How to Find Your Size at Böhme: Dresses and Jeans, With Real Examples

Getting the right size the first time matters more at Böhme than at most retailers. Returns must reach the store within 21 days of fulfillment. Refunds with the prepaid label cost $8.99. And some categories, such as bodysuits, can't be returned at all. Böhme's own sizing chart also warns that, because it stocks many brands, "sizes may vary item to item." The good news is that most Böhme product pages give you what you need to choose well: a measurement table for that exact item, fabric and stretch details, and the model's height and size. This guide shows how to read them, with real examples from current Böhme dresses and jeans.

Step 1: take four measurements of your own

Böhme's sizing chart says how each measurement is taken. Use a soft tape and match its method:

• Bust: around the fullest part of the bust, arms at your sides.
• Waist: around your natural waist, above the belly button and below the rib cage.
• Rise (for jeans): from crotch to waistband. Measure a pair you like rather than your body.
• Inseam (for jeans): from crotch to hem on a pair you like.

Write these down along with your height. Then find one dress and one pair of jeans you already own that fit the way you want, and measure them laid flat. Those garment measurements are your most useful reference, because Böhme's product tables measure garments too.

Step 2: know the label sizes

Böhme's dress and top sizes run from X-Small to X-Large. The tables convert them to US numeric sizes:

Jeans use waist sizes, usually 23 or 24 up to 32. Larger sizes aren't offered on most styles, so check the size selector before you set your heart on a piece.

Step 3: read the table on the product page, not a general chart

Every product has its own measurement table, and the numbers really do differ. Here are three dresses, all size X-Small, as listed on bohme.com on November 2, 2026:

These look like very different numbers for the same size. But they describe the garment, not the wearer, and stretch makes all the difference. The Danna is a stretchy, ruched knit that is meant to fit close, and its listed numbers are far smaller than any body it would fit. Böhme doesn't say exactly how stretchy pieces are measured, so treat those numbers as a way to compare with similar knits you own, not as body measurements. The Ellianna and Melody are non-stretch. With non-stretch fabric, the listed bust has to be at least your bust measurement plus a little ease, or the zipper won't close comfortably.

A practical rule:

• Non-stretch woven fabrics (satin, crepe, lined polyester, sequins on a woven base): pick the size whose bust and waist are at least 1–2 inches more than your body measurements.
• Stretchy knits (ribbed, ruched, jersey, sweater-knit): compare the table with a similar knit you own, measured flat and unstretched, rather than with your body.

Step 4: use the fit notes and model info

Some Böhme product pages include a fit note in the first line of the description. Read it before the table.

• Ellianna Floral Maxi Dress ($78.50): "Dress Runs Small, Recommendation is to Size Up." The model is 5'8" and wears X-Small. The dress is non-stretch, with an XS bust of 30", which explains the note.
• Marshall Straight Leg Jeans ($78.50): "These have a relaxed, slightly baggier fit—size down one size if you prefer a more form-fitting look." The model is 5'7" and wears a 24.

Model information also helps with length. A 5'8" model in a 53.5-inch maxi will show you roughly where the hem falls on someone that height. If you're shorter, expect it to pool at the floor or need flats. If you're taller, it may land above the ankle.

Step 5: jeans have their own tables too

Jeans show the same item-to-item variation. Size 24 across three current Böhme styles:

Three things stand out:

1. Waist varies by about an inch at the same size. The Marshall's relaxed cut is why Böhme suggests sizing down.
2. Inseam varies widely. The Colette is designed to be cropped at 26 inches, while the Marshall is full length at 31.5–33.5 inches depending on size. If you're tall and want a cropped look, the Colette works. If you're petite and want a full-length straight leg, compare the Marshall's inseam with your favorite pair first.
3. Rise increases with size. On the Arden, rise goes from 9.5 inches at size 24 to 11.5 inches at size 32. If you size up for the waist, the jeans also sit higher.

Stretch matters here too. The Marshall is 99% cotton with only slight stretch, so it will feel firm at first and soften with wear. The Colette and Arden contain 2% spandex and give a little more.

Step 6: decide what to do when you're between sizes

• Non-stretch dress, between sizes: go up and plan to tailor if needed. A zipper that won't close can't be fixed.
• Stretch knit dress, between sizes: usually go down, especially for ruched or bodycon styles meant to fit close.
• Rigid jeans, between sizes: go up if the waist table is tight against your measurement. Go down only if the listing says the fit is relaxed, as the Marshall's does.
• Still unsure: Böhme invites shoppers to email webteam@bohme.com for item-specific sizing details, and its stores can help you try things on.

Step 7: protect yourself on returns

Even with careful measuring, some pieces won't work. To keep returns simple:

• Try everything on as soon as it arrives. The 21-day window started when the order was fulfilled.
• Keep tags on and don't wear the item out of the house. Böhme refuses returns with makeup, perfume, deodorant or pet hair.
• Prefer an Instant Exchange for a different size. Böhme places a $1 hold and ships the new size right away. Just make sure the original reaches them within 14 days.
• If you won't need a cash refund, choose store credit. It avoids the $8.99 label fee, and Böhme sometimes adds bonus credit.
• Remember that bodysuits, intimates, jewelry, accessories and anything marked final sale can't be returned. Size those extra carefully.

All the return rules are in our Böhme shopping guide.

Putting it together: two examples

A non-stretch party dress. You measure 34" bust and 28" waist and like the Melody Sequin Ultra Maxi. Its X-Small is 32" bust and Small is 34". On a non-stretch sequin bodice, Small would have no ease at all, so Medium (36" bust, 32" waist) is the safer choice. Then check the length. Medium is 57", which on most people will reach the floor.

Jeans for a 29" waist. In the Marshall, size 25 lists a 29" waist and the brand says the fit is relaxed. Size 25 is a reasonable first pick, or 24 if you want it closer. In the Colette, size 26 lists a 29" waist with stretch and a cropped 26" inseam.

For outfit ideas once you know your size, see our best Böhme holiday party dresses for 2026. If you're comparing return policies, see Böhme vs Red Dress. If tennis skirts are next on your list, our guide to choosing a tennis skort walks through fit the same way.

References

1. Sizing Chart. Böhme. https://bohme.com/pages/sizing-chart
2. Ellianna Floral Maxi Dress. Böhme. https://bohme.com/products/ellianna-floral-maxi-dress
3. Melody Sequin Ultra Maxi Dress. Böhme. https://bohme.com/products/melody-sequin-ultra-maxi-dress
4. Danna Ruched Maxi Dress in Red-Brown. Böhme. https://bohme.com/products/danna-ruched-maxi-dress-in-red-brown
5. Marshall Straight Leg Jeans in Medium Wash. Böhme. https://bohme.com/products/marshall-straight-leg-jeans-in-medium-wash
6. Colette Wide Leg Jeans in Light Wash. Böhme. https://bohme.com/products/colette-wide-leg-jeans
7. Arden Mid Rise Barrel Jeans. Böhme. https://bohme.com/products/arden-barrel-jeans
8. Returns & Exchanges. Böhme. https://bohme.com/pages/return-policy