Madewell Sizing: Does Madewell Run Small, Big or True to Size?

Madewell generally runs true to size, but a single brand-wide answer misses what matters: rise, stretch and silhouette. The useful version of the madewell size chart is a starting point, then a check of each style's notes. Madewell says women's jean size 28 corresponds to a 29-inch waist and typically US 8, while urging shoppers to check waist and hip measurements. Its chart says jeans generally run true to size, although fit varies by style, and tops are usually true to size unless the cut is intentionally loose or oversized. The brand also offers women's Plus sizes 14W to 24W or 1X to 3X, alongside Petite and Tall options across several categories. Its Curvy denim has a contoured no-gap waistband and extra room through hips and thighs, a useful detail if a standard waist pulls. Even within these picks, stretch changes the feel: the Short Straight Jeans are super-stretch, while the Madewell x Shopbop Ultimate Wide-Leg Jeans are non-stretch. So I would use the chart to pick the starting number, then trust the exact style notes and your preferred ease.

The denim here gives a good real-world size comparison. The Skinny Jean is mid-rise with plenty of stretch, a 29-inch inseam, and an 11 1/8-inch rise in size 27, so it is the leaner, close-to-leg option. The Wide-Leg Jean in Super Stretch Denim sits higher, has a 30-inch inseam, and a 21-inch leg opening; it stays fitted through the hip and thigh before opening out. On Shopbop, the Short Straight Jeans In Super Stretch Denim measure 10.25 inches at the rise and 29.25 inches at the inseam in size 26. The Madewell x Shopbop Ultimate Wide-Leg Jeans use non-stretch denim with an 11-inch rise, 30-inch inseam, and 22-inch opening in size 26. For sizing, try the waistband where you want it to sit, then compare rise and inseam before deciding. If you dislike a firm waistband, the stretch styles are the safer first try; if you want a looser drape, the non-stretch wide leg gives more room in the leg but still needs a comfortable waist.

Top sizing is less about a number and more about how much room you want through the shoulder and body. Shopbop's Easy Shirt in Washed Poplin is lightweight, non-stretch cotton poplin and its measured length is 27.25 inches in XS, and Shopbop's model wears XS. The Sophie Top is a lightweight, non-stretch, semi-sheer cotton voile with a square neckline and sleeveless cut. Madewell's Georgina Top is a regular-fit, hip-length blouse with a ruffled V-neck, blouson sleeves and pintucks; sizes XXS through XL were purchasable when I checked. The Signature Knit Cardigan has a slim fit and runs small based on six reviews; it is a pointelle knit with a 20.5-inch body length, and only XS and S were still available during my check. If you want layering room, decide on the garment shape first: the Easy Shirt can be worn looser, while that cardigan is deliberately close. Madewell's size chart says tops tend to run true to size, but advises checking the style notes for deliberately oversized cuts.

The flats show why shoe sizing deserves its own check. The Mylie Mesh Ballet Flats on Shopbop have a mesh upper, leather trim and a cushioned footbed; the Remy Mary Jane has a cowhide upper, padded footbed and sculptural buckle, and Shopbop says it runs small and recommends sizing up. On Madewell's site, the Greta Mary Jane Flat is leather with an elastic strap and Cloudlift Lite padding, and Madewell recommends ordering a half size smaller because the unlined shoe stretches. The Mylie Ballet Flat in Leather has a smooth leather upper and lining and is described as a fitted glove design; the product page showed several purchasable sizes when checked. That is four flats with different fit clues, which is exactly why I would not transfer one shoe size blindly across a whole wardrobe. For Madewell jeans, start with measurements, then choose between stretch and rigid denim and the right length. For tops, use true-to-size as a base. If you are between sizes or buying shoes, the individual fit note is more useful than a general brand reputation.