Clothing Size Chart Youth: US Sizing, Measurements & Fit Tips
Clear US youth clothing size charts with measurements in inches and centimeters. Learn to measure, compare stretch vs non-stretch fits, and get shrinkage advice.
In this guide
Youth clothing size charts translate body measurements (chest, waist, hips, height) into standard US sizes like XS to XL or numbers from 6 to 20. Most brands follow similar size ranges, but actual fit depends on cut and fabric type, especially stretch. The most accurate youth sizing comes from direct measurements, particularly for non-stretch fabrics, since growth and style preferences can mean sizing up or down.
Key takeaways
- Youth clothing sizes in the US use both letter (XS–XL) and number (6–20) systems.
- Always measure chest, waist, hips, and height for best results—each brand can differ.
- Stretch fabrics suit closer fits and allow more forgiveness between sizes; wovens have less give.
- Children’s clothes commonly shrink after washing, especially 100% cotton.
- Brand size charts vary—always check their numbers when possible.
Youth clothing size chart: US sizes, inches and centimeters
This standard youth clothing size chart shows common US ranges by body measurement. Use a child’s actual measurements, not garment sizes, to pick the best fit. Individual brand charts may run small or large, so check them when available.
| Size | Numeric | Chest | Waist | Hip | Height | Approx. Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 6–7 | 25–26″ (64–66 cm) | 22–23″ (56–58 cm) | 26–27″ (66–69 cm) | 47–51″ (119–130 cm) | 6–7 yrs |
| S | 8 | 26–27″ (66–69 cm) | 23–24″ (58–61 cm) | 27–28″ (69–71 cm) | 51–53″ (130–135 cm) | 7–8 yrs |
| M | 10–12 | 28–30″ (71–76 cm) | 24–25″ (61–64 cm) | 29–31″ (74–79 cm) | 54–58″ (137–147 cm) | 9–11 yrs |
| L | 14–16 | 31–33″ (79–84 cm) | 26–27″ (66–69 cm) | 33–35″ (84–89 cm) | 59–63″ (150–160 cm) | 12–14 yrs |
| XL | 18–20 | 34–36″ (86–91 cm) | 28–30″ (71–76 cm) | 36–38″ (91–97 cm) | 64–67″ (163–170 cm) | 15–16 yrs |
How to measure for youth clothing sizes
Careful measuring helps you pick the right youth size, especially online or for close-fitting styles. Use a soft tape measure and light indoor clothes. Stand straight with arms relaxed for best accuracy. The chest and hip should be measured at the fullest points, while the natural waist is usually the narrowest position, found by asking the child to bend sideways to locate the crease.
How to measure a child for clothing size
- Have your child stand straight with arms relaxed.
- Measure the fullest part of the chest just under the arms.
- Find the natural waist by having the child bend—measure at the crease.
- For hips, measure the widest point while keeping the tape level.
- Measure height from the top of the head to the floor.
- Record all measurements. Round up to the next size if in between.
Interpreting youth size numbers: letters vs numerals
In the US, youth clothing often shows both lettered sizes (XS–XL) and numbered sizes (6, 8, 10, etc.). Numbered sizes are standard for school uniforms, jeans, and formalwear, while lettered sizes are frequent in casual and sportswear. The fit can still vary—for instance, a “youth medium” may fit tightly in one brand and more generously in another. Always compare body measurements to the chart, instead of assuming consistency across different size systems.
Why youth sizing varies between brands
US youth sizing is not truly standardized between brands: Sleeve length, leg length, body width, and ease may differ by over an inch (2–3 cm) even for the same labeled size. Fitted, classic, and athletic cuts also change the fit. Brands may grade differently for ‘plus’ or ‘slim’ shapes as well. Always check the brand’s own chart, or compare your child’s measurements directly to the chart above as a fallback.
Clothing size chart youth: fabric stretch and fit
Stretch transforms sizing and comfort: Knit fabrics (like T-shirts, leggings, fleece) stretch with the body, fitting snugger or forgiving in between sizes. Wovens (like shirts or jeans without elastane) have little stretch and can feel tight at the waist, hips, or sleeves, especially for growing kids. For play or sportswear, stretch fabrics help minimize sizing issues and can make a difference if the child is sized in-between.
Stretch vs Non-stretch Youth Clothes
Our rating, 1–5, higher is betterHow fabric type affects sizing and movement
The type of fabric matters for both fit and future changes in fit. Knit fabrics, like jersey, French terry, and fleece, naturally stretch and are comfortable for growth and play. If elastane (spandex) is added, even small amounts (like 5%) make clothes much more forgiving to movement and temporary growth spurts. Woven fabrics—such as cotton poplin, denim without stretch, or wool suiting—do not stretch much, so these pieces must be sized correctly, with at least an inch of extra room for comfort and to allow for possible shrinkage.
For special occasions, tailored suits, or uniforms, check both “body measurement” and “finished garment” size charts, if offered. Some brands will state a “garment chest” that is 2–3″ bigger than the child’s chest—that’s typical for woven shirts and jackets.
How much do youth clothes shrink after washing?
Shrinkage is common—especially with cotton knits: Our records for 100% cotton youth jersey (T-shirt fabric) show a median shrinkage after one wash and tumble dry of 5–6% in length and 2% in width. Nearly half of production lots shrank 6% or more in length. Blends with polyester or elastane shrink less but can still lose around 4–6% in length. High dryer heat increases shrinkage rates, and repeated hot washes can add to it. School uniform shirts and polos are often a polyester-cotton blend, which typically shrink about half as much as 100% cotton.
