Pants ordered in size 40 that are tight at the hips, a blouse in size 42 that is too loose at the shoulders: at Grain de Malice, sizes follow a logic unique to the brand. Understanding this logic before placing an order avoids back-and-forth with customer service and disappointments upon receiving the package.
Grain de Malice and the Fringuant tool: a recommendation based on morphological scoring
Most brands offer a static size chart. Grain de Malice goes further with the Fringuant tool, based on real morphological data. The customer inputs her size, weight, and can add a selfie. The algorithm cross-references this information with the exact measurements of each garment.
The result is not limited to “take a 40”. Fringuant displays a percentage of fit between your measurements and the product’s cut. A high score means that the garment will fit your silhouette according to the designer’s intended cut. A lower score indicates a discrepancy, whether in hip width, bust length, or chest circumference.
This scoring system changes the way of choosing. Two size 42 pants can yield very different scores if one is a straight cut and the other is a slim cut. Consulting the Grain de Malice size guide on Glamiz complements this approach by cross-referencing the experiences of other buyers with the data from the official chart.
Measuring yourself: the three mistakes that skew everything
Have you ever noticed that a measuring tape gives different results depending on the time of day? It’s not just an impression. Three mistakes constantly recur and explain the majority of poor size choices.
Measuring over a thick garment
Measuring your bust or hip circumference over a sweater can easily add a whole size. Always measure on bare skin or in thin underwear. This is the only way to obtain a reliable number.
Pulling the tape too tight or too loose
The measuring tape should fit the body without compressing the skin. A simple tip: slide a flat finger between the tape and your body. If it passes without forcing, the tension is correct.
Forgetting the hip measurement
Many women know their bust and waist measurements but neglect their hip measurement. At Grain de Malice, pants, skirts, and fitted dresses heavily depend on this measurement. The hips are measured at the widest part of the hips, not at the level of the iliac bones.
- Bust measurement: horizontal measuring tape, at the fullest point, without flattening the bust.
- Waist measurement: at the natural dip, halfway between the lower ribs and the navel, while breathing normally.
- Hip measurement: at the widest point, thighs together, keeping the tape perfectly horizontal.
Grain de Malice cuts: why the same size doesn’t fit the same across models
Grain de Malice designs its collections for active women seeking a balance between comfort and style. The brand offers various cuts, and this is where the size displayed on the label can be misleading if only the number is considered.
A straight cut capri pant in size 42 does not have the same dimensions as a slim pant in size 42. The capri allows more room for the thighs and calves. The slim, on the other hand, hugs the leg. The cut alters the actual size of the garment as much as the number on the label.
The same logic applies to tops. A flowy blouse will fit larger than a fitted top of the same size. Grain de Malice uses fabrics with varying elasticity rates. A stretch jersey allows for a small measurement error. A rigid woven cotton does not.
Before finalizing your cart, check the fabric composition on the product page. A garment containing elastane offers more flexibility in size. A garment made of 100% viscose or linen is likely to fit more snugly.
Returns and exchanges: anticipate rather than endure
Several customer reviews mention difficulties with online returns, particularly regarding tracking packages and refund delays. A few precautions significantly reduce the risk of disputes.
- Always keep the receipt or proof of deposit for the return package, regardless of the drop-off point used.
- Photograph the return label and the slip before dropping off the package.
- Prefer trying on in-store when possible: Grain de Malice sales associates know the specific cut characteristics of each collection.
- In case of doubt between two sizes on the site, order the larger size if the fabric is rigid, the usual size if the fabric is stretch.
Trying on in-store remains the most reliable way to avoid mistakes, especially for structured pieces like jackets or dress pants. For online orders, combining the size chart, the Fringuant tool, and the fabric composition provides a significantly more accurate result than relying solely on your usual size from other retailers.
A size at Grain de Malice is not a universal size. Each garment has its own geometry, and taking this into account before purchase transforms a risky order into a controlled choice.