Overview
EN ISO 8559-2:2025 - "Size designation of clothes - Part 2: Primary and secondary dimension indicators (ISO 8559-2:2025)" is a CEN-endorsed international standard that defines which body measurements are used to designate garment sizes. It builds on ISO 8559-1 (anthropometric definitions) and establishes a consistent, consumer-oriented size designation system based on body dimensions rather than garment measurements.
Key topics and requirements
- Primary and secondary dimensions: Specifies the primary dimension (PD) used to indicate basic garment size (expressed in cm) and optional secondary dimensions (SD) that refine fit information (expressed in cm; some exceptions such as kg for pantyhose).
- Scope by garment type: Lists PD and SD for a wide range of garments (men’s, women’s, boys’ and girls’ outer garments, suits, trousers/shorts, skirts, dresses, knits, shirts, underwear, headwear, gloves, etc.). See Table 1 in the standard for specifics by garment type.
- Definitions: Includes terms such as PD, SD, cup size (bust minus underbust girth), and interval (difference between adjacent table values).
- Labelling and marking: Describes methods and examples for displaying size designation on labels and tags (Annex A provides label examples).
- Supporting information: Annex B (new in this edition) gives guidance on supplemental size information that can accompany the primary designation.
- Normative reference: ISO 8559-1:2017 for measurement definitions and methods.
- Edition: Second edition (2025), superseding EN ISO 8559-2:2020.
Practical applications
- Manufacturers and pattern graders: Use PD/SD rules to create internationally consistent size ranges and size charts.
- Retailers and e‑commerce platforms: Improve product labelling and online size guides to help consumers choose the correct size and reduce returns.
- Digital fitting and size‑recommendation services: Map user body measurements to standardised size indicators for better fit prediction.
- Brand/merchandise planners: Apply standardised size designations for assortment planning and inventory management.
- Regulators and standards bodies: Reference for consumer information and labelling requirements.
- Sustainability advocates: Supports UN Goal 12 (responsible consumption/production) by preserving clear size information across supply chains.
Related standards and notes
- ISO 8559 series (Part 1: anthropometric definitions) - mandatory reference for measurement methods.
- EN ISO 8559-2:2025 was approved by CEN and is intended for adoption as national standards across CEN member bodies.
- The system is explicitly based on body measurements, not finished garment dimensions - garment allowances remain a designer/manufacturer responsibility.
Keywords: EN ISO 8559-2:2025, size designation, primary and secondary dimensions, clothing sizing, body measurements, garment labelling, ISO 8559, CEN.
