Shopping dresses in Australia gets easier when you know your exact measurements and how they convert internationally. Use this Australian dress size guide to measure correctly, read an Australian women's dress size chart, and convert Australian dress sizes to US, UK and EU so you can pick the right fit at Zevara Melbourne with confidence.
How to measure for a reliable fit
Grab a soft measuring tape and measure over minimal, well fitting underwear. Stand naturally, breathe out, and keep the tape level and snug without digging in. Measure each point twice for accuracy and note the result in centimeters. If you only have inches, convert to centimeters by multiplying by 2.54. Measure at the end of the day when you are at your most natural size. If you are between sizes, check the fabric and silhouette - choose the smaller size for structured, non stretch dresses and the larger size for bodycon or fluid fabrics you prefer with ease. For step-by-step measuring tips, see How to know your women's top size in Australia.
Where to measure
Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your bust and straight across your back. Keep the tape parallel to the floor. Do not pull so tight that it flattens the bust.
Underbust
Measure directly under the bust around the ribcage. This helps with fitted bodices, wrap dresses and styles with structured waists.
Waist
Measure at the narrowest point - usually halfway between your lowest rib and top of hip bone. Relax your tummy and do not suck in.
Hips
Measure the fullest part of your hips and seat, keeping the tape level. For midi and maxi dresses, hip measurement often determines glide and drape. For floor-grazing styles, explore our Maxi dresses.
Australian women's dress size chart
Use the Australian standard dress size chart below as a general reference. Body shapes and brand blocks vary, so always compare your own bust, waist and hip to the chart. If a product page provides item measurements, prioritise those over the generic guide. For help reading AU size charts and conversions, see How to read women's top size charts (Australia).
| AU Size | Alpha | Bust (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hip (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | XXS | 76 | 58 | 83 |
| 6 | XS | 78 | 60 | 86 |
| 8 | S | 83 | 65 | 91 |
| 10 | M | 88 | 70 | 96 |
| 12 | L | 93 | 75 | 101 |
| 14 | XL | 98 | 80 | 106 |
| 16 | XXL | 103 | 85 | 111 |
| 18 | 3XL | 110 | 92 | 118 |
| 20 | 4XL | 117 | 99 | 125 |
Tip: If your measurements span two sizes, match the size to the most fitted area of the dress. For example, choose by waist for fit and flare styles and by hips for column or slip dresses.
AU to US, UK and EU size conversion
Australian women's dress sizes typically align with UK sizing. US sizes are about two numbers down from AU, and EU uses a different scale. Use this Australian dress size conversion chart for quick reference. Example: Australian dress size 12 in US is a US 8.
| AU | US | UK | EU |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 0 | 4 | 32 |
| 6 | 2 | 6 | 34 |
| 8 | 4 | 8 | 36 |
| 10 | 6 | 10 | 38 |
| 12 | 8 | 12 | 40 |
| 14 | 10 | 14 | 42 |
| 16 | 12 | 16 | 44 |
| 18 | 14 | 18 | 46 |
| 20 | 16 | 20 | 48 |
| 22 | 18 | 22 | 50 |
Conversions are a guide only. Always cross check with measurements and fabric details for the specific dress you are buying.
Fit tips for shopping at Zevara Melbourne
- Check the product description for fabric stretch. Stretch fabric can accommodate between sizes, while woven fabric is less forgiving.
- Match the size to the dress silhouette. Choose by waist for tailored styles and by hips for straight or bias cuts.
- If you are petite or tall, check the length measurement and compare to your height for the intended hemline.
- Unsure between two sizes? Consider your preferred fit ease and use our 24/7 support for quick sizing help.
- Shop confidently with our 30 day return policy within Australia if the fit is not quite right.
- Prefer mid-calf coverage? Compare lengths in our Midi dresses.
- Shopping shorter hemlines? Try our Mini dresses.
Once you've confirmed your size, start browsing Shop dresses.
FAQs
What are Australian dress sizes?
Australian dress sizes are numeric and largely mirror UK sizes. Most brands offer AU 4 to AU 20, sometimes beyond. For quick reference, AU 10 is roughly US 6 and EU 38. Always verify with an Australian dress size chart and your own measurements.
Is a size 32 a 12 or 14?
It depends on the system. If 32 refers to EU 32, that equals AU 4, not AU 12 or 14. If 32 refers to a 32 inch waist (often used for pants), that is not a dress size and could map to different AU sizes based on hip and style. Check the sizing system and compare your measurements to the chart.
Is size 14 large or XL in Australia?
In many Australian size charts, AU 14 aligns with XL. Some labels list AU 12 as L and AU 14 as L or XL depending on the brand block and intended fit. When in doubt, use the bust, waist and hip measurements to decide.
What dress size is a 70 kg woman?
Weight alone cannot predict dress size. Height, bust, waist and hip measurements determine fit. A 70 kg woman might wear anything from AU 8 to AU 16 depending on proportions and fabric. Measure, compare to the chart, and review the garment's stretch and silhouette.