AU to EU Plus Size Converter 🇦🇺🇪🇺
Bridge Australian and European sizing! The complete AU to EU plus size conversion chart, interactive calculator, and fit guide for shopping continental fashion.
Shopping from Australia to continental Europe means navigating two completely different sizing systems — but the math is straightforward. European sizes run approximately 26-28 numbers higher than Australian sizes — an AU 22 equals an EU 48-50, and an AU 28 equals an EU 54-56. But French, Italian, and German sizing each interpret the EU standard differently, and country-specific quirks can turn a simple conversion into a return. This comprehensive guide provides the definitive AU to EU conversion chart, an interactive calculator, country-specific fit insights, and measurement tips so Australian shoppers can access the best of European plus size fashion.
Select your AU or EU size, choose the conversion direction, and instantly see your equivalent. Also displays UK and US sizes for complete international clarity.
AU to EU Plus Size Conversion Chart
Below is the complete AU to EU plus size conversion chart covering AU sizes 16 through 38. European plus size fashion typically ranges from EU 44-66+. The highlighted row marks the pivotal AU 22 / EU 48-50 crossover — the most commonly referenced conversion for Australian shoppers entering the European market.
| 🇦🇺 AU Size | 🇪🇺 EU Size | 🇬🇧 UK Size | 🇺🇸 US Size | Bust (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hip (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | 44 | 16 | 12 | 99-102 | 79-82 | 104-107 |
| 18 | 46 | 18 | 14 | 104-107 | 84-87 | 109-112 |
| 20 | 48 | 20 | 16 | 109-112 | 89-92 | 114-117 |
| 22 | 48-50 | 22 | 18 | 114-117 | 94-97 | 119-122 |
| 24 | 50-52 | 24 | 20 | 119-122 | 99-102 | 124-127 |
| 26 | 52-54 | 26 | 22 | 124-127 | 104-107 | 129-132 |
| 28 | 54-56 | 28 | 24 | 129-132 | 109-112 | 134-137 |
| 30 | 56-58 | 30 | 26 | 134-137 | 114-117 | 139-142 |
| 32 | 58-60 | 32 | 28 | 139-142 | 119-122 | 144-147 |
| 34 | 60-62 | 34 | 30 | 144-147 | 124-127 | 149-152 |
| 36 | 62-64 | 36 | 32 | 149-152 | 129-132 | 154-157 |
| 38 | 64-66 | 38 | 34 | 154-157 | 134-137 | 159-162 |
AU to EU: Add 26-28 to your AU size. EU to AU: Subtract 26-28 from your EU size. Example: AU 22 + 26 = EU 48. EU 54 — 26 = AU 28. The range exists because European countries interpret the standard differently — German brands tend toward +26, Italian and French toward +28. Always check individual brand charts.
Australian and European clothing sizes follow completely different numerical systems. The standard conversion is: EU size = AU size + 26-28. So an AU 22 becomes an EU 48-50, and an AU 28 becomes an EU 54-56. The range exists because different European countries interpret the sizing standard slightly differently.
Why the large numerical gap? European sizes originated from body measurements in centimeters, while Australian sizes (inherited from the UK system) evolved from an arbitrary numbering scale. An EU 48 was designed to fit a bust measurement of approximately 96-100 cm — the same body that wears an AU 20-22. The numbers look dramatically different (48 vs 22), but the actual garment measurements are nearly identical. Understanding this is the key to stress-free shopping.
"Your AU 26 body wears an EU 54. Same fit, different numerical language. The centimeters on the size chart are your universal translator — they never lie."
While the +26-28 rule provides the mathematical bridge, European and Australian retailers have distinctly different approaches to fit, fabric, and design. German brands are generous through bust and shoulder, Italian and French brands run slimmer, and Australian brands sit somewhere in between with lighter fabrics.
Pro tip: German plus size retailers are the most reliable entry point for Australian shoppers new to European fashion. Their EU sizing is consistent, fits are generous where needed, and international return policies are generally straightforward. For detailed comparisons, explore our plus size brand reviews.
