EU size 42
Updated: 14 July 2026
European clothing size 42 is XL in letter sizes, UK 14 in Britain, US 10 in the States, 44 in France and 48 in Italy. The guide measurements behind it are 96 cm (37.8 in) bust, 80 cm (31.5 in) waist and 104 cm (40.9 in) hips.
Size 42 in every system
| EU / DE | International | UK | US | FR | IT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 38 | M | 10 | 6 | 40 | 44 |
| 40 | L | 12 | 8 | 42 | 46 |
| 42 | XL | 14 | 10 | 44 | 48 |
| 44 | XXL | 16 | 12 | 46 | 50 |
| 46 | XXL | 18 | 14 | 48 | 52 |
The measurements behind size 42
| EU / DE | International | Bust | Waist | Hips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| 46 | XXL | 104 cm / 40.9 in | 88 cm / 34.6 in | 112 cm / 44.1 in |
These are the guide values the standard chart uses to define the size. If your bust is around 96 cm, size 42 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 42 does not fit
One size down is 40 (92 cm bust, 100 cm hips), one size up is 44 (100 cm bust, 108 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 42?
As guide values 96 cm (37.8 in) bust, 80 cm (31.5 in) waist and 104 cm (40.9 in) hips. Brands differ from this.
What is EU size 42 in letter sizes?
XL. In the UK it is size 14, in the US 10.
What is EU size 42 in Italian and French sizes?
Italy 48, France 44. Italian sizes run 6 numbers above the European ones, French sizes 2.