Why Indian Clothes Don’t Fit Well in the US 

Blog Objectives

This blog explains to Indian Americans and South Asians the reasons behind ill-fitting ethnic clothing from India purchased online or while living in America. This blog highlights the actual causes behind ill-fitting ethnic clothing and provides effective solutions based on experience.

Key Takeaways

• The sizing systems used in India and the US differ completely — hence, conversions are not always possible.
• Dress fitting issues of Indian dresses in the USA may be caused by proportion differences rather than sizing issues.
• You must measure your body in inches or centimeters before buying anything online.
• Indian size to US size conversion in clothing must consider the bust, waist, hips, and length, not just one dimension.
• When purchasing from American sellers specializing in South Asian clothing, there are fewer chances of misfits.

Millions of South Asians shopping for Indian clothes online in the USA face the exact same challenge; however, it is seldom addressed clearly. The reality is that Indian clothing items were created based on a unique sizing system that doesn’t correlate to American sizing at all. If you have always felt guilty about “not being able to fit” ethnic clothing items, then this article will show you the truth. It’s not you; it’s the system!

Fortunately, at DesiClik, we understand that challenge. As an online retailer that brings authentic South Asian fashion to the US, DesiClik ensures you find the perfect fit by curating unique clothing options based on accurate sizes.

Why Don’t Indian Clothes Fit Right in the US?

The Indian ethnic wear has been developed according to the body size of the Indians living in various regions of India. The Americans may have some physical characteristics that may be different from the characteristics of the Indians in terms of shoulders, torso, waist, hips, and inseam.

In addition, the Indian clothing industry still relies on both centimeter measurement and the loose definitions of S, M, and L sizes, which leads to a lack of any standards. If you purchase Indian clothes online in the USA through the Internet, your size will be determined according to the standards relevant to buyers in Delhi or Mumbai.

Why Does Indian Clothing Size Differ from American Clothing Size?

There is no straightforward method for Indian size to US size conversion in clothing. Here is why:

• Absence of size standardization: There is no standardized sizing of the garments available from any of the brands manufacturing apparel in India. Thus, for instance, the ‘L’ in one particular garment will correspond to ‘XL’ in the other garment produced by a different brand.
• Centimeters vs. Inches: Indian outfits are measured according to centimeters compared to American outfits, which measure according to inches. The margin of error is taken into consideration when measuring Indian outfits.
• Body sizes are smaller: The traditional Indian wear, such as the kurta-pyjama or salwar suits, takes into consideration the fact that Indians have smaller body sizes.
• Body sizes are petite: The body sizes for outfits such as lehenga, dupatta, and palazzo pants are between 5’3″ to 5’5″.”
• Stretching Capacity and Other Differences: The materials that constitute Indian clothes differ greatly from American clothes. This is because Indian clothing materials are made up of silk, georgette, and cotton.

It is crucial to note that the process of Indian size to US size conversion in clothing entails consideration of all the aforementioned aspects.

How Do You Measure Your Indian Outfits Right in the US?

The best thing you can possibly do is to know about how to measure Indian outfits in the USA before pressing the “add to cart” button. Here’s how:

• Chest: Wrap the measuring tape all round your body at the fullest part of your chest, keeping it parallel to the ground.
• Waist: The tape should be placed around your waist at the level of your navel.
• Hips: Your hip circumference will be taken at its largest point, which would be 7-9 inches below the waist.
• Height/Length: Besides taking your height measurement, your upper body length can be measured if you intend to buy kurtas or long clothes.
• Width: Shoulders are one of the measurements that are most commonly neglected.

What Are the Most Common Fitting Problems With Indian Clothes in the USA?

The problems that arise from wearing Indian clothes in the USA include:

• Shoulders: Narrower shoulders are generally used in designing a kurta. In case of broader shoulders, you will find that the back part does not fit you well.
• Waist suits well, while hips do not: Generally, Indian garments have a lower differential between their waists and hips than their Western counterparts. Your hips may be larger than the waistline of an average American.
• Fitting problem regarding garment length: This fitting problem poses serious problems to the buyers because lehengas, kurtas, and dupattas do not conform to the measurements used in America. It is necessary for you to learn about how to measure Indian outfits in the USA.
• Distortion of fit as a result of the material used: The materials generally used in making Indian clothes include cotton, silk, and georgette. These materials contract upon washing and expand with heat exposure.

The Smart Approach to Buying Indian Ethnic Clothing in America

Instead of struggling against foreign sizing, try out these sensible approaches:

• Purchase from US-based South Asian clothing stores that cater to the average American body type.
• Opt for outfits that provide custom tailoring options during purchase.
• Seek feedback from US-based consumers, as they would give you an accurate assessment.
• Do not rely solely on the size mentioned on the outfit. Always measure yourself using the measuring chart.
• Leverage the return/exchange policy provided by the local store.

Your Perfect Fit

The size problems of Indian clothes in the USA may be real, but they can be sorted out. With proper self-measurements and good knowledge of the conversion process from Indian sizes to American sizes, along with reliable retailers who understand your personal lifestyle, your next ethnic outfit can be one that fits perfectly.

Enjoy the best of both worlds in terms of traditional South Asian style and elegant American style at DesiClik. No matter what you decide, whether it is for weddings or just a casual outing, DesiClik makes sure that you always feel your best when wearing your traditional wear.

FAQs:

1. Why are the Indian clothes small for my regular US size?

The Indian fashion brands run small and have a distinct way of calculating proportions. You should always opt for a size larger and take the measurements first.

2. Is there an accurate chart available that gives the US size to Indian size conversion for clothes?

There is no standard conversion chart available, and every brand has its own unique size guide, so it is best to always refer to the brand guide.

3. How do I properly measure my Indian garments in the USA?

Measure your bust, waist, hips, shoulder width, and full height in inches and refer to the brand’s sizing chart.

4. Is it possible to get the Indian clothing tailored after purchase in the USA?

Indian traditional wear is usually very easily tailorable. Getting clothes let out can sometimes become difficult.

5. What are the good websites available for buying Indian clothes in the USA?

South Asian online stores such as DesiClik provide more accurate sizing charts and policies for the diaspora community.