If sizing wasn’t confusing enough – here’s the real reason these sizes share similar names
If you’ve ever found yourself completely puzzled while shopping for clothes, you’re definitely not alone in that feeling.
It’s a common experience where a piece fits perfectly at one store, but at another, it’s either way too snug or far too loose.
While it’s tempting to blame the store’s inconsistent sizing—which does happen—it might actually be because you’re unknowingly wearing a different size altogether.
Clothes shopping can be tedious at the best of times, but XXL men and women have to factor in an additional inconvenience
This shopping mix-up was highlighted by a TikToker who tried on the same shirt in two distinct sizes.
Plus-size content creator Makayla Smith shared her thoughts with her audience, captioning her video: “Should I make a video explaining the difference between XXL and 2XL??”
@itsmakaylasmith Should I make a video explaining the difference between XXL and 2XL?? 🤔 #plussizeproblems #plussizeexperience #sizingproblems #plussizetiktok ♬ stream escapism – #1 worth it. stan
The fashion influencer, who has gained over 45,000 followers on TikTok, has posted several videos explaining the differences between these sizes.
In one of her posts, she clarified: “They are usually cut a bit differently, which 2XL being larger and made with plus size bodies in mind.”
This shows that you essentially have two fit options for the same size—although Smith does mention that 2XL tends to be a bit bigger.
Surprised by this revelation, one user commented: “WHAT. And this comes from someone who is plus size lmao.”
Another shared their insight: “I’m also xxl/2x my professor told me that XXL are is based on ‘straight’ misses category while 2X is in the ‘plus’ women’s category.”
A retail worker explained further: “Retail worker here – xxl is still considered ‘straight sizing’ and basically just a larger size. 2X is made from a plus size pattern.”
From my perspective as a large, it might seem like XXL/2XL wearers have an advantage, choosing their preferred fit. But it’s clear those in the plus-size community feel differently about this.
One person expressed their frustration: “Omg JUST GIVE US UNITS PPPLLLLZZZ. INCHES. CMS. ANYTHING,”
A plus-sized person may have to try on both XXL and 2XL to understand which fits better
Another curious user asked: “I never realized this. What are the biggest differences that you notice between the sizes?”
Smith responded by saying: “Length I notice most! Usually some more width and longer sleeves as well. It has to do with XXL being straight sizing vs 2XL being plus sizing.”
Adding to the discussion, another user commented: “Thank you!!! i have to tell people this for christmas time, i tell them please go to plus size sections cause sizing is F***DD.”
So, if sizing wasn’t complicated enough already—well, it just got a bit more confusing!
