ISO 8559-2:2017

Overview

ISO 8559-2:2017 - "Size designation of clothes - Part 2: Primary and secondary dimension indicators" defines how clothing sizes should be designated using body-based measurements. Used together with ISO 8559‑1 (anthropometric definitions for body measurement), this standard establishes a clear, consumer-focused size designation system based on primary and secondary dimensions (expressed in centimetres) to help manufacturers, retailers and consumers identify the body dimensions a garment is intended to fit.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Primary and secondary dimensions: The standard identifies which body measurements (primary dimension = PD, secondary dimension = SD) apply to different garment types and demographic groups (men, women, boys, girls). These are listed in Table 1 of the standard.
• Body-based (not garment) measurements: Size designation is based on wearer body measurements (e.g., chest girth, waist girth, height), not on finished garment dimensions. Designers and manufacturers still choose garment measurements and allowances separately.
• Units and special cases: Dimensions are expressed in centimetres; for some products (e.g., pantyhose) body mass (kg) can be a secondary indicator. Cup size is defined as the difference between bust girth and underbust girth where applicable.
• Range notation: Size ranges are shown as minimum–maximum (e.g., “174–178”) representing the body dimensions for which the garment is designed.
• Labelling and pictograms:
  • Use the standard pictogram (from ISO 8559‑1) where practicable to indicate dimensions and positions on the body.
  • If the pictogram is not used, numeric values must be shown together with descriptive terms (e.g., “chest girth”, “waist girth”).
  • Size designation must be clear, conspicuous and legible on labels, tags or product pages; examples are provided in Annex A.
• Placement and availability: Size information should be available at point of sale - in stores, catalogues and online.

Practical applications - who uses it

• Apparel manufacturers and designers: To standardize size labels and communicate intended wearer dimensions across product lines and markets.
• Retailers and e-commerce platforms: To display consistent, comparable size information that improves customer fit confidence and reduces returns.
• Pattern makers and technical teams: To align body-based size designations with grading rules and garment allowances.
• Quality assurance and compliance: To ensure labels meet international best practice for size designation.
• Standards bodies and regulators: As a reference for national sizing policies or labeling guidance.

Related standards

• ISO 8559-1 - Anthropometric definitions for body measurement (required companion standard for measurement positions and pictograms).

Keywords: ISO 8559-2:2017, size designation, primary and secondary dimensions, body measurements, clothing sizing, labeling, ISO 8559‑1, garment sizing, apparel manufacturers, retail sizing.