Why do women’s clothing sizes seem to vary between different shops way more than men’s clothing?

Question

I am tall and plus sized and it is a nightmare to know what size I am supposed to be of anything. I am anywhere from a size UK 12 to UK 18 depending on the brand / item etc.

In: Other

Answer 1

Women’s clothing sizes are arbitrary but measurements (bust, waist, high hip and hip) are not. The most efficient thing to do, even though it’s tedious, is to know your measurements and check each brand’s sizing chart to know what size you are.  

 EDIT: this method is less likely to work for fast fashion brands because their sizing can be very inconsistent. It is useful for resellers like Poshmark etc though since measurements are often included.