jeans
how to measure
When shopping for jeans the first number is the size & the second is the inseam or length i.e W28/L32
Measuring a pair of jeans you already own and comparing with our individual size charts where available should help you determine the best fit

Lay a pair of your jeans flat on a smooth and even surface, then measure:
1. Waist: measured straight across the top edge of the waistband
2. Rise: measured from the crotch seam to the top edge of the waistband. The rise determines where the jeans sit on your body:
- low-rise styles sit on the hips
- mid and high-rise fits sit closer to or at the waist
3. Inseam: measured along the inside seam from crotch point to the bottom hem. This determines the leg length
Optional:
4. Thigh: measured just below the crotch seam, across the widest part of the thigh
5. Leg opening: measured straight across the bottom hem
Compare the measurements to the size chart to find the best fit!
To find circumference double all measurements except for inseam.
size charts
Measurements vary by style and intended fit. See individual charts below.
general size conversion

LEG LENGTHS
PETITE - 30 INSEAM
REGULAR - 32 INSEAM
TALL - 34 INSEAM
*Refer to individual size charts for style specific inseam lengths.
Denim Q&A: Everything You Wanted to Know About Fit & Feel
What do the numbers mean when shopping for jeans?
When you see something like W28/L32, the first number (W) is the waist size, and the second (L) is the inseam, or length. For example, W28/L32 means a size 28 waist and a 32 inseam.
Are Dr Denim jeans true to size?
Yes - our jeans are generally true to size, but the right fit also depends on the intended style and your personal preference.
A size 24 is equivalent to an AU 6 or XS, but fit varies slightly between cuts. For example, a regular mid-rise style will feel different to a baggy, oversized fit, even if they’re the same size on paper.
Fabric weight and composition also influence how jeans feel on the body.
- Rigid denim (no stretch) will give and soften with wear, especially at high-pressure points like the waist and knees.
- Stretch denim will have more immediate comfort and shape recovery.
Keep in mind there’s a small industry-standard tolerance in garment making. Since each pair is hand-sewn, slight variations over or under the listed measurements are completely normal.
You might also notice small differences between washes. For instance, darker indigo or black dyes can cause a tighter initial feel, while vintage-washed styles often arrive pre-softened and slightly looser due to the treatment process.
How can I figure out my size?
For the most accurate fit, we always recommend measuring a pair of jeans you already love and comparing them to our size charts.
Lay them flat on a smooth, even surface before measuring.
A quick way to find your denim size is to use your usual AU or alpha size as a guide.
Here’s a simple cheat sheet:
- Size 6 / XS = 24
- Size 8 / S = 26
- Size 10 / M = 28
- Size 12 / L = 30
- Size 14 / XL = 32
Use our chat support for more help or get in touch with our team.
What’s the difference between Petite, Regular, and Tall lengths?
Each length refers to the inseam:
- Petite: 30" (about 74–75cm)
- Regular: 32" (about 79–80cm)
- Tall: 34" (about 84–85cm)
Check individual size charts for specific inseam measurements.
What’s the difference between rigid, comfort stretch, and high stretch denim?
The way denim fits and feels depends on its fabric composition, especially the amount of elastane (stretch fiber) in the fabric.
- Rigid denim (100% cotton): Has no stretch and fits firm at first. Over time, it softens and loosens at high-pressure points like the waist and knees. This is the style that truly “breaks in” with wear, creating a more personal fit.
- Comfort stretch denim (1% elastane, 99% cotton): Offers just enough give to make it comfortable while keeping its shape. It softens slightly with wear and won’t loosen as much as rigid denim over time.
- High stretch denim (2% elastane or more): Feels snug from the start and stays close to the body. The elastane helps the cotton recover after stretching, but over time, repeated wear and washing naturally soften the fabric.
To keep stretch denim in its best shape, always wash in cold water and never tumble dry. Heat breaks down elastane fibers faster, which can reduce stretch and recovery over time.
FIND YOUR FIT
- STRAIGHT
- RELAXED
- WIDE
- SKINNY
FIND YOUR RISE
- Low Rise
- Mid Rise
- High-rise