Do you ever feel shortchanged being a woman? I am no feminist, but I’d just like to point out one grievance I have on this subject. I’m not going to discuss the fact that we are paid less than men, have to deal with an unwelcome monthly visitor and I won’t even get into the pains of pregnancy and childbirth. Those are all great reasons to complain, but today’s gripe has to do with clothes shopping.
It seems so easy for men. When a guy needs a pair of pants, he grabs the pair labeled 32 Waist, 34 Length and he’s done. Yet when a lady shops for clothes, the process is much more confusing and stress-inducing. If she’s a size 8 in brand x apparel, brand y can call her size a 14 and apparently this is all completely legal. The fact is that sizing has become just another marketing tool. Sad, isn’t it? What’s even more heartbreaking is that it is our own poor self image, likely due to Hollywood and media-induced ideals, that has precipitated the trend of vanity sizing.
This is one of the main reasons why I never buy before I try, which was no problem before I had a toddler on my hands. Now it’s a completely different story! And forget about online shopping; If an outfit doesn’t fit right, I’ll have to pay return shipping and ’round and ’round we go, whee. No doubt this is the reason why many online retailers now offer free return shipping. But who needs the hassle?
Let me introduce you to a site that will help save you time, money and aggravation. It’s called SizeWize, and it was developed by a mother of two who found herself to be just as wardrobe-challenged as I’ve been feeling lately. SizeWize translates women’s sizing for most major retailers. After you’ve provided your bust, waist and hip measurements and checked the box if you’re a petite, the site informs you what size you are across many different retailers. You can filter by clothing type (i.e. dresses, tops, pants and more) or brand name. Genius!
Another great tool on the SizeWize site is the search by closet option. This is particularly helpful if you’re buying a gift. How awkward would it be to ask your girlfriend to provide her measurements? Instead, just make a note of the brand, style and size of her favorite dress, and you’ll be provided with a listing of brands and coordinating sizes.
The best news of all? It’s completely FREE, and if you register by Valentine’s Day you’ll be entered to win a $100 gift card to any SizeWize retailer! So go on over to SizeWize and register today. There’s no reason not to!
This post was sponsored by SizeWize. I registered for this free service online and I think the idea is genius. I have not yet purchased clothing online, but now I feel I have the confidence to give it a shot.
Anonymous says
What a great resource!
Maryann says
Neat!
I am a size zero in most clothes, so I really don't have to worry….
I'm joking…