Date: 22 Aug 2025
Finding the perfect pair of jeans online may sound simple – you like the model, add it to your cart, and wait for delivery. But the most common question that stops customers is: “Will the size fit me?”
The good news is that with a little preparation and knowledge, you can avoid disappointment and find jeans that fit as if they were tailored just for you. In this article, we’ll show you how to measure yourself correctly, what the sizes mean, how the cut and fabric matter, and which are the most common mistakes when choosing jeans online.
Why choosing jeans online is a challenge
Shopping online saves time and effort, but with jeans there’s often a dilemma. The reason is simple: jeans are a garment that needs to fit perfectly – not only at the waist, but also at the hips, thighs, and length.
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Different brands use different standards – EU 38 may be the same on the label but different in centimeters.
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The fabric changes the feel – stretchy jeans are often more forgiving than those made of 100% cotton.
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The cut has a different effect on the figure – skinny, slim fit, mom fit, straight, wide leg – every model looks different, even in the same size.
How to measure yourself correctly
The most reliable way to find your size is to use a measuring tape. Here’s how:
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Waist – measure around the narrowest part, slightly above the navel. If you want high-waisted jeans, measure a bit higher.
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Hips – measure the widest part, usually across the buttocks.
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Thigh – for tight models, measure the circumference of the thigh at its widest point.
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Inseam length – from the crotch down to the ankle.
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Rise (waist height) – low, mid, or high rise – choose according to your preference.
Tip: measure over thin clothing or underwear and don’t pull the tape too tightly.
What EU sizes mean
In Bulgaria and most of Europe, standard EU sizes are used: 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, and up. These are simply codes that show whether the jeans are smaller (36), medium (38–40), or larger (42–44).
For easier orientation:
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EU 36 usually equals XS (fits waist ~66–68 cm and hips ~90–92 cm).
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EU 38 equals S (waist ~70–72 cm, hips ~94–96 cm).
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EU 40 equals M (waist ~74–76 cm, hips ~98–100 cm).
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EU 42 equals L (waist ~78–80 cm, hips ~102–104 cm).
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EU 44 equals XL (waist ~82–84 cm, hips ~106–108 cm).
These numbers are approximate – different models may vary slightly.
How the cut affects your choice
It’s not enough to know only the waist and hip size – the cut of the jeans also changes the fit.
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Skinny – very tight-fitting. If you’re between two sizes, go for the larger one.
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Slim fit – fitted but not as tight. Suitable for everyday wear and office outfits.
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Straight – classic model, falls straight and freely. Easiest to get the right size.
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Mom fit / Boyfriend – looser around hips and thighs. If you want them to look more fitted, you can go one size down.
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Wide leg – very loose and comfortable, size is more flexible.
How the fabric changes the feel
Jeans are no longer just 100% cotton.
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With elastane (2–5%) – more comfortable, stretch after a few wears. If you’re between two sizes, choose the smaller one.
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100% cotton – stiffer and more stable, hardly stretch. Safer to pick your exact size or even half a size up.
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Mixed fabrics – polyester or viscose makes them softer and more flexible.
Tips by body type
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Petite women – choose shorter inseam or cropped 7/8 length jeans to avoid hemming.
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Tall women – models with long inseams or high waist to balance the silhouette.
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Women with wider hips – mom fit and straight jeans flatter the figure without squeezing.
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Slim figures – skinny and slim fit add shape and volume to the legs.
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Curvier figures – darker colors and high-waisted models visually elongate the body.
Common mistakes when buying jeans online
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Looking only at the label without measuring waist and hips.
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Relying on an old pair of jeans that has already stretched.
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Ignoring the fabric – elastane always changes the feel.
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Not reading product descriptions and reviews – often they say whether the model runs small, normal, or large.
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Forgetting to check the return policy – important for peace of mind when shopping online.
FAQ – frequently asked questions
What if my jeans are a bit loose?
If they contain elastane, they may shrink slightly after 1–2 washes. If they’re 100% cotton, you can have them tailored.
My jeans stretched after a few wears – is that normal?
Yes, stretchy fabrics always loosen a little. For a firmer fit, choose models with less elastane or pure cotton.
How should I wash jeans to keep their shape?
Turn them inside out, wash at low temperature (30°C), and avoid the dryer. This preserves the color and elasticity.
Should I size down or up?
For stretchy models – size down. For 100% cotton jeans – stick to your size or size up.
What to do if the size doesn’t fit
Even with correct measurements, sometimes the model just isn’t right for you. The important thing is:
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Keep the tags and packaging.
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Follow the return deadline (usually 14 days).
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Request an exchange for another size – most online shops, including ours, offer this option.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size jeans online may seem challenging, but it’s actually easy when you know the steps. Measure yourself accurately, pay attention to the cut and fabric, and always read the description.
Remember: sizes are just a guide, not a label for your body. It’s perfectly normal to wear one size in one model and a different one in another. What matters is how you feel and look in them.
Next time you fall in love with a pair of jeans online, use these tips – and you’ll shop confidently, without worries.
