Daily English Day 9: Buying Clothes – Size and Color

Shopping for clothes is one of the most practical and fun ways to practice English. When you visit a store, you need to describe what you want, ask about the size, and choose your favorite color. These situations often come up during travel, study abroad, or daily life in an English-speaking country.

This lesson will guide you step by step through the most common expressions, dialogues, and vocabulary related to buying clothes, especially focusing on size and color.

Why This Lesson Matters

Imagine you are in a clothing shop. You see a shirt you like, but you don’t know how to ask for a bigger size or how to check if it comes in another color. These moments can be stressful if you don’t know the right words. By learning today’s phrases, you will:

• Ask for clothing in your size.

• Request a different color or style.

• Understand the shop assistant’s questions.

• Express your preferences politely.

Key Vocabulary

Clothing Items

• Shirt / T-shirt

• Pants / Trousers

• Skirt

• Dress

• Jacket / Coat

• Shoes / Sneakers

Size Words

• Small (S)

• Medium (M)

• Large (L)

• Extra Large (XL)

• Fitting room (where you try on clothes)

Colors

• Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Black, White, Pink, Gray, Brown, Orange, Purple

• Light (light blue, light green)

• Dark (dark red, dark gray)

Useful Phrases for Size

1. “Do you have this in small/medium/large?”
   → Asking for another size.

2. “This is too big/small for me.”
   → Explaining the fit.

3. “Can I try this on?”
   → Asking to use the fitting room.

4. “It doesn’t fit.”
   → Saying the size is not right.

5. “Do you have a bigger/smaller size?”
   → Requesting adjustment.

Useful Phrases for Color

1. “Do you have this in blue?”
   → Asking if another color is available.

2. “I like this color.” / “I don’t like this color.”
   → Expressing preference.

3. “Do you have a darker/lighter shade?”
   → Asking for variation.

4. “I prefer black.”
   → Sharing what you want.

Example Dialogue 1 – Asking for Size

Customer: Excuse me, do you have this T-shirt in medium?
Shop Assistant: Let me check… Yes, here it is.
Customer: Great! Can I try it on?
Shop Assistant: Sure, the fitting rooms are over there.
Customer: Thank you.

Practice Tip: Repeat this dialogue with different clothing items and sizes.

Example Dialogue 2 – Asking for Color

Customer: Hi, I like this dress. Do you have it in red?
Shop Assistant: Sorry, we only have it in blue and black.
Customer: Okay, I’ll take the black one.
Shop Assistant: Good choice!

Practice Tip: Try this with your favorite colors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Mixing up size words.

   • Don’t say “big size” only. Use “larger size” or “extra large.”

2. Forgetting plural forms.

   • Correct: “Do you have these shoes in size 9?”

   • Incorrect: “Do you have this shoe in size 9?”

3. Using “color” incorrectly.

   • Correct: “I like this color.”

   • Incorrect: “I like this paint.”

Practice Exercise 1 – Fill in the Blank

1. Excuse me, do you have this jacket in _______? (small, medium, large)

2. I like this shirt, but it’s too _______. (big, small)

3. Can I _______ this on? (try, fit)

4. Do you have this in _______? (blue, green, red)

Practice Exercise 2 – Role Play

• Student A: You are the customer. You want a T-shirt in a larger size and a different color.

• Student B: You are the shop assistant. Respond politely.

Example:

• A: “Excuse me, do you have this in a larger size?”

• B: “Yes, here is a large.”

• A: “Thank you. Do you have it in white?”

• B: “Sorry, only in black.”

Cultural Tips

• In many Western countries, people usually try on clothes before buying. Always ask: “Can I try this on?”

• Sizes differ between countries. For example, shoe sizes in the US and UK are not the same.

• It’s polite to say “Excuse me” before asking a shop assistant.

Practice Sentences

1. Excuse me, can I try on this dress?

2. Do you have these pants in medium?

3. I like this color, but do you have a darker one?

4. This shirt is too small. Do you have a larger size?

5. I’ll take the blue one, please.

Repeat these five sentences aloud three times each to build confidence.

Extended Dialogue – Real Shopping Experience

Customer: Hello, I’m looking for a jacket.
Shop Assistant: Sure! What size are you?
Customer: Medium, please.
Shop Assistant: We have this one in medium. Would you like to try it on?
Customer: Yes, please. Where is the fitting room?
Shop Assistant: Over there.
Customer: (After trying) It’s a bit tight. Do you have a larger size?
Shop Assistant: Yes, here is a large.
Customer: Perfect! Do you have it in black?
Shop Assistant: Sorry, only in blue and gray.
Customer: Okay, I’ll take the gray one. How much is it?
Shop Assistant: It’s $40.
Customer: Great, I’ll buy it.

Review

Today you learned how to:

• Ask for a different size (small, medium, large).

• Request another color (red, black, blue, etc.).

• Use polite questions when shopping.

• Practice dialogues with shop assistants.

With these skills, you can shop for clothes with confidence anywhere in the world.

