How this calculator works
Men's jeans are sold by waist and inseam in inches, written W and L. The waist size is the waist measurement in inches rounded to the nearest even number, and the length is the inseam in inches. Women's jeans use numbered sizes, which correspond to waist and hip ranges. If you measure a pair of jeans that fits, lay them flat, button the waistband and measure the waist edge to edge; double it for the circumference, because the flat measurement is only half the waist. The inseam is measured along the inside leg seam.
Formula
waist in inches = waist in cm / 2.54. men's W = waist in inches rounded to the nearest even number. men's L = inseam in inches rounded to the nearest whole number. jeans method: waist = 2 x flat waist width. women's size = the first chart row whose waist and hips both fit.
Worked example
A waist of 81 cm is 31.9 inches, which rounds to W32, and an 81 cm inseam is 31.9 inches, so L32. A pair of jeans with a flat waist of 41 cm has a waist of 82 cm, which also gives W32. A woman with an 81 cm waist and 100 cm hips is at the top of size 12.
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Frequently asked questions
Should I size up or down in jeans?
Start with the measurement size. Denim with stretch can feel looser after a day, while rigid denim relaxes less. If you are between sizes, the larger one is easier to wear with a belt, and the smaller one may strain at the seams.
How do I measure the inseam on jeans?
Lay the jeans flat and measure from the crotch seam to the bottom of the hem along the inside leg. Do not measure the outside seam; that is the outseam and it is longer.
Why is my jeans size different from my dress size?
Jeans sizing is based on the waist and hip, while dress sizing uses bust, waist and hip. Different makers also use different vanity sizing. The tape measure is more reliable than the number on the label.
Do women's jeans use odd sizes?
Some ranges do, but the chart here uses the even sizes 0 to 18, which are the most common in North America. If a brand uses odd sizes, its own chart will shift by one step; the waist and hip ranges are the better guide.