Buying Indian clothes online in Canada is convenient, but choosing the right size can sometimes be the hardest part. Indian ethnic wear comes in many different cuts, fabrics and silhouettes, so the size you normally wear may not always feel exactly the same in a kurta set, Anarkali, palazzo set or ready-made blouse.
At Aromie, we want choosing your outfit to be as straightforward as possible. This Indian outfit sizing guide answers 15 common questions about kurta sizing, Indian suits, saree blouses and ethnic wear fit.
Before ordering, always check the size chart provided on the individual product page. Measurements and fit can vary depending on the style, fabric and brand.
Looking for your next outfit? Explore Indian ethnic wear online in Canada at Aromie.
Kurta & Indian Suit Fit Questions
1. How should a kurta fit?
A well-fitting kurta should feel comfortable around your shoulders, bust and waist without pulling when you move your arms or sit down.
Some kurtas are intentionally designed with a relaxed or straight fit, while others have a more structured or A-line silhouette. Because of this, don't judge the size only by how loose or fitted the garment appears on the model.
Check the product description and size chart before ordering. You can browse Indian suits and kurta sets online in Canada to compare different styles and silhouettes.
2. Should I size up when buying a kurta set online?
Not automatically. Start by measuring yourself and comparing your measurements with the size chart for that specific product. If your measurements fall comfortably within one size, that will normally be the best place to start.
If you're directly between two sizes, the larger size can sometimes provide more flexibility, particularly with a structured or less stretchy garment. However, the correct choice also depends on the intended fit and fabric. It's generally easier for a tailor to take in a garment that is slightly loose than to add room to one that is too small.
3. How should a kurta fit around the bust?
The fabric should fall naturally without obvious pulling or tension. Pay particular attention to this area when ordering a fitted kurta or Anarkali. If the garment pulls significantly when you move your arms, the fit may be too small even if the waist fits correctly. Your bust measurement is therefore an important measurement to compare with the product's size chart.
4. How should the shoulders of a kurta fit?
The shoulder seams should generally sit close to your natural shoulder line unless the garment intentionally uses a dropped-shoulder design. If the seams sit considerably inward, the garment may feel restrictive. If they fall much farther beyond your shoulders than the design intends, the upper portion may look oversized. Shoulder fit is particularly important because an incorrect shoulder size can affect how the sleeves, neckline and bust area sit.
5. What if my bust and waist measurements are different sizes?
This is normal. Don't assume that every measurement needs to correspond perfectly with one standard size. When one measurement falls into a larger size category, pay particular attention to the part of the garment where you need the additional room.
For example, with a fitted kurta, choosing based on the bust measurement may be more practical than choosing a smaller size simply because it matches your waist. Minor adjustments can often be made by a local tailor if necessary.
Fabric & Kurta Set Sizing
6. Should cotton kurtas fit loosely?
Cotton kurtas are often more comfortable with a little room for movement, particularly for everyday wear. Unlike highly stretchy materials, many woven cotton fabrics don't stretch significantly when you move. A comfortable cotton kurta should allow normal movement without excessive pulling.
If you're shopping for comfortable everyday Indian clothing, check Aromie's latest Indian ethnic wear arrivals.
7. Does fabric affect how an Indian outfit fits?
Yes. Cotton, rayon, silk blends, georgette and other materials don't all drape or stretch in the same way. Two outfits labelled with the same size can therefore feel somewhat different. Structured fabrics generally hold their shape more firmly, while softer fabrics may drape closer to the body. This is another reason to read the individual product description rather than relying only on the size label.
8. How should palazzo pants fit?
Palazzo pants are generally designed to provide a relaxed fit through the legs. The waistband, however, should still sit comfortably and securely. Many styles use elasticated or partially elasticated waistbands to provide additional flexibility. When buying a kurta palazzo set online, check both the kurta measurements and any available bottom measurements.
9. What does “partially elasticated waistband” mean?
A partially elasticated waistband usually combines a structured section with elastic in part of the waistband. This provides some flexibility while helping the bottoms maintain their shape. It can make palazzos and trousers more comfortable across a range of waist measurements, but it doesn't mean the garment has unlimited stretch. Always use the size chart as your main reference.
Saree & Blouse Fit Questions
10. How do I choose a ready-made blouse size?
Start with your bust measurement and compare it with the sizing information provided for the blouse. You should also consider the blouse's design. Sleeve style, neckline, closure and fabric can all influence how a blouse feels. A ready-made blouse should feel secure without significantly restricting your movement or breathing.
Explore sarees online in Canada when shopping for your next saree look.
11. How tight should a saree blouse be?
A saree blouse is normally more fitted than a kurta, but fitted shouldn't mean uncomfortable. You should be able to move your arms naturally and sit comfortably. Significant pulling around the closure, shoulders or sleeves can indicate that the blouse is too small or needs alteration. Comfort matters especially for weddings, festivals and other events where you'll be wearing the outfit for several hours.
12. Can a ready-made blouse be altered?
Many ready-made blouses can be altered, but how much adjustment is possible depends on their construction, seam allowance, embroidery and design. Common alterations may include adjusting the sides, sleeves or length. More complicated changes to heavily embroidered or embellished garments should be handled by a tailor experienced with Indian ethnic wear.
Choosing Your Indian Clothing Size Online
13. Is my Indian clothing size the same as my regular Canadian clothing size?
Not necessarily. Sizing can vary between brands, manufacturers and individual styles. You might wear one size in Western clothing and another in a particular Indian kurta. Even two Indian clothing brands can use slightly different measurements for the same labelled size.
For that reason, don't purchase solely based on whether the tag says S, M, L or XL. Use the actual measurements in the product size chart whenever possible.
14. What should I do if I'm between two sizes?
First consider the garment's fabric and intended silhouette. For a loose or relaxed design, the smaller of the two sizes may sometimes still provide sufficient room. With a structured garment that offers little stretch, choosing the larger size can provide more flexibility.
Also consider where your measurements differ. If the smaller size fits your waist but doesn't accommodate your bust, choosing solely according to the waist measurement could result in an uncomfortable fit. When uncertain, contact the Aromie team before placing your order.
15. How should I measure myself before ordering Indian clothes online?
For the most useful measurements, you'll generally want to know your bust, waist and hips. Depending on the garment, shoulder width and desired garment length can also be useful.
Use a flexible measuring tape and keep it comfortably against your body rather than pulling it excessively tight. Measure over light clothing where possible. Then compare your measurements with the size chart shown for the product you're considering. Don't rely on the size of an outfit you purchased from another brand, because sizing standards can differ.
Buying Indian Clothes Online in Canada: Check the Size Chart First
When shopping for Indian clothing online in Canada, spending a few minutes checking measurements can prevent many common sizing problems.
Remember these three things: check the individual product size chart, consider the fabric and intended fit, and don't rely exclusively on your usual size label.
This is especially important when ordering an outfit for a wedding, Diwali, Onam, Eid, a cultural event or another occasion with a fixed date. Ordering ahead gives you time to try on the outfit and arrange minor alterations if necessary.
Aromie carries Indian ethnic wear for women, men and children from ready stock in Canada.
Shop Indian ethnic wear online in Canada
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Still unsure about sizing? Contact Aromie before ordering and we'll be happy to help you choose based on the available product measurements.
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