Cotton youth jersey: shrinkage after one wash
Measured result- Test
- Dimensional change after washing and tumble drying
- Method
- Finished-fabric quality check
- Sample
- 6,215 cotton jersey lots, 2012–2026
- Conditions
- One wash, tumble dry
- Result
- Median length −5%, width −2%
Worst 10% of lots shrank −9% length or more.
A typical 100% cotton youth T-shirt after one wash
- Length
- −5%
- Width
- −2%
- Fabric area
- −6.9%
How repeated washing changes youth fit over time
Our production records show that with repeated hot drying, initial shrinkage may double after 3–5 cycles compared to one. For example, the length loss of a cotton T-shirt can approach the maximum spec (up to −9%) after several cycles at high heat. By contrast, line drying typically limits shrinkage to the first 3–5% in the initial wash. If you buy close-fitting T-shirts or polos, allow for up to one full US size in shrinkage if tumble drying is used routinely, especially with 100% cotton.
When should you size up or down for youth clothes?
- Size up if your child is between sizes, tall for age, or due for a growth spurt. Kids can grow an inch or more seemingly overnight, especially between ages 7–14.
- Size up for wovens with little stretch, or for layering and looser-fits. Wovens have no “give”—allow space, especially for button shirts, denim, schoolwear, and raincoats.
- Choose true to size for stretchy knits, leggings, or when a closer fit is wanted for sports or dance.
- Size down only if your child is significantly slimmer or the brand runs very large—rare, but some athletic brands cut for “room to grow.”
When should you size up in youth clothing?
Problem
Tight or short fit after purchase
Why it happens
- Growth spurts
- Fabric shrinkage after washing
- Non-stretch fabrics with little forgiveness
What fixes it
- Size up if between sizes
- Allow room for shrinkage in cottons
- Prefer stretchy fabrics where possible
Choosing fit by style and activity
Pick looser fits for sports, layering, or rapid growth: Garments like hoodies, joggers, and loose shorts allow easy movement, easier dressing, and longer wear life. For uniforms and fitted styles, aim for a fit that allows a full range of motion but is not baggy—check the length of sleeves, inseam, and body for signs a child may soon outgrow the garment. In our testing and retail experience, the average lifespan of a true-to-size T-shirt or pair of jeans is typically one year or a single growth cycle, so planning for some growth room avoids frustration and waste.
How to read youth garment tags and labels
Almost every youth garment will have a sewn-in label listing its US size (e.g., M 10/12), country of origin, and fabric content. For blended fabrics with stretch, look for the presence of “elastane” or “spandex”—this is a clue that sizing forgivingness will be higher. Some brands add a “plus” or “slim” indicator for non-average body types, especially in schoolwear.
Garment labels may state “pre-shrunk.” This usually means the item is less likely to shrink more than 3–4% after laundering, but it’s wise to wash cool and line dry when first washing a new piece.
Washing and care tips: protect your youth clothes fit
Best care for most youth clothes
Use a cool, gentle wash (30 °C / 86 °F) and line dry to reduce shrinkage and keep clothes fitting well. Tumble drying, especially on high, increases the risk of shrinkage. Use only non-chlorine bleach if needed, and a medium iron if required. For further fabric-specific care info, see our fabric care guides, and for tips on minimizing shrinkage, see how to stop clothes from shrinking.
FAQ: youth clothing size chart
Youth clothing size chart: quick guide
What size is youth 10/12 compared to adult sizing?
Youth 10/12 fits a chest of 28–30″ (71–76 cm) and height of 54–58″ (137–147 cm), smaller than most adult XS or S and less roomy in the torso.
Are youth sizes unisex?
Most US youth sizes are unisex, but some brands offer slim, regular, or plus cuts for different body shapes. Boys’ and girls’ fits may differ in hip and waist.
Should I size up if my child is between sizes?
Yes—sizing up helps with future growth and shrinkage, particularly for non-stretch and 100% cotton clothes.
Is it best to measure over clothes?
Take measurements over light underwear or thin clothing. Bulky clothing gives inaccurate numbers, especially for chest and waist.
How much do most youth clothes shrink?
Lab records for cotton knits show median shrinkage of 5–6% length after one wash and tumble dry. Polyester and elastane blends shrink less but still by several percent.
Why don’t all brands match the same size numbers?
There’s no universal youth chart—brands may differ by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) or more in key spots. Always check the retailer’s own chart.
Do you need to account for future growth when buying school uniforms?
Yes, especially if your school year spans a full year or if your child typically grows quickly. Uniforms are often worn multiple times a week, so a little room to grow is wise.
How this guide was researched
This guide draws on published US youth size standards, production data, and my textile industry work in fabric development and dyeing quality control (2012–2026). Shrinkage and fit recommendations come directly from lab and mill records, covering over 6,000 production lots of cotton knits and blends. To learn more about our test sources and principles, see how we test.
Kamrul Islam
Kamrul Islam is a textile engineer who has worked in industrial fabric dyeing and development since 2012. He studied wet processing (dyeing) at the University of Chittagong, ran dyeing production, and has headed dyeing and fabric development since 2017 — recipes, shade approval and functional finishes. He writes here so shoppers can understand fabrics the way the people who make…