There are some other points to consider too. First, the different size ranges are related to variations in age and body structure of GG's. To quote one manufacturer, junior sizes are "for figures with smaller, more defined waist, higher bustline, slightly shorter from shoulder to waist than Misses sizes." In other words, gals, these are the teenagers and the young swingers! Petite junior sizes are shorter by about 3/4" from waist to shoulders and about $1⁄2" shorter overall than junior sizes. Half sizes are described as "for the shorter-waisted (shorter from waist to shoulders), mature figure with medium to heavy frame. Garments are fuller in bust, waist and hips than Misses sizes with narrower shoulders." And wo- men's sizes are "for the fuller, mature figure, longer from waist to shoulder and waist to hem than half sizes." Tall sizes are about “one inch longer from shoulder to waist and 21⁄2" longer in total length, with slightly broader shoulders than Misses sizes." Tall-be-tween, apparently an exclusive with Lane Bryant, is described as "the size range for the medium-tall girl under 5'10", with slightly longer sleeve, a hem that doesn't require letting-down, and a waist that doesn't hike up. Two inches short in total length than tall sizes." You figure this one out! It is sort of betwixt-and-between with some features of tall sizes and others of regular misses sizes.

Sizes for blouses generally follow dress sizes in misses range, but most stores don't carry a size larger than 18. What does a girl do who wears a size 20 dress when she is looking for a blouse? She looks for women's sizes and selects a 38, for in blouses the women's sizes begin where misses sizes stop. Girls shirts and other casual tops usually follow misses or junior dress sizes.

Sweaters, though, are a different animal! It seems that the sweater should fit slightly looser than a blouse, so sweaters are usually sold by bustline measure (E) plus two inches. Thus, if the bustline (E) of our hypothetical sister above who wears a 38 B bra is 40 inches, then she would wear a size 42 sweater. Bear in mind, too, that most sweaters only go as large as size 40 and you usually have to hunt in women's sizes to find 42 and above, and they are usually in the dreary button-up-the- front cardigan styles instead of the cuter styles available in the smaller sizes!

Slips, camisole tops, pajamas and night gowns are sold by bustline measurement(E). Our friend would wear size 40. Panties are sold by hip size (D), while girdles and panty girdles are sold by waist size (C).

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