European size charts use centimeters — the same system Australian shoppers already use. This is a significant advantage: no inch conversion needed. But European brands emphasize different measurements than Australian brands.
- ✓ Bust (cm): German brands cut generously through the bust — you may fit the smaller EU size in the conversion range. French and Italian brands cut closer — choose the larger EU size in the range.
- ✓ Waist (cm): European brands cut closer to the natural waist than Australian brands. Measure at your narrowest point, not where your trousers sit.
- ✓ Hip (cm): Southern European brands (Italy, Spain, France) cut narrower through the hip than Australian brands. If you carry weight in your lower body, size up within the EU conversion range.
- ✓ Fabric weight: European garments use heavier fabrics than Australian equivalents. A European "summer dress" may be suitable for Australian autumn or spring rather than peak summer.
As an Australian shopper, centimeters are your native measurement language — European brands speak the same language. Create a "European Shopping Card" with your measurements in cm plus your AU, UK, US, and EU sizes. German brands are your best starting point — their sizing is the most consistent with the standard EU scale.
Not all "European" sizes are created equal. France, Italy, Germany, and Spain each have their own sizing traditions that deviate from the standard EU system. Ordering from a French boutique using German EU size assumptions will result in disappointment.
- 🇫🇷 French Sizing (FR): French sizes are typically 2 sizes smaller than standard EU. A French 50 ≈ EU 46 ≈ AU 18. Look for "Taille" on size charts. An AU 22 shopper needs approximately FR 52-54.
- 🇮🇹 Italian Sizing (IT): Italian sizes are 2-4 sizes smaller than standard EU. An Italian 54 ≈ EU 50 ≈ AU 22. Italian plus size retailers often provide conversion charts — always use them.
- 🇩🇪 German/Austrian Sizing (DE): The most reliable and consistent. Standard EU sizing. Apply simple +26 rule. AU 22 = DE 48. Best starting point for Australian shoppers.
- 🇪🇸 Spanish Sizing (ES): Generally follows standard EU but runs slightly smaller through the hip. Size up within the EU conversion range if lower-body curves are your fit challenge.
Australia and Europe are in opposite hemispheres, creating a powerful seasonal shopping advantage that Australian plus size shoppers can leverage.
- ❄️ Shop European winter during Australian summer (December-February): European winter clearance in January offers incredible deals on coats, knitwear, and cold-weather accessories. Perfect for Australian winter planning or Northern Hemisphere travel.
- ☀️ Shop European summer during Australian winter (June-August): European summer sales in July-August align with Australian winter — you can stock up on next season's warm-weather wardrobe at clearance prices.
- 💰 Dual-season access: Unlike Northern Hemisphere shoppers who wait 6 months for opposite-season clearance, Australian shoppers can always find something in season somewhere in Europe. This is a genuine strategic advantage.
Returning items to European retailers from Australia involves international shipping, currency conversion, and potentially long processing times. Understanding the landscape before ordering is essential.
German and Dutch retailers: Generally offer the most straightforward return processes for Australian customers. Return shipping from Australia to Germany typically costs AU$35-55 and takes 2-4 weeks. Refunds are processed in euros, so the credited amount may fluctuate with exchange rates.
French and Italian retailers: Return policies vary significantly. Some luxury labels are final sale for international orders. Return shipping from Australia to France or Italy typically costs AU$40-60. Always check the return policy for each individual item before purchasing. For detailed breakdowns, visit our international returns guide.
Scenario 1: The German Knit Dress. You're an AU 24 and find a beautiful knit dress from a German plus size specialist. According to the chart, AU 24 = EU 50-52. German brands cut generously, so EU 50 should work. The size chart shows: bust 120cm, waist 102cm, hip 126cm. Your measurements: bust 118cm, waist 100cm, hip 128cm. The hip is borderline but the knit has 5% elastane — EU 50 will stretch comfortably.
