Quick answer: Your UK dress size (8, 10, 12…) is a useful starting point, but it doesn't translate perfectly to Pakistani outfits, which are best made to your actual body measurements — chest/bust, waist, hips and lengths. Two people who are both a "UK 12" can have quite different proportions, so made-to-measure gives the best fit. AÏNN London also builds a 3–5 inch alteration margin into every outfit, so a local tailor can fine-tune it. Give measurements, not just a dress-size label.
"I'm a UK 12 — what size do I order?" It's the most common sizing question, and the honest answer is: measurements beat dress-size labels. Here's why, and how to get it right.
Why UK dress sizes don't map cleanly
- Dress sizes are inconsistent: a "12" varies between UK high-street brands, let alone across countries.
- Proportions differ: two people who both wear a UK 12 can have different bust, waist and hip ratios and very different heights.
- Pakistani outfits are cut differently: fitted cholis, kameez lengths, gharara/lehenga lengths and sleeve fit all depend on your body, not a generic size.
So a UK size is a helpful starting point — but it's not enough on its own for a great fit.
Measurements are the real answer
Made-to-measure works from your actual numbers. The key ones are:
- Bust/chest — around the fullest part.
- Waist — around the narrowest part.
- Hips — around the fullest part.
- Lengths — shoulder, kameez/top length, and trouser or skirt length.
Our measurement guide walks you through taking these accurately at home, and the size chart helps you cross-reference.
The 3–5 inch alteration margin
Even with good measurements, bodies change and a final in-person fit matters. That's why every AÏNN London outfit includes a 3–5 inch alteration margin in the seams — a local tailor can take it in or let it out for a flawless finish. (See getting local alterations right.)
Rough guide: UK size to measurements
As a very rough orientation only (always use your real measurements):
- A UK size broadly corresponds to a bust/waist/hip range — but the spread within one size is wide.
- If you're between sizes, or longer/shorter in the body than average, measurements matter even more.
- Plus sizes and petite frames especially benefit from made-to-measure rather than a size label.
The takeaway: don't rely on "I'm a 12." Send your measurements and let the outfit be built to them.
What this means for ordering
For made-to-order pieces, you provide measurements and we make the outfit to fit. For in-stock pieces in set sizes, check the measurements behind the size — and remember the alteration margin gives a local tailor room to perfect it. (See ready-to-wear vs made-to-order.)
Browse bridal wear, read the measurement guide, or contact us if you're unsure about sizing.
Frequently asked questions
Does my UK dress size translate to Pakistani outfits?
Only as a rough starting point. Pakistani outfits are best made to your actual body measurements — bust, waist, hips and lengths — because dress sizes vary and proportions differ between people of the same size.
What measurements do I need for a made-to-measure outfit?
Mainly bust/chest, waist, hips and key lengths (shoulder, top length, and trouser or skirt length). Our measurement guide shows how to take them accurately.
What if my fit isn't perfect when it arrives?
Every outfit includes a 3–5 inch alteration margin, so a local tailor can take it in or let it out for a perfect final fit.
Is made-to-measure better than ordering by UK size?
Generally yes, especially if you're between sizes, plus size or petite — made-to-measure fits your actual proportions rather than a generic size label.
AÏNN London makes outfits to your measurements in 900+ shades, with a 3–5 inch alteration margin and a video of your finished outfit before dispatch — duties included and free delivery over £500. Ask us about sizing.
Last updated: June 2026
