Elie Tahari is a designer brand specializing in refined, sophisticated apparel, often including tailored professional wear. This focus on high-end construction frequently raises questions about sizing consistency compared to mass-market brands. Understanding the brand’s intended silhouette is key to determining the appropriate size. This analysis addresses the common perception that the brand runs small and provides guidance for navigating its fit across different clothing categories.
Understanding the Brand’s Fit Philosophy
The perception that Elie Tahari clothing runs small is common among consumers accustomed to contemporary or vanity sizing found in major retail chains. The brand adheres to traditional “designer sizing,” favoring a closer, tailored silhouette designed to skim the body. This structured approach means the actual garment measurements are often smaller than what the letter size might represent in a looser-fitting brand.
The brand focuses on structured pieces, utilizing precise pattern-making to achieve a refined, body-conscious look. Because these designs eliminate excess fabric and follow the body’s natural contours, they offer less tolerance for variation. Buyers accustomed to a looser fit may find the true-to-size Tahari garment feels restrictive, leading to the assumption that the item is undersized. This design philosophy prioritizes a sleek appearance over a forgiving fit.
Sizing Differences Across Garment Categories
The difference in perceived size is most pronounced in the brand’s tailored items, such as jackets, blouses, and sheath dresses. These garments rely on precise tailoring across the shoulders, bust, and waist, where the fit must be exact to maintain the intended structure. Consequently, many consumers need to size up in these pieces, especially if they plan on layering or require extra room in the chest area.
Bottoms, including tailored trousers and pencil skirts, also exhibit an exacting fit, particularly through the waistline. Unlike modern stretch brands, Elie Tahari’s woven bottoms offer less forgiveness, demanding a precise measurement for comfortable closure. The lack of give means the waist dimension listed on the size chart is the practical maximum for the wearer.
Conversely, pieces designed for movement and drape, such as knitwear, flowing silk blouses, and untailored shift dresses, tend to run closer to standard sizing. These garments are intentionally cut with more volume to achieve a relaxed or fluid aesthetic. Since they are not constrained by the precise tailoring tolerances of a structured blazer, they often feel true-to-size or even slightly generous.
Actionable Steps for Choosing Your Size
To overcome sizing confusion, disregard the familiar letter size designation (S, M, L) and focus on the brand’s specific body measurement charts. The most reliable method involves measuring your bust, natural waist, and hips. Compare these figures directly to the brand’s published specifications for the garment type. This process ensures the closest possible fit, regardless of the size label.
The fabric composition also plays a significant role. Items constructed from 100% woven materials, such as wool or silk, have virtually zero mechanical stretch and require precise measurements for a comfortable fit. Pieces that incorporate a small percentage of elastane or spandex blend offer a slight stretch, which can accommodate minor variations or provide greater comfort during movement.
The best size choice depends on the wearer’s preferred fit. To achieve the brand’s signature body-skimming, tailored look, select the size that aligns perfectly with your measurements. If you prefer a more comfortable or relaxed fit, especially in structured items, sizing up by one increment is a practical approach.