A dress may be marked Small, Italian 40 or European 36. These labels can look completely different, even when they point to a similar place on a general size conversion chart.

Understanding the numbering makes shopping easier, particularly when you are moving between international brands. It is also important to remember that a conversion is only the beginning. The shape of the dress, the fabric and the way you prefer your clothes to feel all influence the final choice.

Why Italian and European sizes look different

Italian clothing uses its own numbered system. A piece labelled Italian 40 will usually appear as European 36 in a general conversion guide. The same size may also be described as Small, UK 8 or US 4.

This does not mean that one number is better or smaller than another. It simply means that the labels belong to different systems.

The chart is a useful reference, but sizing is not identical across every fashion brand. On ELLY product pages, always begin with the size format shown beside the item rather than assuming that every piece uses the same type of label.

What does an Italian Small mean?

When a product is described as an Italian Small, the word Small is the international letter size. In a general conversion, this corresponds to Italian 40 and European 36.

The product itself may show only one of these labels. That is why the heading of the chart matters. A number 40 under Italian sizing does not mean the same thing as a number 40 under European sizing.

Begin with the size system shown on the product page

Before choosing, look at the options available on the individual product page. Some ELLY pieces use letter sizes such as XS, S, M, L and XL. Others use Italian or European numbers. Denim may use a waist based size that follows a different system.

If the product offers Italian 38, 40, 42, 44 and 46, use the Italian column. If it offers XS to XL, use the international column. Do not move between the columns unless you need to compare the label with a size you already know.

The cut of the dress matters

Two dresses carrying the same size can feel different because they have different shapes. A close fitting bodice follows the body more closely than a relaxed shift dress. A defined waist may feel more precise than a loose or softly draped silhouette.

Look at where the design is meant to sit. For a fitted dress, the bust, waist and hips may all influence comfort. For a flowing dress, the most important area may be the shoulders or bodice. The photographs and product description help you understand the intended shape.

Fabric changes the way a size feels

Stretch fabric offers more flexibility than a firm woven fabric. An elasticated or adjustable detail can also give the garment more room, while structured tailoring usually creates a more defined fit.

This is why the fabric description should be read together with the size label. If you are deciding between two sizes, a fitted woven piece with little stretch may feel more comfortable in the larger size. A relaxed or stretch design may offer more flexibility.

What to check before choosing

• Confirm whether the product uses international, Italian, European or denim sizing.
• Use the matching column in the conversion guide.
• Look at whether the silhouette is fitted, regular, relaxed or oversized.
• Read the fabric description and check whether the material has stretch.
• Notice adjustable straps, elasticated sections, belts or wrap closures.
• Consider how you prefer the dress to feel when you sit, walk and move.

“Do not let the number on a label change how you feel about your body. Choose the size that lets the design fall beautifully and allows you to move with ease.”

Eliane Haddad, founder and designer of ELLY

Choose the dress, then read its fit

The size label is there to guide you, not define you. Start with the design you love, identify the sizing system used on its product page, then consider the cut and fabric before making your choice.

Explore the latest pieces in the Spring Summer 2026 collection, browse all ELLY dresses, or narrow your search to maxi dresses, midi dresses and evening and occasion dresses.

If you remain unsure between two sizes, contact ELLY with the name of the piece you are considering. We will help you read the design and choose with greater confidence.