Italian shopping is easier when you treat size conversion as a starting point, not a promise. Labels can differ between regions, but cut, fabric and brand sizing matter just as much as the number.
Use the comparisons below to find a fitting-room starting size, then check the brand’s own chart whenever it is available.
Women’s clothing sizes
Italian women’s clothing numbers are commonly four higher than the corresponding EU label. A UK 10 or US 6 often points to an Italian 42, for example.
| US | UK | EU | Italy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 6 | 34 | 38 |
| 4 | 8 | 36 | 40 |
| 6 | 10 | 38 | 42 |
| 8 | 12 | 40 | 44 |
| 10 | 14 | 42 | 46 |
| 12 | 16 | 44 | 48 |
Lettered sizes such as S, M and L are less consistent. Use measurements rather than assuming that one brand’s medium matches another.
Men’s clothing sizes
Italian and EU jacket sizes often use the same number. UK and US suit sizing may use a chest number around ten lower.
| US / UK jacket | EU / Italy |
|---|---|
| 36 | 46 |
| 38 | 48 |
| 40 | 50 |
| 42 | 52 |
| 44 | 54 |
Trouser sizing may use waist measurements, Italian numeric sizes or brand-specific labels. Look for a measurement chart on the garment page or ask shop staff for help.
Women’s shoe sizes
Italian footwear generally follows EU sizing. Half-size steps and conversions vary, especially around the edges of a brand’s range.
| US | UK | EU / Italy |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 3 | 35.5 |
| 6 | 4 | 37 |
| 7 | 5 | 38 |
| 8 | 6 | 39 |
| 9 | 7 | 40.5 |
| 10 | 8 | 42 |
Men’s shoe sizes
| US | UK | EU / Italy |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 40 |
| 8 | 7 | 41 |
| 9 | 8 | 42 |
| 10 | 9 | 43 |
| 11 | 10 | 44.5 |
| 12 | 11 | 46 |
Get a better fit
Measure both feet late in the day, when they may be slightly larger. Use the larger measurement and compare it with the brand’s centimetre chart. For clothing, compare your body measurement with the chart rather than measuring a stretchy garment.
Fabric changes fit. A rigid tailored jacket has less room for error than a relaxed knit. Shoe shape matters too: two pairs marked 39 can feel different if one has a narrow toe box.
When buying online, read the return terms before ordering. When shopping in person, take your normal size plus one nearby size into the fitting room.
The Italy size converter gives you a quick four-region comparison. For ideas on what is useful to buy or pack, read the simple Italy dress guide.
No conversion table can guarantee fit. Brand information and trying the garment remain the most reliable checks.
Frequently asked questions
Are Italian sizes the same as EU sizes?
Shoe sizes usually follow the EU system, while Italian women’s clothing labels often use numbers four sizes higher than the corresponding EU label. Always check the brand chart.
Should I size up in Italian clothing?
Not automatically. Italian cuts can feel closer to the body, but fit differs by brand and garment. Compare measurements or try the item on.
What if my size falls between two conversions?
Try both nearby sizes and judge the garment’s intended fit. For online purchases, use the brand’s measurement chart and return policy.