The Ultimate Chanel Dress Size Guide: What You Need to Know Before Buying Preloved
When it comes to timeless elegance, few fashion houses rival Chanel. From tweed jackets to little black dresses, Chanel has long mastered the art of luxury ready-to-wear. But while buying a Chanel dress preloved is a smart, sustainable investment, it can be daunting when it comes to sizing—especially since Chanel doesn’t follow typical U.S. or U.K. conventions, and vintage pieces often run differently from modern designs.
Whether you're eyeing a 1990s Karl Lagerfeld-era sheath or a recent runway stunner, this Chanel dress size guide will help you make the right fit choice.
Why Chanel Dress Sizing Can Be Tricky
Chanel uses French sizing, which differs from U.S. and U.K. measurements, in contrast to fast-fashion stores that use standardised sizing. Furthermore, Chanel occasionally omits size tags, particularly from runway samples and vintage couture. Finding your fit becomes both an art and a science when you take into account how sizing standards have changed over the years.
Common Sizing Challenges:
- Chanel labels use French (FR) numbers like 34, 36, 38, etc.
- Fit varies by collection and year.
- Vintage Chanel often runs smaller than modern.
- Fabric and cut—especially tweed or fitted silhouettes—can dramatically affect how a piece feels on the body.
Chanel Size Conversion Chart: French to U.S./U.K.
Vintage Chanel vs. Modern Chanel: The Sizing Shift
The standards of fashion have changed. By today's standards, what was a standard size 38 in the 1980s frequently fits more like a 34 or 36.
Key Differences:
Vintage Chanel (prior to 2000): frequently smaller, particularly around the waist and bust.
Modern Chanel (2000+): Has more stretch-friendly textiles and tends to be more in line with current FR sizing.
Pieces of couture: These can be custom-made and deviate from any typical chart.
Consider sizing up or verifying the seller's measurements if you're purchasing a vintage Chanel dress.
How to Measure Yourself for a Chanel Dress
Knowing your precise measurements is essential before deciding on a pre-owned item. Wear light clothing and use a soft measuring tape.
1. Bust:
Measure around the fullest part of your chest while keeping the tape snug but not tight.
2. Waist:
Find your natural waistline—typically the narrowest part of your torso—and wrap the tape measure around.
3. Hips:
Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and rear.
4. Shoulders & Length (optional but helpful):
These can be useful when buying structured or midi-length dresses.
The Fabric Factor: Fit Varies by Material
Different fabrics can impact how a dress fits:
| Fabric | Fit Notes |
|---|---|
| Tweed | Structured, little to no stretch. It can feel tight if sized wrong. |
| Jersey | Soft, stretchy, forgiving on fit. |
| Crepe | Lightweight with some drape; fit depends on cut. |
| Silk | Luscious but delicate—often tailored slim with no give. |
Buying Chanel Dresses Online: Fit Tips
Shopping online for preloved Chanel dresses? Here’s how to improve your chances of a perfect fit:
Ask for Exact Measurements
- Don’t rely on the size tag alone.
- Ask for bust, waist, hips, length, and shoulder width.
Compare to Your Best-Fitting Dress
- Measure a dress you already own and love.
- Compare those numbers to the listing measurements.
Check Return Policies
- Some preloved stores (like Miloura) offer flexible returns—others may not.
Consider Tailoring
- Chanel dresses are expertly constructed and often worth altering for the perfect fit.
Why Chanel Dresses Are Worth the Extra Fit Effort
Chanel dresses—especially those from the Karl Lagerfeld era or exclusive runway collections—are investment pieces. Their timeless silhouettes, impeccable tailoring, and rich heritage make them collector’s items. When you find the right fit, it transforms from just a dress into a lifelong wardrobe signature.
Buying preloved allows you to:
- Access rare pieces no longer in production.
- Reduce environmental waste through a circular fashion.
- Invest wisely—many pieces retain or increase in value.
FAQs
Does Chanel run small or large?
Chanel typically runs true to French sizing, which is smaller than U.S. standards. Many shoppers find it runs a half-size small, especially in vintage or tailored pieces.
What is a Chanel size 38 in U.S. sizing?
A French size 38 is roughly a U.S. size 6, depending on fabric and era.
Are Chanel dresses true to size?
Generally, yes, for modern pieces. However, vintage Chanel may run smaller, particularly in the bust and waist.
How do I size for a Chanel tweed dress?
Tweed is non-stretch and can be snug. If you're between sizes, go up one and consider tailoring for a better fit.
Can I alter a Chanel dress?
Yes—Chanel dresses are well-constructed and can typically be altered, especially if you’re sizing down. For sizing up, consult a tailor about seam allowance.
What if the dress has no size label?
Request full measurements from the seller. Many vintage or couture pieces don’t have tags, especially if custom-made.
Should I buy a preloved Chanel dress without trying it on?
Yes, if you:
- Get exact measurements
- Understand the fabric and fit
- Buy from a reputable seller with good return policies
