What to Do When Between Jumpsuit Sizes

Why falling between sizes is normal

Size ranges have gaps at their edges, so many people land between two sizes on bust, waist or hips. A jumpsuit makes this more likely, because it must fit three areas at once, and each area can point to a different size. Landing between sizes is not a measuring error, it is a normal result of graded sizing.

The fix is to choose by the area that is hardest to fit and by the fabric. A firm fabric cannot stretch to cover a tight hip, while a stretchy fabric can. A short torso cannot be fixed by a larger size letter, while a loose waist can be belted. Knowing which problem is fixable tells you which size to try first.

When to size up

Size up when the fabric is firm and woven with little or no stretch, because that fabric will not give if the smaller size is tight. Size up when the smaller size pulls at the crotch, strains across the bust, or restricts sitting, because those signs point to a real shortage of length or width, not to a preference.

Size up also when you want a relaxed fit, when the jumpsuit has a defined waist that you can belt, and when the larger size still looks neat at the shoulders. A larger size with a belt often fits better than a smaller size that pulls, because the belt fixes the waist while the extra length fixes the torso.

When to size down

Size down when the fabric is a very stretchy jersey that will give with wear, because the smaller size will still move with you and will look neater at the waist and shoulders. Size down when the larger size sags at the crotch, gaps at the neckline or slides off the shoulders, because those are signs of too much length and width.

Size down also when you want a fitted look and the smaller size still lets you sit, walk and bend without pulling. Try the smaller size with the shoes you plan to wear and test the four moves, walk, sit, bend and raise your arms, before you decide it is the right one.

Let torso length break the tie

If the two sizes differ mainly in torso length, pick the size whose torso matches yours, even if the bust or waist is a little loose. A waist that is a little loose can be belted or taken in, but a torso that is too short will pull at the crotch every time you sit, and a torso that is too long will sag no matter how good the bust fits.

If neither size matches your torso, look for a tall or petite version of the same jumpsuit, or try a different brand cut for your torso length. When returns are free, order both sizes, try both at home, and keep the one that passes the movement test, not the one that looks best standing still in the mirror.