In Between Sizes: Let Out or Take In?

[undarted]

I find size 31 pants fits me best, for the past 10 years or so.

30 too tight, 32 too big, by roughly equal measures. One would think I could just get away with the 32, but it actually creates an unsightly fold somewhere due to the extra fabric. I also feel that subjectively, maybe the rise, thighs are also too big.

Size 30, I have to inhale to button up.

So.

What do you guys normally do, size one up to take the waist in, or size one down to let it out?

I guess the main concern is pocket placement: closer together or farther apart?

 

[chorse123]

The difference between 30 and 32 is small enough that wearing a different maker or model should solve the problem. Some 32 have a waist of 33 (or even a little bigger) and legs for zaftig businessmen. Some have a waist of 32 and legs for pre-teen girls.

 

[Ringo]

I'm in the same boat as you. Like chorse said, it's all about the brand. I have some pants in 30 that on certain days are a wee bit on the loose side, while I have other pants in 32 that fit exactly the same, if not a bit tighter. As far as unslightly folds, it's all about how each pair is cut, regardless of size.

In my experience and opinion, it's better to go with 32 and get the waist taken in rather than the reverse. For one, most pants have enough room to be taken in at least an inch and still look normal. Secondly, by letting it out, you risk showing some of the lines left by the old stitching (this is not always an issue, though). Third, by sizing up, you will have room for when you inevitably get a bit fatter and up to a true 32.

 

[lee_44106]

It's better to take in than let out. I'm a 33 but take 34.