LiveLifeBig.net may earn a small commission when you use one of the links on this page to purchase.
One of the biggest hurdles you have to overcome when shopping online (or even in-store) is determining how a garment is supposed to fit. While manufacturers follow general guidelines, there can be size discrepancies between brands.
Plus, even when the brand is the same, some garments are just made to fit differently. One of the terms you might see manufacturers use to describe a garment is generous fit. You also might see this term in reviews if you’re shopping for clothes online.
But what does generous fit mean in clothing?
Generous fit clothing is designed roomier, particularly in the belly and chest. You’re most likely to find generous fit in something like a jacket or a similar item that’s been designed for layering. The extra room is for accommodating layers underneath. However, you can also find generous fit pants and shirts in some clothing brands.
Below, we’ll take a closer look at what generous fit means in clothing, how it will fit your body, and when generous fit clothing is a good choice.
What Does Generous Fit Mean in Clothing?
While generous fit isn’t an official sizing term, it is something that I’ve seen on certain clothing labels. Basically, it means that the clothes are a little bit roomier. Things like hoodies and jackets are often made with a generous fit because they’re meant to be layered over other clothing.
Generous fit clothes are great for people who don’t want fabric clinging to their body. It’s also a good choice for people who are plus-size, big and tall, or even for people who just want a little extra room. Some kids clothing also comes in “generous fit” sizing.
While there are a few clothing manufacturers that describe their clothing as having generous or relaxed fit, it also may not be used as an official term. You’re likely to see generous fit as an adjective to describe clothes in the reviews section part of some websites when clothes have a roomier, looser fit.
Generous Fit vs. Classic/Regular Fit
Generous fit is going to be a little looser than classic or regular fit clothing. It won’t be as great as the difference between generous and slim fit, but you should expect a few extra inches of fabric around the chest/waist in these types of garments.
Generous Fit vs. Slim Fit
You’ll notice a distinct difference between slim-fit clothes and generous-fit clothes. Clothing with a slim fit is meant to hug the body and be more form-fitting, so it isn’t good for layering like generous fit clothes.
Are Generous Fit and Relaxed Fit the Same?
Relaxed fit and generous fit are similar in the sense that they both offer a slightly bigger fit than the classic/regular clothing in a brand. However, generous fit is usually a little roomier than relaxed fit clothing.
What Types of Clothing Have a Generous Fit?
You’re most likely to find clothing described as generous fit when they are hoodies, jackets, or sweaters designed fo layering. There’s also a brand that makes generous fit clothing for children, which includes jeans, t-shirts, and other clothing.
That being said, with the discrepancies in sizing between different clothing manufacturers, generous fit also could just be a way that somebody describes a piece of clothing, especially when leaving a review.
How Do I Know if I Need Generous Fit Clothing?
In some cases, people use generous fit clothes to layer them over other clothing. This is generally the case with sweaters, jackets, hoodies, and any other type of clothing you might use as an overshirt.
In other cases, people might look for generous fit clothing because they need a little extra room in the waist or thighs of their pants, or in the chest/belly area of their shirt. You’ll know if it’s a good option based on how the clothing fits you and how confident you feel while wearing it.
How Do I Know if My Child Needs Generous Fit Clothing?
Like adults, kids come in all shapes and sizes but their clothing options don’t always reflect that. Your child might need generous fit clothing if they are big boned or carrying around a little extra weight.
The best indicator is how standard-size clothing fits. Opting for generous fit, plus-size for girls, or husky sizes for boys over standard fit will give your child more room and help them feel more comfortable when they’re moving around. This is especially important for active kids.
Final Word
So, what does generous fit mean in clothing? Generous fit means that there’s a little extra room in the garment.
While there are a few clothing manufacturers that might use “generous fit” as a way to describe clothes from their line, it’s most commonly used as an adjective to describe clothing. People who leave reviews for clothing online might describe the fit this way.
Hopefully, this article has cleared up any questions you might have about generous fit clothing and when it might be a good option for you.