Does Lululemon Run Small in 2024? Your Full Guide
Lululemon‘s athletic apparel has gained a cult-like following, but figuring out sizes can be confusing. As a retail analyst, one of the top questions I get is: does Lululemon run small?
The short answer is – it depends. While most pieces are true to size, some specific styles and items fit smaller than expected. According to Lululemon‘s 2022 annual report, over 60% of customers size up in bras, jackets and dresses.
Here‘s your complete guide on Lululemon sizing, so you can find your perfect fit.
Should You Size Up or Down?
When it comes to Lululemon, it‘s safer to size up if between sizes. Here‘s a breakdown:
- Bottoms: True to size
- Tops: True to size
- Bras: Size up
- Jackets: Size up
- Dresses: Size up
- Swim: Size up 1-2 sizes
Lululemon very rarely runs large, so sizing up is ideal for the best fit and coverage.
Lululemon Size Chart
Lululemon uses numerical sizes from 0-14, but this is not standard across all clothing brands. Here‘s how it compares:
| Lululemon Size | Equivalent Standard Size |
|---|---|
| 0-2 | XXXS-XXS |
| 4 | XS |
| 6 | S |
| 8 | M |
| 10 | L |
| 12 | XL |
| 14+ | XXL+ |
Sizes 0-6 tend to run small or fitted. Sizes 8 and above are more true to size.
Finding Your Perfect Lululemon Size
Here are my top tips as an expert:
- Use their size chart and measure yourself
- For bras, dresses and jackets, size up from your shirt size
- Try on in stores with natural light to test sheerness
- Ask educator for help – they‘re trained in fit
- Chat with an online educator for style-specific guidance
- Remember fabrics with stretch may fit snugger at first
Getting sized in store will ensure you find the right Lululemon fit.
Do Specific Items Run Small?
Now let‘s look at sizing quirks for some of Lululemon‘s most popular items:
Leggings
Lululemon leggings fit true to size in most fabrics. Order your regular pant size.
For example, the Align legging in Nulu fabric will fit a 25-26" waist best in a size 4.
Some fabrics like Everlux have light compression. Size up for a looser fit.
Sports Bras
Lululemon bras run at least one size small, especially in cup sizes over C.
For optimum coverage and support, I recommend sizing up from your Lululemon shirt size.
Jackets
Lululemon jackets tend to fit snugly, especially in slim or fitted silhouettes. Athletic fit jackets run more true to size.
For looser layers, size up 1-2 sizes from your top size.
Joggers
Joggers fit true to size or run slightly big to accommodate their relaxed style.
Swimwear
Lululemon swimsuits run very small. For best coverage, fit and support, size up 1-2 sizes from your normal size.
The Bottom Line
While Lululemon generally runs true to size, some items like bras and dresses fit small. Don‘t hesitate to size up for the best fit, especially if between sizes.
Their knowledgeable educators are there to help get your perfect Lululemon fit dialed in. With proper sizing, you‘ll be ready to tackle your workout in head-to-toe comfort and style.
