The wrong size is the most frequent reason for returns and frustration when buying a costume online. At Teular, we have been advising on sizes for over 20 years and have seen the same mistakes repeated: people ordering their usual street clothes size (which doesn't always match the costume's), parents guessing by age without measuring the child, couples sharing a costume without checking sizes... This comprehensive guide helps you choose the correct size the first time.
How to measure correctly for a costume
Before buying, measure at least these three references with a flexible tape measure (a sewing one). If you only have a rigid ruler, use a string and then measure it.
For women
- Bust: around the fullest part of your bust, with arms at your sides and breathing normally.
- Waist: around the narrowest part (approximately around the navel).
- Hips: around the fullest part of your hips, without tightening.
- Length (optional): from shoulder to floor, if the costume is a long dress.
For men
- Chest: around the fullest part of the chest.
- Waist: around the area where pants sit.
- Hips: around the fullest part (important for costumes with pants).
For children
- Child's height (barefoot): this is the most important measurement for children's costumes.
- Chest: around the chest under the armpits.
Adult Women's Size Chart (reference)
| Size | Bust (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hips (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 80-84 | 62-66 | 88-92 |
| S | 86-90 | 68-72 | 94-98 |
| M | 92-96 | 74-78 | 100-104 |
| L | 98-102 | 80-84 | 106-110 |
| XL | 104-108 | 86-90 | 112-116 |
| XXL | 110-114 | 92-96 | 118-122 |
Adult Men's Size Chart (reference)
| Size | Chest (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hips (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S (44) | 88-92 | 74-78 | 92-96 |
| M (48) | 96-100 | 82-86 | 100-104 |
| L (52) | 104-108 | 90-94 | 108-112 |
| XL (56) | 112-116 | 98-102 | 116-120 |
| XXL (60) | 120-124 | 106-110 | 124-128 |
Children's Size Chart (by age and height)
| Age | Height (cm) |
|---|---|
| 0-3 months | 50-58 |
| 3-6 months | 58-67 |
| 6-12 months | 67-78 |
| 12-24 months | 78-92 |
| 2-3 years | 92-100 |
| 4-5 years | 100-110 |
| 6-7 years | 110-122 |
| 8-9 years | 122-134 |
| 10-11 years | 134-146 |
| 12 years | 146-158 |
| 14 years | 158-164 |
What if I'm between two sizes?
This is the most frequent question. The general answer is: choose the larger size, especially if:
- The costume has multiple layers (shirt + vest + cape).
- It's made of rigid fabric (velvet, brocade, thick linen).
- You'll be wearing it for many hours.
- There will be dancing, eating, or intense movement.
- It's for a child who is growing fast.
Choose the smaller size only if the costume contains elastane (usually indicated in the description) or if it's designed to be very tight (Charleston dress, superhero bodysuits, lycra skeleton suit).
Special cases: plus sizes and special sizes
XL, XXL and special sizes
At Teular, we have a specific collection of plus sizes up to size 56. Handmade costumes often offer a better drape in larger sizes than mass-produced ones — invest a little more, and it will show many hours later.
Pregnant women
If you are pregnant, look for costumes with elastic waists or loose dresses (Roman tunic, medieval dress, cape). Avoid tight-fitting waists. There are also specific maternity costumes in some themes (maternity zombie, maternity vampire).
Teenagers (tall children / young adult body)
For boys/girls aged 13-15 with a developed body, it's better to start trying adult sizes S or XS instead of the largest children's sizes (size 14). Children's cuts are designed for children's bodies and tend to be short in adult proportions.
Frequent mistakes when choosing a size
Mistake 1: "I'll order my usual clothes size"
Costume sizes do not always match street clothes sizes. A woman who wears a size 38 in clothing might need a costume size M or L depending on the model. Always check with the specific costume's size chart.
Mistake 2: "I'm only guided by age for my child"
Children grow very differently. An 8-year-old child can measure anywhere from 122 to 140 cm. Always measure height; don't rely solely on age.
Mistake 3: "I'll buy the exact size so it fits snugly"
If you're going to an event where you'll be sitting, walking, eating, dancing — you need some leeway. A costume that fits "perfectly" with no movement can become torture after 4 hours of partying.
Mistake 4: "I'll order for my partner without checking"
Make sure you know the other person's actual sizes. If not, measure their favorite garment and compare it with the costume's size chart.
What to do if the size is not correct
If you receive a costume that doesn't fit well:
- Exchange period at Teular: 14 days from receipt.
- Conditions: unworn, with tags and original packaging.
- Exceptions: wigs, eyelashes, makeup, and underwear cannot be exchanged for hygiene reasons.
- Exchange cost: the customer pays for return shipping; if the new size costs the same, there is no extra charge.
If you have questions before buying, contact us by email (info@teular.com) or call us. We will help you choose the correct size and avoid an exchange.
Summary: 5 golden rules for getting the size right
- Measure, don't estimate. The tape measure always beats intuition.
- If you're between two sizes, choose the larger one (unless it's lycra/stretchy).
- For children, be guided by height, not just age.
- Consider the type of event: the more movement, the more leeway.
- Before buying, check the product's specific size chart; don't assume standard sizes.
And if you have any questions, we're here to help. Contact us before buying, and we'll advise you without obligation.