Sizing an abaya or kimono is not like sizing a blazer. The garment is designed to drape, to flow, to move — and the fit question is less about tight or loose than it is about length, shoulder width, and how the fabric falls at different heights. This guide is for every KIMAIAN customer who has ever wondered whether to size up, size down, or trust the chart.
How KIMAIAN sizes are structured
Our kimonos — Leyla, Yasmine, Julie, Niya, Nour, Charlotte, Seyda, Jade, Manel — come in four sizes: S, M, L, and XL. These are French standard sizes. Our abayas — Camélia, Reem, Ayla, Kezyah, Kiara, Luna, Naïa, Maya, Dinah — are sized differently: XS/52 through XL/60. The number refers to the French clothing size code (tour de poitrine), which runs in increments of 4 cm.
Kimonos: sizing by bust and height
For kimonos, the key measurement is your bust circumference. Our kimonos are designed with a generous, flowing fit — they are not structured garments and should not feel tight across the shoulders or chest. If you are between two sizes, we recommend sizing up for more drape and movement.
- S: bust 82–86 cm, height 155–163 cm
- M: bust 86–92 cm, height 160–168 cm
- L: bust 92–98 cm, height 165–173 cm
- XL: bust 98–106 cm, height 168–176 cm
At 160 cm, a size S or M will typically reach ankle length. At 170 cm, the same piece will fall just above the ankle. Both are beautiful — the choice is yours.
Abayas: sizing by bust and length
Abayas are sized by the French system (52 through 60). The primary measurement is the tour de poitrine (bust circumference). Our abayas are cut long — designed to fall to the floor or just above, depending on your height.
- XS / 52: bust 84–88 cm
- S / 54: bust 88–92 cm
- M / 56: bust 92–96 cm
- L / 58: bust 96–100 cm
- XL / 60: bust 100–106 cm
If you are petite (under 160 cm), an abaya in size S or M will typically reach the floor — you may want to consider whether you prefer that full-length effect or a slight lift. If you are taller (above 172 cm), sizing up in the abayas will give you a little more length.
When in doubt, size up
All KIMAIAN pieces are designed to be worn with ease. A piece that has a little extra width through the body will drape better and move more beautifully than one that feels constrained. We always recommend sizing up if you are on the boundary between two sizes.
Still unsure?
Write to us at contact@kimaian.com. We respond to every message personally, and we know our pieces well enough to tell you, given your measurements, which size will work best.