Fit and measurements

Size guide

Every piece in the catalogue is a single item, so the size on the label is the size there is. This guide is here to make that label readable: how international sizing converts to Dutch sizing, and — more usefully — how the labels Cecile stocks actually fit on the body.

International sizes in Dutch numbers

The standard conversion. Dutch sizing follows the European system, so a Dutch 38 and a German 38 are the same number.

NL / EU / DEUSUKITFR
34263836
36484038
386104240
408124442
4210144644
4412164846
4614185048

Read this as a starting point rather than an answer. American and Italian labels in particular tend to run a size more generous than the table suggests — Cecile has fitted an American 8 on clients who wear a Dutch 38, where the chart would say 40. The brand notes below are what she has measured on the pieces themselves.

How the measurements are taken

Where a piece has been measured, the figures are taken flat, on the garment, not on the body:

  • Waist and bust are measured across the piece lying flat and closed. Double the figure for the way round.
  • Length runs from the highest point of the shoulder to the hem, unless a skirt or trousers, where it runs from the waistband.
  • Stretch fabrics are measured unstretched, so a jersey or silk-jersey piece will give further than the number suggests.

If you are between sizes, write to Cecile before reserving. She has the piece in her hands and can measure anything you need.

Fit notes by label

What Cecile has measured on the pieces themselves, label by label. Her own observations, not the brands' official charts.

Monique Collignon

A Dutch designer, and the label Cecile carries in the greatest depth — often the same model in several sizes and colourways at once. The fabrics are the point: linen, cotton, and a recycled-PET cloth that handles like silk but is far easier to care for.

Read the Monique Collignon notes

Diane von Furstenberg

The wrap dress is the house signature and the most forgiving thing in the catalogue: it ties, so it adjusts. Most pieces are silk or silk jersey, cut on American sizing.

Read the Diane von Furstenberg notes

Dsquared2

Italian sizing, Canadian house, cut close in principle and generous in practice. Mostly cotton — shirts, halter dresses, and pieces with the logo hardware.

Read the Dsquared2 notes

Riani

A German label, so the numbering matches Dutch sizing directly. Silk and fine cotton, neat tailoring, and co-ord sets that are sold as a pair.

Read the Riani notes

Still unsure?

Reserve the piece — it costs nothing and holds it for five days — or write to Cecile with your measurements first. She will measure the piece against them before you travel.