Comparison

Italian vs French Sizing

On paper, IT and FR women's sizing looks identical: both add 2 to the generic EU number. In practice, the two national fits diverge sharply in shoulder, sleeve and shoe last.

Italian cuts prioritize a defined shoulder and a slimmer bust — the typical IT 42 has narrower shoulders than an FR 42.

French cuts run longer through the sleeve and softer through the bust — Parisian labels (Sézane, Rouje) fit true to FR at the label, roomier through the arm.

Shoes: Italian luxury (Prada, Gucci, Tod's) runs narrow and long; French (Louboutin, Repetto) runs narrow with a shorter toe.

USEUITFR
0323434
2343636
4363838
6384040
8404242
10424444

Key takeaways

  • IT = EU + 2. FR = EU + 2. Labels match; cuts don't.
  • Italian: narrow shoulder, defined waist. French: longer sleeve, softer bust.
  • Both run narrow in luxury footwear — size up 0.5 vs. athletic.

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