The reliable way to get the right size in steampunk clothing is to measure your body in inches and compare it with the size chart on each product page, not with your usual dress size. Pieces come from different makers, so a size M corset and a size M coat are not cut the same. If you're between two sizes, ask us before ordering. After you order, we check your measurements with you before the piece ships.
I'm Evelyn Gearhart. I've spent years sewing, styling and wearing steampunk outfits, from Midwest maker fairs to comic cons, and fit is the question I get asked most. This guide shows you how to measure in five minutes, how to read our size charts, and what to check for corsets, dresses, skirts, jackets and boots.
- Why steampunk clothing sizes vary from piece to piece
- How to take your measurements in five minutes
- How to read the size chart on a product page
- Sizing tips by garment type
- What happens after you order: the measurement check
- If the fit isn't right: 14-day returns
Why steampunk clothing sizes vary from piece to piece
Steampunk garments are not made to one universal pattern. The pieces in our range come from different makers, and each one uses its own cut and its own size chart. That is why a size M dress and a size M skirt can fit differently.
Every product page has its own size chart. Clothing is labeled with letter sizes (XS, S, M, L and up), and the chart gives the garment's measurements in inches and centimeters; some clothing charts also show the matching US size. Your own measurements are the constant: take them once, then compare them with each chart.
How to take your measurements in five minutes
You need a soft tape measure and five minutes. Measure over light clothing, keep the tape level and snug but not tight, and write every figure down in inches.
Bust, waist and hips
- Bust or chest: around the fullest point, with the tape level across your back.
- Waist: around your natural waistline, the narrowest point of your torso.
- Hips: around the fullest part of your hips and seat.
Height and weight
Stand straight against a wall, without shoes, to measure your height, and note your weight. You don't need them to pick from the chart, but keep them handy: after you order, we ask for them to confirm your size.
Footwear: foot length
Stand on a sheet of paper with your heel against a wall, mark the tip of your longest toe and measure the distance in inches. Compare that length with the chart on the boot you like, in our steampunk boots or men's steampunk boots.
How to read the size chart on a product page
Each product page has its own chart, written for that piece. Never assume one chart applies to the whole store.
US size versus garment measurement
The letter size is the label, and a US size shown on a chart (6, 8, 10 and so on) is a guide conversion. The inch rows are the real measurements, so when the two seem to disagree, trust the inches. Choose the size whose range contains your own measurement.
Between two sizes? Ask before you order
The note under each chart gives a rule of thumb: your usual size for fitted cuts, one size larger for loose cuts. For a corset or any piece you're unsure about, ask us first. Contact us for free sizing advice: email contact@steampunkoutfit.com or call +1 501-263-1608.
Sizing tips by garment type
Each garment type depends on one or two key measurements. Start with these.
Corsets
Corsets are sized from the waist, not from your dress size. Check the waist range first, then the bust for overbust styles. Browse steampunk corsets or men's steampunk corsets.
Dresses and skirts
Steampunk dresses depend mostly on bust and waist. Steampunk skirts depend on waist and hips; for floor-length styles, check the length as well.
Jackets and coats
Outerwear fits by chest and shoulder width. Think about what you'll wear underneath: a vest or a corset under a coat needs room. See women's steampunk jackets and men's steampunk jackets.
Boots
Boot charts list US, UK and EU sizes next to the foot length in inches and centimeters. Measure standing, in the socks you plan to wear, and go by the foot length.
| Garment | Key measurement | Also check |
|---|---|---|
| Corsets | Waist | Bust (overbust styles) |
| Dresses | Bust | Waist |
| Skirts | Waist | Hips |
| Jackets and coats | Chest | Shoulder width |
| Boots | Foot length | — |
What happens after you order: the measurement check
After you order, we check your measurements with you before it ships. You receive an email asking for your height and weight, or your foot length for footwear. Reply to it, and our team confirms your size, or adjusts it before shipping if your measurements point to a better fit.
Look out for that email shortly after you order. It is the step that catches a wrong size before the piece travels.
If the fit isn't right: 14-day returns
You have 14 days after receiving your item to request a return. Email contact@steampunkoutfit.com, and once your return is accepted we send instructions on how and where to send it; items sent back without a return request are not accepted. Items must be unworn or unused, with tags, in their original packaging, with proof of purchase. Return shipping is paid by you unless the item is defective or the wrong item was sent. Full details are in our Refund Policy.
In short: measure yourself once in inches, compare with the chart on each product page, ask us if you're between sizes, and reply to our measurement email after you order. That's how you get a steampunk outfit that fits.
FAQ
Why do steampunk clothing sizes differ from piece to piece?
Steampunk pieces come from different makers, each with its own pattern and size chart, so sizes are not identical from one piece to the next. A size M corset and a size M skirt are cut differently. Always use the chart on the product page.
How do I choose the right size when shopping online in the US?
Measure your bust, waist and hips in inches with a soft tape, then pick the size whose range on the product page contains your measurements. Some clothing charts also show the matching US size, but the inches are what count.
What should I do if I'm between two sizes?
Ask us before you order. The right choice depends on the fabric and cut of that piece, so we give free sizing advice at contact@steampunkoutfit.com or +1 501-263-1608.
Do you check my size after I order?
Yes. After you order, we email you to ask for your height and weight, or your foot length for footwear, then confirm or adjust the size before it ships.
How do I measure myself for a steampunk corset?
Measure your natural waist at its narrowest point in inches and compare it with the corset's waist range; for overbust styles, check the bust too. Corsets are sized from the waist, not from your dress size.
How do I find my size for steampunk boots?
Measure your foot length in inches: stand on paper with your heel against a wall, mark your longest toe and measure. Compare it with the inch column on the boot's chart.
Can I return an item if it doesn't fit?
Yes. You have 14 days after receiving your item to request a return by emailing us. Items must be unworn or unused, with tags, in their original packaging; return shipping is paid by you unless the item is defective or the wrong item was sent.
