to be highly sceptical of the sizing charts at the back of catalogues?

[Desperatelyseekinginspiration]

I am a size 12-14 in most clothes shops. That is, when I buy off the peg, a 12 is too snug and a 14 gapes in certain bits (Bust area normally but occassionally in the waist as well).

So why is it that if I fit my current B-W-H measurements into the table at the back of my catalogue, I am apparently a size 20.

Even accounting for "my wishful thinking" and "slight sucking in of tummy", I don't get it.

Is it just me? I would have thought many women my age have a bit of a tummy. And if I really am a size 20 waist, how come the size 14 dress I'm wearing now is loose?

I apologise for this obviously pointless rant, just annoyed cause I want to buy something but will no doubt end up ordering the wrong size, cause it doesn't blooming fit .

I have been going through EXACTLY the same thing today and nearly posted the same thing!

So, no, YANBU. I don't get it either.

YANBU. If I go by the Next catalogue measurements, I would need to go up 4 sizes from my usual to fit my waist into their trousers apparently! Goodness know how you;re supposed to buy anything that fits!