What Does Standard Size or Free Size Mean in Pakistani Women's Clothing?
For years, Pakistani women bought readymade kurtas from the bazaar by asking one simple question: "Standard size hai?" The shopkeeper would hold the shirt up, and that was enough. However, online shopping has changed the way we buy clothes. You can't hold the shirt up, sizes differ from brand to brand, and words like Standard and Free Size appear on product pages with no explanation. This guide explains what these sizes really mean, who they fit, and when you should choose your own size instead. We use the same sizes on our ready to wear collection.
What Is Standard Size?
In the Pakistani readymade market, Standard size means one general size made to fit most women with an average build. In practice it sits between Small and Medium. Standard kameez are usually cut with a little room around the chest and hips, so one shirt can suit women whose measurements fall anywhere across the Small to Medium range.
That's why many brands, wholesalers and local shops still sell their basic kurtas, 2 piece and 3 piece suits in Standard size only. It keeps production simple and fits the largest number of customers.
Is Free Size the Same as Standard Size?
Mostly, yes. In Pakistan the two terms are used for the same idea: one size that fits a range. The difference is in the cut:
- Standard size is used for regular kameez shalwar and suits, and fits like a Small to Medium.
- Free Size is used for loose garments that are designed to fit many body types, such as abayas, kaftans, loose tops with belts, dupattas and scarves. Their loose fit, belts or elastic make the size flexible.
So a Free Size abaya can comfortably fit more women than a Standard size fitted kurta.
Standard Size Measurements
Here is how Standard size compares with our Small and Medium. All measurements are of the finished garment, in inches.
| Measurement | Small (S) | Standard / Free Size | Medium (M) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK / US size | UK 10 / US 6 | UK 10–12 / US 6–8 | UK 12 / US 8 |
| Shoulder | 14.5" | 14.5"–15" | 15" |
| Chest | 36" | 36"–40" | 40" |
| Waist | 31" | 31"–33" | 33" |
| Hip | 38" | 38"–42" | 42" |
| Trouser length | 39" | 39"–40" | 40" |
Shirt length changes with the style (short kurti, long kameez or frock). See the full chart on our size chart page.
Will Standard Size Fit Me? A 2-Minute Check
- Take a kameez that fits you well and lay it flat.
- Measure straight across the chest, just under the arms, and double the number.
- If it is between 36 and 40 inches, Standard size will usually fit you.
- If it is under 36 inches, choose XS or S. If it is over 40 inches, choose L or XL.
Check the shoulder too. If your shoulders are broad, a Standard shirt can feel tight even when the chest fits.
When Not to Choose Standard Size
- Plus size: if your chest is above 40 inches, Standard will feel tight. Choose L, XL or your own measurements.
- Petite or very slim: Standard may look loose and long. XS or S will look neater.
- Fitted styles: straight, fitted kurtas and short kurtis need the exact size. Loose styles, frocks and abayas are more forgiving.
- Tall women: sleeve and shirt length may be short. Ask us to adjust the length.
That's why most of our readymade suits come in XS, S, M, L and XL, and many also offer a Customize option.
Unstitched? Get It Stitched in Your Size
If you buy an unstitched suit, you don't have to worry about Standard size at all. Choose "Stitched" on the product page and our AT80 Stitching Studio will stitch it from our size chart for Rs. 600, or to your own measurements for Rs. 800.
Before You Buy: Quick Facts
- Sizes: most readymade suits come in XS to XL. Abayas, scarves and some tops come in Free Size.
- Standard size = between Small and Medium (chest 36"–40", UK 10–12).
- Stitching: Rs. 600 by size chart, Rs. 800 to your measurements, urgent 3-day stitching in Pakistan for Rs. 500 extra.
- Exchange: 30-day exchange on ready-stock items that are unworn with tags. Stitched-to-measure and customised items can't be exchanged unless they arrive faulty.
- Delivery: free in Pakistan on orders of Rs. 2,000 and above, with Cash on Delivery. Worldwide shipping to the UK, USA, UAE and more.
Discover Readymade Suits in Every Size at AT Online Store
Every readymade suit at AT Online Store is made by AT80 Group in Faisalabad, from our own mill to our own stitching studio, so you get the right fit at mill prices. Explore our ready to wear collection, and if you're not sure which size to pick, WhatsApp us on +92 347 0630598 with your measurements and we'll help you choose.
FAQs
Is Standard size Small or Medium?
Standard size sits between the two. It fits most women who wear a Small or Medium, around UK size 10 to 12.
Is Free Size the same as One Size?
Yes. Free Size and One Size both mean a single size designed to fit a range of body types, usually through a loose cut, belt or elastic.
What if the Standard size doesn't fit me?
Ready-stock items can be exchanged within 30 days if they are unworn and have their tags. For the best fit, choose your exact size or order stitched to your measurements.
