You wear size 38 in most of your shoes, but your latest pair of Michael Kors sneakers feels tight or loose. This discrepancy is not unusual. The American brand uses the US sizing system as its manufacturing reference, and the conversion to European sizes varies depending on the type of model. Understanding this logic helps avoid returns and unpleasant surprises, especially when shopping online.
Why Michael Kors sizing changes by model
Michael Kors designs its shoes on lasts that differ from one category to another. A sneaker, a sandal, and an ankle boot in the same size do not provide the same feel on the foot.
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Several multi-brand retailers, including Tower London, report that Michael Kors sneakers run larger than heels or sandals in the same size. For sneakers, a half size down from your usual size is often recommended. For ankle boots, the standard size usually fits better.
This phenomenon can be explained by the construction of the sole and the internal volume of the shoe. A sneaker incorporates more cushioning around the foot, which widens the fit. A heel, cut closer to the foot, leaves less room. Before questioning whether Michael Kors shoes run large or small, first identify the category of the model in question.
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Michael Kors size chart: read the EU, US, UK table
The official Michael Kors France website publishes a size guide covering women’s sizes from 35 to 43.5 in European sizing. The chart has been standardized in recent years with the addition of more systematic half sizes between 35 and 41.5.
| EU | US | UK |
|---|---|---|
| 36 | 6 | 3 |
| 37 | 7 | 4 |
| 38 | 7.5 | 5 |
| 38.5 | 8 | 5.5 |
| 39 | 8.5 | 6 |
| 40 | 9 | 7 |
| 41 | 10 | 8 |
A detail to remember: the US size displayed on the box is the manufacturing reference. The European conversion is indicative and may vary from one retailer to another. If you order from an American or British site, rely on the US column of the official guide rather than your usual EU size.
When conversions differ between retailers
The official Michael Kors site and some third-party retailers do not always display the same equivalences. A 38 EU may correspond to a US 7.5 on the brand’s site and a US 8 at a retailer. The note “size conversions are approximate” is also mentioned in the official guide.
Always compare foot length in centimeters rather than relying solely on the size number. Most reputable guides indicate the length of the insole associated with each size, which eliminates ambiguity.
Measuring your foot correctly before online purchase
Have you ever noticed that your feet seem larger at the end of the day? The foot naturally swells with heat and activity. Measure your feet in the evening for the most reliable size.
Here’s the simplest method:
- Place a sheet of paper on the floor against a wall, with your heel pressed against the wall, and mark a line at the level of your longest toe.
- Measure the distance between the wall and the line in centimeters, then repeat with the other foot. Keep the larger measurement of the two.
- Wear the socks you will use with the model in question: a thick sock for a winter sneaker easily adds a few millimeters.
- Compare your measurement in centimeters with the official Michael Kors size chart rather than with your usual size in other brands.
The difference between your two feet can be up to half a size. If this is the case, always choose the size of the larger foot.
Adjusting your choice according to material: leather, canvas, synthetic
The material of the shoe directly influences the fit in the weeks following the purchase. Leather stretches over time, while synthetic canvas retains its original shape.
For a leather model that feels slightly tight when trying on, sticking with your usual size is still a good bet: the leather will conform to your foot after a few days of wear. Taking a half size up may risk giving you a shoe that is too loose after two weeks.
Sneakers and textile models
Michael Kors sneakers made of canvas or synthetic material hardly stretch at all. If the shoe is a bit snug from the start, it will remain so. It’s better to opt for the half size up in this specific case.
The comfort of the insole also plays a role. Some Michael Kors models come with a removable insole. Removing this insole frees up a bit of volume if you are between two sizes, without changing the size.
Common pitfalls when shopping online
The most common pitfall is directly transposing your size from Zara, Nike, or Adidas to Michael Kors. Each brand uses its own lasts and size charts. A size is not universal from one brand to another.
Another mistake: relying on customer reviews without checking the model category. A comment saying “runs small, take a size up” may refer to a pointed toe heel, while you are looking for a flat sneaker. The advice does not apply the same way.
Also check the return policy before ordering. Being able to exchange a pair that is too small or too large for free reduces the risk, especially when trying a new brand or a new type of model.
The official size guide, the measurement of your foot in centimeters, and the model category form the three reliable references for ordering the correct Michael Kors size. Start from these three data points rather than your habits in other brands, and the return rate will significantly decrease.