Australian Clothing Size Conversion: The Complete Guide for AU Shoppers

How Australian Clothing Sizes Work

If you've ever tried to shop from an Australian brand or convert your existing sizes to AU measurements, you've probably noticed that Australian sizing doesn't follow the same conventions as the US, UK, or European systems. Understanding these differences is essential whether you're an Australian shopping internationally or an overseas buyer eyeing brands like Country Road, Gorman, or Cotton On.

Australian women's clothing sizes typically use even numbers starting from 4, which roughly corresponds to an XXS. The numbering runs 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, and beyond. This system is most similar to UK sizing — in fact, AU and UK women's sizes are identical in most cases. However, there's a consistent 4-size difference between AU and US women's sizes.

Women's Size Conversion Table

Here's the fundamental conversion you need to know:

The quick rule: Subtract 4 from your AU size to get your US size. An AU 10 is a US 6, an AU 14 is a US 10, and so on.

Men's Size Differences

Australian men's sizing is less confusing than women's, but there are still important differences to note. For casual clothing (t-shirts, sweaters, jackets), Australian brands generally use the same S/M/L/XL system as the US. However, the actual measurements can vary.

Australian men's clothing tends to have a slightly more relaxed fit compared to American brands, reflecting different body shape averages. A medium in an Australian brand like R.M. Williams may have slightly more room through the chest and shoulders than a US medium from, say, Gap.

For dress shirts, Australian collar sizes are measured in centimetres rather than inches. To convert: multiply the inch measurement by 2.54. A US 15.5" collar equals approximately 39cm in Australian sizing.

Australian Shoe Sizes

Shoe sizing is where things get particularly tricky:

Women's shoes:

• AU women's shoe sizes are 2 sizes larger than US women's sizes
• An AU 7 in women's shoes = US 5
• Some Australian brands are now adopting US sizing, so always check

Men's shoes:

• AU and UK men's shoe sizes are the same
• AU/UK men's sizes are 1 size smaller than US men's sizes
• An AU 9 in men's shoes = US 10

Tips for Shopping Australian Brands Online

1. Always check the brand's own size chart — Australian brands like Zimmermann, Spell & The Gypsy, and Aje often have unique proportions that don't perfectly match the standard AU conversion.

1. Pay attention to fabric composition. Australian brands frequently use linen and cotton blends suited for warmer climates. These natural fibres can shrink 3-5% after the first wash, so factor this into your size choice.

1. Read reviews from buyers in your region. Many online stores now show the reviewer's usual size and location, which gives you real-world conversion data.

1. When in doubt, size up. Australian brands — especially designer labels — tend to run on the smaller side compared to American mass-market brands. If you're between sizes, the larger size is usually the safer bet.

1. Check the return policy before ordering internationally. Shipping returns from overseas can be expensive, so it's worth getting your size right the first time.

For instant conversions between Australian and other sizing systems, try our Size Converter tool — it supports AU sizes across all major clothing categories.