When it comes to choosing clothes, finding the right size is essential to combine comfort and elegance. Whether you are looking for a tailored suit, a perfectly cut jean, or a t-shirt of the right length, understanding the size correspondences between brands and countries is a real advantage.

At Harold, a men's ready-to-wear boutique located in the Marais in Paris, we help you decode the subtleties of sizes for shopping without mistakes.

Understanding top and pants sizes

Top sizes vary depending on brands and countries of origin. Not always easy to navigate, but with some tips, you'll be ready to make the right choice. In store, our team is here to advise you and help you find the ideal size.

Top sizes

Finding a top in the right size is essential to combine comfort and style, whether it's a jacket, a t-shirt, or a sweater. To avoid any mistakes, it is important to understand the equivalences. Here are some tips:

• Chest circumference: measure around the widest part of the torso. 
• Compare with our size guide for tops.
• International sizes are expressed in letters (XS, S, M, L, XL).

Shirt sizes

If you buy a shirt abroad, you will notice that sizes can differ. Here is how converting them to French sizes :

Understanding the different sizes

Shirts are generally classified according to three systems:

• FR size: Based on neck circumference in centimeters (e.g., 39, 40, 41); 
• US / UK size: expressed in inches (14, 16, 18, ...);
• International size (S, M, L, etc.): More general and sometimes approximate.

Tip: If in doubt between two sizes, choose the larger one to avoid a collar that is too tight.

Pants and jeans sizes 

Pants sizes

To find the pants that will fit you perfectly, it is essential to take your measurements correctly. Here are the two main measurements to know:

• Waist circumference: To measure it, place a measuring tape around the narrowest part of your waist, just above the navel. Make sure the tape is level and not too tight. Depending on your preference, adjust the height of the measurement if you wear your pants high-waisted or low-waisted.
• The leg length: measure the inseam (where your legs meet) down to the ankle. If you are between two sizes, choose the longer length for more comfort.

Jean sizes 

About jean sizes and cuts, there are two measurement systems: the French system, which is based only on the width of the jean, and the American system, which takes into account both the length (L) and the width (W) of the jean.

To take your measurement, it is similar to measuring for pants: you need to measure your waist circumference. Place the tape measure horizontally at the narrowest part of your waist. Depending on how you prefer to wear your jeans – whether high-waisted or low-waisted – you can adjust the measurement to the height that suits you best.

At Harold, we have carefully selected for you jeans from the brand Selected, combining comfort and timeless style.

Know your size well for shoes and accessories

To choose your shoes, gloves, or belt, we recommend trying them on. Without this, your purchase can be risky, especially if you don’t know your exact size. Here is a simple guide to choose well:

Finding the right shoe size

It is essential to measure your feet properly to avoid rubbing:

• Place your foot on a sheet of paper, heel against a wall, and mark the end of the longest toe.
• Measure the distance between the wall and the mark, then compare with a size conversion chart.
• Warning, some brands size differently: check their recommendations before buying.

Choosing the right glove size

Well-fitting gloves offer optimal comfort, especially in winter or for specific activities:

• Wrap a tape measure around your hand, excluding the thumb.
  
• Note the measurement in centimeters and refer to standard sizes (S, M, L…).
  
• Prefer a slightly fitted size for better grip.

Determining your belt size

A well-chosen belt is both aesthetic and comfortable:

• Measure your waist circumference where you usually wear your belt.
• If you use your trouser size, add about 10 to 15 cm to get the ideal size.
• Check the correspondence between belt size (85, 90, 95... cm) and the sizing system used (international or FR).

Knowing your exact measurements will help you avoid mistakes and shop with confidence!

Suit size guide 

When buying a suit, it is essential to understand size conversion to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Here is a detailed guide to help you choose correctly.

Suit jackets

Suit jacket sizes can be expressed in Italian sizes or French sizes. For example, a size 40 in France generally corresponds to a size 48 in Italy. Here is a conversion chart:

At Harold, all suit sizes follow the Italian sizing system. We offer a wide selection of Selected suits, as well as Drykorn and Les Deux.

Suit Trousers & Blazers

The suit trousers follow the same conversions as the blazers, but their more relaxed cut sometimes allows juggling between two sizes depending on the desired effect. If you want a fitted look, especially for special events like weddings or business meetings, where a perfect fit is essential, take your exact converted size. For a looser style, one size up may be suitable.

Tip: Always check the manufacturer's size guide, as some Italian brands may size differently.

Conclusion: Find the ideal size at Harold

Whether you buy in store or online, knowing your size well will help you choose perfectly fitting clothes. At Harold, we offer you personalized support to guide you towards pieces that match your style and your body shape.

Visit our store at 32 rue des Blancs Manteaux, Paris to benefit from our advice and discover our curated selection of men's clothing.

Do you have doubts about a size? Contact us or come see us in store!