Let’s be real—shopping for clothes online can feel like a gamble. You see something cute, you cross your fingers, pick your usual size, and hope for the best. But when it shows up? Sometimes it fits like a glove... and sometimes it feels like it was made for someone else entirely.
So why does this happen?
The Great Sizing Mystery
One of the biggest frustrations in online shopping is that sizes can differ wildly from brand to brand. A size 10 in one label might fit like a size 6 in another, and don’t even get us started on “S/M/L” sizing—it’s not always helpful, especially when the cut, fabric, and fit vary so much.
There’s no universal sizing standard that all brands stick to. Each company creates its own size chart based on its ideal customer fit, style, and target market. That’s why a “medium” in one store may feel more like an “extra small” or a “large” somewhere else.
Shopping secondhand or vintage adds another layer of complexity—clothing can shrink, stretch, or change shape over time depending on the fabric and how it was cared for. A cotton dress that once fit like a glove might now cling or sag in unexpected places. So even if the tag says your size, the fit might tell a different story.
The Influence of Vanity Sizing
One factor that contributes to the variation in sizes is vanity sizing. Many brands engage in vanity sizing, where they label larger garments with smaller sizes to boost the customer's self-esteem. This practice can lead to confusion and frustration when trying to determine the right size.
Banana Republic Sloan Skinny Fit Ankle Jeans Size 6
Size 6, 32" Waist
Quality of Materials
The quality of materials used in the construction of a garment can also impact how it fits. Different fabrics have varying degrees of stretch and drape, which can affect the overall fit and comfort of the clothing. A medium size made from a stretchy material may fit differently than a medium size made from a non-stretch fabric.
D. Jeans High Waist Skinny Jeans Size 8 - NWT
Size 8, 30" Waist
The Online Shopping Struggle
When you’re shopping in-store, it’s easy to grab a few sizes, head to the fitting room, and figure out what works. But online? You don’t have that luxury. It’s hard to know what’s going to feel great on your body just from looking at a model or a flat-lay photo.
This is where the frustration builds: You want to shop confidently, without needing to second-guess every single order.
It’s Just A Number
So, is a medium really a medium? The answer is not as straightforward as one might think. Finding the right fit shouldn’t feel like solving a mystery. While sizing inconsistencies may always exist across brands, knowing what to look for—and where to find that info—can make all the difference. The next time you're shopping for apparel, remember that the size on the tag is just a number and focus on finding the perfect fit for your unique body shape.
At Fred & Lala’s Finds, we get it—shopping online can be tricky, especially with secondhand pieces where sizing might not match what’s on the tag. That’s why we provide detailed sizing information with every item, including the exact fabric type and key measurements like inseam, rise, and shoulder width.
Used clothing can shrink, stretch, or shift shape over time, so accurate measurements are crucial to help you shop with confidence and avoid surprises. We’re here to make your experience as smooth as possible—because when you look good and feel good in what you’re wearing, that’s a true win.
We know how important it is to feel great in your clothes—and that starts with the right fit. So browse with confidence, knowing we’ve got your back (and waist, and shoulders!).
Happy thrifting!