Size L - what is it? A complete guide to choosing clothes
Size L is a seemingly familiar marking. It is an abbreviation of the English Large , which in Ukraine is associated with size 48-50. However, in the fashion world, this is only a general guideline, not an exact standard, as the parameters may vary depending on the brand, country, and cut.
- L is not a standard. It is a convention that each manufacturer interprets in its own way. Always check the brand's size chart.
- Men's and women's L are different. These sizes take into account the anatomical features of the figures, so their parameters in centimeters do not match.
- The cut decides everything. A classic regular fit will fit the figure, while an oversize of the same size L will be intentionally loose and voluminous.
- Your measurements are key. Knowing your chest, waist, and hip measurements allows you to ignore the conventional letters and choose clothes that fit perfectly.
What is size L actually?
When you see the letter "L" on a label, it means that the item is designed for a certain body size. The problem is that there is no single standard for this "L". An American L will be noticeably larger than an Asian L, and an oversized hoodie of the same size will by default be much looser than a fitted shirt.
That's why blindly trusting just one letter is a direct path to disappointment, especially when shopping online. The surest way to understand whether an item will fit you is to take a measuring tape and compare your parameters with the size chart of a particular brand.
Remember the main rule of modern shopping: your own centimeters are much more important than any letters on the label.
Understanding this simple but important rule is half the battle. It helps you avoid embarrassing mistakes and buy clothes that fit perfectly, emphasizing your style, and not causing discomfort.
How to take measurements correctly: step by step
The biggest pitfall when shopping online is trusting your intuition or your usual size instead of picking up a measuring tape. To get a perfect fit, you only need to know three key numbers: your chest, waist, and hips. It takes no more than five minutes.
The main rule is to take measurements on a naked body or on thin underwear. Stand straight, relax, do not pull your stomach in. The tape should fit snugly but comfortably against the body, without pulling it too much.
Three-step instructions
- Chest circumference: Run the tape around the most prominent points, then under the armpits and across the shoulder blades.
- Waist: Find the narrowest part of your torso—usually just above your belly button. Wrap the tape around it without tightening it.
- Hip circumference: Measure around the widest part of your buttocks, keeping your legs together.
Accurate measurements are your personal key to the perfect wardrobe. They allow you to forget about the mysterious letter on the label and choose clothes that fit your figure.
Armed with accurate numbers, you're ready to shop wisely and successfully. To reinforce your knowledge, read our detailed guide on how to determine your clothing size .
Decoding size L: correspondence tables
Once you know your measurements, it's time to understand what's behind the letter L on the label. The European, American, and Ukrainian sizing systems are noticeably different, and it's easy to get confused.
Below we have put together some handy comparison tables. But remember: these are averages. The most reliable source will always be the size chart on the manufacturer's website.
Checklist for size L for men and women
| Parameter | Men's size L | Women's size L |
|---|---|---|
| Ukrainian size | 50 | 48 |
| European (EU) | 50 | 42 |
| American (US) | M/L (40) | 12–14 |
| Chest circumference (cm) | 100–104 | 94–98 |
| Waist circumference (cm) | 88–92 | 74–78 |
| Hip circumference (cm) | – | 102–106 |
Men's size L
For men, L is one of the most popular sizes, usually corresponding to an average, athletic build. Most often, a men's L is our 50th size, designed for a chest circumference of 100–104 cm . In Europe, this will also be a 50th size, and in the USA it may be labeled as M/L or 40 .
Women's size L
In women's clothing, L is the Ukrainian size 48. This takes into account not only the chest and waist, but also the hips. Focus on the following parameters: chest circumference 94–98 cm, waist 74–78 cm, hips 102–106 cm. For European brands, look for the mark 42 , and for American brands, 12 or 14 .
Want to dive deeper? Check out our detailed article on the Ukrainian clothing size chart .
How the cut affects the fit of size L
Taking measurements is only half the battle. The same letter L on a label can mean a completely different fit. It's all about two basic approaches to design: regular fit and oversize . Understanding this difference is key to making sure your clothes fit exactly the way you want them to.
Classic cut (Regular Fit)
This is the gold standard that we are all used to. Regular fit clothes have a straight, slightly loose silhouette. They do not squeeze the body, but do not look baggy either, neatly following its contours. A size L T-shirt in a classic cut is designed for the standard parameters that we talked about above.
Oversize cut (Oversize)
Oversize is not just "something a couple of sizes bigger," but a conscious design decision. An oversized L-size hoodie will be significantly wider in the shoulders and chest and longer than a classic model of the same size.
Remember: an oversized L is designed for someone who normally wears a L but wants to achieve a deliberately loose, relaxed silhouette. Don't try to achieve this effect by buying a classic item in an XL or XXL - this will only distort the proportions.
In the international size system, the letter L comes from the English word "Large". In Ukraine, which is oriented towards European standards, this is one of the most popular sizes, accounting for a significant share of sales. You can read more about how demographics affect the clothing market in the research.
What to choose at Taton.shop
Knowing your measurements and understanding the differences in cuts makes choosing clothes much easier. At Taton.shop, we create minimalist basic clothing that fits like a glove.
- Basic T-shirts. Our T-shirts made of thick cotton (240 g/m²) in size L have a straight, classic cut. They are designed for a chest circumference of 100-104 cm.
- Tanks and tops. For hot weather or as a first layer under a shirt, check out our stylish women's tank tops and tops .
- Hoodies and sweatshirts. We have L models in both classic and oversized versions. Just take your usual L, and get the desired effect.
We want your shopping experience to be enjoyable, so we have developed simple rules on the Delivery & Payment and Returns & Exchanges pages.
FAQ: frequently asked questions about size L
We have collected the most common questions that arise when choosing size L and prepared concise answers to them.
So L is size 50 or 52?
For men's clothing, L most often corresponds to Ukrainian size 50. For women's clothing , it is 48. But always check the size chart of a specific brand.
What should I do if my parameters are between M and L?
If you like a loose fit, choose L. If the fabric is stretchy or you prefer a tighter fit, choose M. For oversized items, it's almost always better to go down a size.
Will size L fit if I am taller than average?
Sizes S, M, L primarily indicate body volume (chest, waist). If you are significantly taller than average, pay attention to the length of the product and sleeves in the product description.
How to care for clothes so that they don't change size?
The best way is to follow the recommendations on the label. This usually means washing delicately at a temperature of up to 30°C and drying naturally to avoid shrinkage of the fabric.
Conclusion
Understanding size L isn't about memorizing numbers, it's about knowing your body and paying attention to detail. Your measurements, the brand's sizing chart, and the cut are the three pillars that make for a perfect fit. Use this guide as a cheat sheet and your online shopping will always be a success.
Ready to update your basic wardrobe? Browse our new arrivals and find your perfect L.