How To · Fashion · Wear
Order multiple sizes online without the regret
Online sizing is a gamble, but it doesn't have to be. Here's how to hedge your bets by ordering multiple sizes—and keeping your return window intact.
5 min read · IrisThe frustration of ordering online is real: you can't try anything on. So you guess your size, cross your fingers, and hope. But there's a smarter way. Instead of playing size roulette, order two or three sizes at once, keep what fits, and return the rest. It's not cheating—it's using the system as designed.
The catch? You need a plan. Not all retailers make this easy, return windows are finite, and ordering blindly can rack up shipping costs. This guide walks you through the logistics so you can size-test without waste or buyer's remorse.
Order with intention, not panic. Know your return window before you click buy.
What you'll need.
- 01Size chart (from the retailer's website)
- 02Measurements of a garment that fits you well
- 03Sticky notes or safety pins
- 04Your phone (for photos or notes)
- 05A mirror
- 06Return label or prepaid shipping
Step one · 1 minute
Check the return policy first
Before you add anything to your cart, read the fine print. How many days do you have to return? Is return shipping free, or will it cost you? Some retailers offer free returns; others charge. If you're ordering three sizes and paying $8 per return, that's $16 you didn't budget for. A few retailers (Everlane, Uniqlo, many luxury brands) offer free returns within 30–60 days. Others (fast fashion, some direct-to-consumer) charge or have shorter windows. This determines whether multi-size ordering is worth your time.
Screenshot the return policy. Policies change, and you want proof of what you agreed to.
Step two · 2 minutes
Order in a logical size range
Don't order XS, M, and XL. That's wasteful. Instead, order the size you think you are, plus one size up and one size down. If you're usually a 6, order a 4, 6, and 8. If you're between sizes, order the two sizes you're torn between. The goal is to narrow down, not to cast the widest net. This keeps shipping costs reasonable and makes returns less of a hassle. Check the size chart (yes, actually look at it) and note any measurements that seem off—some brands run small, some run large, and some are inconsistent.
Use the same order for all sizes if possible. It's easier to return three items from one shipment than three separate orders.
Step three · 1 minute
Label or photograph each size as it arrives
When your package lands, don't just toss all three sizes into your closet. Immediately photograph or label each item with its size. Use a sticky note, a safety pin, or your phone's camera—whatever keeps you from trying on a size 8 and forgetting whether you already ruled it out. This sounds obvious, but it's easy to lose track when you're juggling three versions of the same sweater.
Try them on in the same order (smallest to largest, or vice versa). Your brain will remember the progression better.
Step four · 2 minutes
Try on with your actual styling intention
Don't just try on the garment. Wear it the way you'd actually wear it. If it's a blazer, wear it over a shirt. If it's a dress, wear it with the shoes and undergarments you'd pair it with. Fit changes dramatically depending on layering, undergarments, and proportions. A size 6 might fit perfectly in isolation but feel off when you layer it. Give yourself at least 15 minutes in each size—move around, sit down, raise your arms. Fit isn't just about whether it buttons; it's about whether you feel comfortable and confident.
Try the smallest size first. If it's too tight, you'll know immediately. If it fits, you've found your answer.
Step five · 2 minutes
Decide on the keeper before you return
Once you've tried all three sizes, pick your winner. Don't overthink this. Which size felt best? Which one required zero adjustments? That's your answer. Now prepare the other two for return. Check the retailer's return instructions: Do you need a label? Can you drop it off in-store, or does it go back via mail? Some retailers offer QR codes or prepaid labels; others require you to print your own. Do this immediately while the return window is fresh. Don't wait a week.
Keep the tags on the items you're returning. Most retailers won't accept returns without them.
Step six · 1 minute
Track your returns to completion
Drop off or mail your returns, then track them. Most retailers will email you a confirmation once the return is processed. Wait for that email before you consider the transaction closed. If a return gets lost, you want to know immediately so you can dispute it. Once you see the refund hit your account, you're done. Now you have one perfectly fitting garment and your money back for the other two.
Save the return confirmation email. If there's ever a dispute, you'll have proof.
How to know it works
Multi-size ordering works when you end up with one garment that fits perfectly and two returns processed without issue. You've saved time and mental energy by avoiding the guessing game. If you're paying more in return shipping than you saved in time, or if you're keeping items that don't quite fit, the strategy backfired.
Questions at the mirror.
What if the retailer doesn't allow multiple orders from the same account?
Some retailers flag accounts for multi-size ordering and may restrict you. If this happens, contact customer service and explain that you're testing sizes. Most will work with you. If they won't, you can try ordering from a different account or device, but this is a gray area—read the terms first.
Is it unethical to order multiple sizes with no intention of keeping all of them?
No. Retailers build returns into their business model. They expect a percentage of orders to be returned. You're using the system as intended. The only caveat: don't abuse it by ordering 10 sizes or treating it like a rental service. Order strategically, decide quickly, and return promptly.
What if nothing fits?
Return all three sizes and try a different brand or style. Some brands simply don't work for your body. Don't force it. The goal is to find something that fits, not to make something work.
Should I always order multiple sizes, or only sometimes?
Only when you're genuinely uncertain. If you know your size in a brand, order one. If you're trying a new brand, new style, or the size chart looks confusing, order multiple. It's a tool, not a rule.