Quick answer: Pakistani sizing is usually given by bust measurement in inches (32, 34, 36…) and runs alongside the familiar XS–XXL labels. As a rough guide, UK 8 ≈ S/34, UK 10 ≈ M/36, UK 12 ≈ L/38, UK 14 ≈ XL/40. But sizing varies a lot between makers and styles, so the golden rule is to go by your actual measurements, not a dress-size label. The most reliable solution is made-to-measure — at AÏNN London every outfit is cut to your measurements with a 3–5 inch alteration margin, so a local tailor can perfect the fit.
UK and Pakistani sizing don't map neatly onto each other, which is the single biggest cause of fit disappointment when buying online. Here's how to convert with confidence.
UK to Pakistani size conversion
| UK | Pakistani | Bust | Waist | Hip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | XS / 32 | 32–33" | 24–25" | 34–35" |
| 8 | S / 34 | 34–35" | 26–27" | 36–37" |
| 10 | M / 36 | 36–37" | 28–29" | 38–39" |
| 12 | L / 38 | 38–39" | 30–31" | 40–41" |
| 14 | XL / 40 | 40–41" | 32–33" | 42–43" |
| 16 | XXL / 42 | 42–43" | 34–35" | 44–45" |
| 18 | XXXL / 44 | 44–45" | 36–37" | 46–47" |
These are general guidelines — always check against your own measurements. (See our full size chart.)
Why Pakistani sizing is different
- Numeric sizing is based on bust in inches (so “36” means a 36-inch bust).
- Cuts and ease vary between traditional and contemporary styles.
- Makers differ: there's no single industry standard, so two “mediums” can differ.
- Fitted, embellished pieces need precise bust and waist measurements to sit well.
Garment-specific notes
A fitted lehenga choli depends most on accurate bust and waist; a sharara or gharara needs the right waist plus length for the flare; and flowing maxis and anarkalis are more forgiving but still benefit from a correct shoulder and bust. (See how to measure for a lehenga and styles for your body shape.)
The reliable solution: made to measure
Conversion charts get you close, but the surest way to avoid a sizing disappointment is to have the outfit made to your measurements. AÏNN London does exactly that, with a 3–5 inch alteration margin for local tailoring and a video of the finished piece before dispatch. (See how custom fitting works.)
Explore the bridal collection or ask us for sizing help.
Frequently asked questions
What size am I in Pakistani clothing if I'm a UK 10?
A UK 10 is roughly a Pakistani M / size 36 (about a 36–37" bust), but this varies by maker and style, so always check your actual bust, waist and hip against the specific size chart rather than relying on the label.
What does the numeric Pakistani size mean?
The numeric size (32, 34, 36…) refers to the bust measurement in inches. So a size 36 is cut for roughly a 36-inch bust. It runs alongside the XS–XXL labels.
Why do different brands fit differently?
There's no single industry standard for Pakistani sizing, and cuts differ between traditional and contemporary styles, so two pieces both labelled “medium” can fit differently. Going by your measurements rather than the label is the safest approach.
How do I avoid sizing problems when buying online?
Use your actual measurements against the specific size chart, and where possible choose made-to-measure. At AÏNN London every outfit is cut to your measurements with a 3–5 inch alteration margin and filmed before dispatch, which removes most sizing risk.
AÏNN London makes every outfit to your measurements with a 3–5 inch alteration margin and a video before dispatch. Ask us for sizing help.
Last updated: June 2026
