu sizes?
Always size up. Hanfu is designed with ease — a slightly larger size drapes beautifully. A size too small pulls at the bust and ruins the silhouette. If your bust and hips are different sizes, size for your largest measurement.
What if I am taller than average?
Standard hanfu sizing assumes a height of 160-165cm (5'3"–5'5"). If you are taller, the dress will be shorter than intended. Contact the brand before ordering to ask about length options. Always mention your height when requesting sizing advice.
Does Olive Girl offer sizing advice before I order?
Yes. Email us your bust, waist, and hip measurements before you order — we recommend the right size within 24 hours. If the size we recommend doesn't fit, we cover the exchange. No sizing guesswork, no surprises.
Not Sure About Your Size? Ask Us First.
Email your measurements. We recommend the right size within 24 hours. Exchanges covered if we get it wrong.
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