Scenario 2: The French Boutique Blazer. You're an AU 26 and find a structured blazer from a French boutique. The size options show French sizes: 52, 54, 56, 58. French sizing runs 2 smaller than standard EU. A French 54 ≈ EU 50 ≈ AU 22 — far too small. As an AU 26, you'd need approximately French 58-60. Always verify whether a European site uses French (FR), Italian (IT), or standard EU (DE) sizing before applying the +26-28 conversion.
Approximately — in standard EU sizing, an EU 48 corresponds to an AU 20-22. The conversion isn't perfectly 1:1 because the numerical scales don't align exactly. EU 48 sits at the crossover between AU 20 and AU 22. German brands (EU 48) tend toward AU 22, while Italian and French interpretations may lean toward AU 20. Always check the brand's specific size chart in centimeters.
EU sizes are based on body measurements in centimeters, while AU sizes (inherited from the UK system) evolved from an arbitrary numbering scale. An EU 48 was designed to fit a bust measurement of approximately 96-100 cm — the same body that wears an AU 20-22. The numbers look bigger because they're derived from physical measurements, not because the clothes are bigger.
Standard EU sizing is used in Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Scandinavia (EU -26 = AU). French sizing (FR) runs approximately 2 sizes smaller than standard EU (FR 50 ≈ EU 46 ≈ AU 18). Italian sizing (IT) runs 2-4 sizes smaller (IT 54 ≈ EU 50 ≈ AU 22). When shopping on a European site, look for "Größe" (German), "Taille" (French), or "Taglia" (Italian) to identify which system is being used.
Yes — European plus size garments have different proportions. German brands are more generous through bust and shoulder. Scandinavian brands cut with a straighter silhouette. Italian brands assume more hourglass proportions. French brands run slimmer. European fabrics are heavier and warmer than Australian equivalents. For detailed comparisons, see our plus size brand reviews.
Australian customs applies GST (10%) to imported goods, which should be collected at the point of sale for orders under AU$1,000. Orders over AU$1,000 may be subject to additional customs duties. The Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations are ongoing — currently, standard customs rates apply to most EU apparel imports. Always check the retailer's Australian shipping page for current information on whether taxes and duties are included.
(1) Know your measurements in centimeters — you already use this system. (2) Apply the +26-28 rule: AU size + 26-28 = EU size. (3) Start with German brands — they're the most consistent with standard EU sizing. (4) Verify whether the site uses standard EU, French, or Italian sizing. (5) Check fabric composition — European brands use less elastane on average. (6) Leverage the seasonal advantage — shop European winter clearance during Australian summer.
European plus size fashion offers Australian shoppers something genuinely unique — from German precision tailoring to Italian luxury fabrics and Scandinavian minimalist chic. The +26-28 rule provides a reliable mathematical bridge between AU and EU sizes, and as an Australian shopper who already works in centimeters, you have a built-in advantage navigating European size charts.
Armed with the +26-28 conversion rule, your centimeter measurements, and an understanding of country-specific differences, you're ready to shop the continent with confidence. For more international shopping guides, brand deep-dives, and plus size style inspiration, explore our complete collection of size guides, brand reviews, and international shopping tips.
About the PlusSizePlus Editorial Team
This article was researched, written, and reviewed by the PlusSizePlus Editorial Team. Our team creates educational resources covering plus size fashion, international size conversion, shopping guides, brand comparisons, and body-positive style advice. Every article is written to be clear, practical, and as accurate as possible based on publicly available sizing standards and retailer information. We review our articles periodically to keep them up to date as sizing conventions and brand policies evolve.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Size conversions presented are based on standard international sizing conventions and may vary between individual brands, specific garments, and fabric types. French, Italian, and Spanish sizing systems deviate from standard EU sizing. Always consult the specific retailer's official size chart and return policy before making a purchase. For important limitations, please read our full Disclaimer.
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