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Shopping for clothes in a foreign country or online from a foreign brand can be quite a daunting task due to the different sizing systems used around the world. Italy, being a global fashion hub, attracts a lot of shoppers both online and offline. However, the Italian sizing system is different from the US sizing system. This comprehensive guide will help you convert Italian sizes to US sizes for a hassle-free shopping experience.

1. Understanding the Italian Sizing System

The Italian sizing system for clothes and shoes is based on the European sizing system. However, it has its own specificities which can sometimes cause confusion. For instance, Italian sizes are usually smaller than US sizes.

2. Women’s Clothing Sizes

Let’s start by comparing Italian women’s clothing sizes with US sizes.

Italian Size	46	48	50	52	54	56	58
US Size	8	10	12	14	16	18	20

Generally speaking, to convert an Italian size to a US size, you can add 4-6 to the Italian size. For example, an Italian size 46 would roughly translate to a US size 10.

3. Men’s Clothing Sizes

For men’s clothing, the Italian sizes are again smaller when compared to US sizes.

Italian Size	46	48	50	52	54	56	58
US Size	36	38	40	42	44	46	48

For men, to convert an Italian size to a US size, you usually add 10. So, an Italian size 50 would roughly be a US size 40.

4. Shoe Sizes

Italian shoe sizes are also different from US sizes.

Women’s Shoe Sizes:

Italian Size	35	36	37	38	39	40	41
US Size	5	6	6.5	7.5	8.5	9	10

Men’s Shoe Sizes:

Italian Size	39	40	41	42	43	44	45
US Size	6	7	8	9	10	11	12

To convert Italian shoe sizes to US sizes, you can simply add 30 to the Italian size for men and 35 for women.

5. Kids’ Clothing Sizes

Kids’ clothing sizes can also be converted from Italian to US sizes.

Italian Size	74	80	86	92	98	104	110
US Size	9M	12M	18M	2T	3T	4T	5T

For kids, you can add 36 to the Italian size to get the equivalent US size.

Here are some handy rules to help people make good approximations when converting Italian sizes to US sizes:

1. Women’s Clothing:
   • General Rule: Add 4-6 to the Italian size to get the equivalent US size.
   • Example: Italian size 46 + 4 = US size 10 (approx.)
2. Men’s Clothing:
   • General Rule: Add 10 to the Italian size to get the equivalent US size.
   • Example: Italian size 50 + 10 = US size 40 (approx.)
3. Women’s Shoes:
   • General Rule: Add 35 to the Italian size to get the equivalent US size.
   • Example: Italian size 35 + 35 = US size 5 (approx.)
4. Men’s Shoes:
   • General Rule: Add 30 to the Italian size to get the equivalent US size.
   • Example: Italian size 39 + 30 = US size 6 (approx.)
5. Kids’ Clothing:
   • General Rule: Add 36 to the Italian size to get the equivalent US size.
   • Example: Italian size 74 + 36 = US size 9 months (approx.)

Please note the following tips while shopping:

• Brands may vary: Different brands may have slightly different sizing, so it’s always a good idea to check the brand’s own size guide.
• Body Shape: Consider your own body shape. Italian sizes are generally tailored for a more slender build, so if you have a curvier or more athletic build, you may need to go a size up.
• Preference: Consider your own preference for how you like clothes to fit. Italian clothing tends to be more fitted, so if you prefer a looser fit, you may want to go a size up.
• Always Check Returns Policy: Before making a purchase, especially online, always check the store’s return and exchange policy.

Remember, these rules are just guidelines and actual sizes may vary slightly between different brands and types of clothing. It’s always best to try on clothes or shoes whenever possible, or measure yourself and check the brand’s own size guide if shopping online.

Converting Italian sizes to US sizes can be a bit tricky due to the difference in sizing systems. However, with the help of this guide and the tables provided, you can easily convert Italian sizes to US sizes for a seamless shopping experience. Remember, these conversions are just a guideline and it is always recommended to try the clothes or shoes on or check the brand’s own size guide before making a purchase. Happy shopping!