EU size 40
Updated: 14 July 2026
European clothing size 40 is L in letter sizes, UK 12 in Britain, US 8 in the States, 42 in France and 46 in Italy. The guide measurements behind it are 92 cm (36.2 in) bust, 76 cm (29.9 in) waist and 100 cm (39.4 in) hips.
Size 40 in every system
| EU / DE | International | UK | US | FR | IT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 36 | S | 8 | 4 | 38 | 42 |
| 38 | M | 10 | 6 | 40 | 44 |
| 40 | L | 12 | 8 | 42 | 46 |
| 42 | XL | 14 | 10 | 44 | 48 |
| 44 | XXL | 16 | 12 | 46 | 50 |
The measurements behind size 40
| EU / DE | International | Bust | Waist | Hips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 36 | S | 84 cm / 33.1 in | 68 cm / 26.8 in | 92 cm / 36.2 in |
| 38 | M | 88 cm / 34.6 in | 72 cm / 28.3 in | 96 cm / 37.8 in |
| 40 | L | 92 cm / 36.2 in | 76 cm / 29.9 in | 100 cm / 39.4 in |
| 42 | XL | 96 cm / 37.8 in | 80 cm / 31.5 in | 104 cm / 40.9 in |
| 44 | XXL | 100 cm / 39.4 in | 84 cm / 33.1 in | 108 cm / 42.5 in |
These are the guide values the standard chart uses to define the size. If your bust is around 92 cm, size 40 is your starting point. Whether the garment fits in the end comes down to how the brand cuts it.
How to measure yourself
Measure in your underwear with a soft tape. Three measurements are enough:
- Bust: around the fullest part, with the tape level across your back.
- Waist: around the narrowest part, usually a hand width above your navel.
- Hips: around the fullest part of your seat.
Keep the tape snug but not tight. The values in the chart are guide values, not a promise. If you fall between two sizes, go by your bust for tops and by your hips for trousers and skirts.
If 40 does not fit
One size down is 38 (88 cm bust, 96 cm hips), one size up is 42 (96 cm bust, 104 cm hips). In this part of the chart each step is 4 cm of bust and hips.
If you land in between, the larger number is usually the smarter pick. Taking a garment in is easier than letting it out.
Common questions
What are the measurements for EU size 40?
As guide values 92 cm (36.2 in) bust, 76 cm (29.9 in) waist and 100 cm (39.4 in) hips. Brands differ from this.
What is EU size 40 in letter sizes?
L. In the UK it is size 12, in the US 8.
What is EU size 40 in Italian and French sizes?
Italy 46, France 42. Italian sizes run 6 numbers above the European ones, French sizes 2.