How to Tell If You’re Buying the Right Size — Your Guide to a Perfect

Choosing the right size isn’t just about numbers on a tag — it’s about feeling confident, comfortable, and truly you in what you wear. While our friends and family may help shape our style, knowing how a garment should fit is the key to building a wardrobe you love.

And after years of helping women (and plenty of men!) find their perfect fit, I can tell you: most people misjudge their size without even realizing it.

Here are the essential tips to help you choose the right size every time.

1. Start With the Shoulders — Your #1 Fit Indicator

If you look at only one thing when trying on a top, make it the shoulder seams.

✔ For a relaxed, casual vibe

The seam can fall slightly past your natural shoulder line. This gives that effortless drape and laid-back look — especially with dolmans, modal tops, and soft knits.

✔ For a tailored, classic look

The seam should land exactly at the edge of your shoulder. This creates clean lines, structure, and a polished silhouette.

Most sizing mistakes start here — if the shoulders are off, the whole fit feels off.

2. Let Go of the “It Will Shrink” Myth

We’ve all heard someone say:

“I buy a size up because it shrinks in the wash.”

But here’s the truth:

Most modern fabrics — especially modal, rayon blends, bamboo, and high-quality knits — are engineered to hold their shape. Shrinkage usually happens because of how the garment is washed and dried, not because of poor design.

✔ Practical care habits that protect your fit:

• Wash in cold water to prevent fiber tightening

• Skip high-heat drying — it breaks down stretch fibers

• Use gentle cycles for anything soft, drapey, or premium

• Air-dry flat when possible (especially knits) to avoid stretching

• Avoid hanging heavy or stretchy tops while wet — it can distort the shape

• Turn items inside out to preserve color and fabric texture

The right care keeps the size and fit you chose — without needing to size up “just in case.”

3. Know Your Fit Preferences

Some days you want something fitted and feminine. Other days, a classic unisex cut just feels right.

Both are valid — and both require different sizing expectations.

Fitted Styles

• Hit at the top of the hip

• Contour the waist and bust

• Great for layering or dressing up

Relaxed / Unisex Styles

• Slightly more room in the shoulders

• Straight fit through the body

• Look best when tailored, not overly oversized

Knowing what look you’re aiming for helps you size with intention.

4. Let’s Talk Jeans — The Most Misunderstood Fit

The perfect jeans should make you feel unstoppable, not uncomfortable.

Here’s the truth:

Jeans should feel slightly snug in the store. Not painfully tight — just a little firm.

Why?

Jean fabric naturally relaxes as you wear it and rebounds after washing. So that “snug but not suffocating” fit is actually the sweet spot.

A good test:

• Button them while standing (it might take a tiny inhale — normal!)

• Wear them around the house for two hours

• They should mold to your body and feel like your jeans

And yes — take a moment to admire how they hug the legs and rear. A good fit is worth celebrating.

5. The Sit Test — Your Ultimate Fit Check

Before committing to a pair of jeans, sit down in a chair.

Ask yourself:

• Can you sit comfortably?

• Can you cross your legs without digging or pinching?

• Do they pull or restrict movement?

If you’re fighting your jeans while sitting, go up a size.

Other red flags:

• Extra fabric bunching in the crotch

• You can slide a hand down the side on the first try

• Gaps at the lower back or waist (These signs usually mean you need a smaller size.)

6. And When You Shop with Us… You Don’t Have to Guess

One of the things I take pride in at Alex’s Boutique is choosing pieces that offer true sizing — consistent fits, beautiful fabrics, and silhouettes that flatter real bodies.

We check cuts, fabrics, drape, stretch, and construction so you don’t have to. With us, “Will this fit me?” becomes a whole lot easier.

Want a Personalized Fit Recommendation?

Message me anytime — I love helping customers find their perfect size. A great fit is confidence you can wear.