Homework

1. Write 5 sentences using clothing vocabulary + color. Example: “I want a red dress.”

2. Practice a role play with a friend: One is the customer, the other is the shop assistant.

3. Next time you go shopping, try using one English phrase in a real store.

What are the most useful phrases to ask for a different size?

Use clear, polite questions. Try these flexible patterns:

• “Do you have this in small/medium/large?”
• “Do you have a bigger/smaller size?”
• “Could I see this in size __?” (for numbered sizes)
• “What sizes do you carry for this item?”
• “Is the fit true to size?” (to check if it runs big or small)

Start with “Excuse me” and add “please” to keep the tone friendly: “Excuse me, do you have this in a larger size, please?”

How can I politely say something doesn’t fit?

Describe the issue using body parts or general fit words:

• “It’s too tight/loose around the shoulders/chest/waist/hips.”
• “The sleeves are a bit long/short.”
• “The waist is too high/low for me.”
• “This cut doesn’t suit me; do you have a different fit?”

Add a request: “Do you have the next size up/down?” or “Could I try a different style?”

What should I say to use the fitting room?

Ask permission and confirm the item limit:

• “May I try this on?”
• “Where are the fitting rooms?”
• “Is there a limit on items?”

If you need help: “Could I get another size while I’m in the fitting room?” or “This zipper is stuck; could you assist me?”

How do I ask about other colors and shades?

Use simple questions and color modifiers:

• “Do you have this in black/blue/red?”
• “Do you carry lighter or darker shades?”
• “Is there a pastel/bright/neon option?”
• “Do you have other finishes, like matte or glossy?”

If you like the style but not the color: “I like the design, but I’d prefer it in navy. Is that available?”

How can I describe patterns and color combinations clearly?

Combine pattern + color + intensity:

• “A light-blue, striped shirt.”
• “A dark-green, plaid jacket.”
• “A black dress with small white polka dots.”
• “Color-blocked sneakers in gray and white.”

If you’re unsure of the word, point and ask: “What do you call this pattern?”

What measurements are most important when choosing size?

Key measurements for tops: chest/bust, shoulder width, sleeve length. For bottoms: waist, hip, inseam (inside leg). For dresses: bust, waist, hip, and overall length. Ask the associate:

• “Do you have a size chart for this brand?”
• “What’s the waist measurement of the medium?”

How do I talk about different cuts and fits?

Common fit words you can mix with items:

• “slim fit / regular fit / relaxed fit / oversized”
• “high-rise / mid-rise / low-rise (for pants and skirts)”
• “tapered / straight / wide-leg”
• “stretch / non-stretch / structured / flowy”

Example: “Do these jeans come in a high-rise, straight-leg fit?”

How can I convert sizes between regions (US, UK, EU)?

Sizes vary by brand and region. Always check the brand’s chart, but here’s a simplified example for tops:

For shoes, ask: “What’s the US/UK/EU equivalent of size __?” Conversions differ by brand and gender.

What if I’m between sizes?

Explain the issue and ask for advice:

• “I’m between medium and large. Which would you recommend?”
• “Does this fabric stretch after washing?”
• “Is the cut roomy or slim?”

General tip: choose the larger size for non-stretch, structured fabrics; consider the smaller size for stretch fabrics. If possible, try both.

How do I ask about fabric and care (important for color and size)?

Fabric affects color appearance and fit. Ask:

• “What fabric is this—cotton, linen, wool, polyester, or a blend?”
• “Will this color fade or bleed when washed?”
• “How should I care for this—machine wash, hand wash, dry clean?”

For shrinkage: “Does this cotton shrink? Should I size up?”

How can I check stock quickly and clearly?

Use direct, efficient questions:

• “Could you check if you have a medium in the back?”
• “Is the black color available online or at another branch?”
• “Can you place an order for the size and color I want?”

How do I ask for alterations or adjustments?

Some stores offer hemming or minor tailoring:

• “Do you offer alterations? Can you shorten the sleeves/hem?”
• “How much does it cost and how long will it take?”
• “Is alteration included with purchase?”

What should I ask about returns and exchanges (size/color issues)?

Confirm the policy before buying, especially for sale items:

• “What is your return/exchange policy?”
• “Can I exchange if the size or color isn’t right?”
• “How many days do I have, and do I need the receipt and tags?”

If unsure: “If the color looks different at home, may I return it?”

How do I ask about price, sales, and discounts without sounding rude?

Use neutral, polite language:

• “Is this item on sale?”
• “Do you have any promotions or coupons today?”
• “Do you offer student/teacher/senior discounts?”

If you have a budget: “I’m looking for something similar under $__. What do you recommend?”

Is bargaining acceptable when buying clothes?

In chain stores and malls, prices are usually fixed. In markets or independent boutiques, bargaining may be acceptable. Be respectful and smile:

• “Could you do a better price if I buy two?”
• “Is there a discount for paying cash?”
• “What’s your best price on this jacket?”

If they refuse, you can still thank them and decide later.

How do I handle color accuracy and lighting differences?

Colors can look different under store lighting or on phone screens. Ask to check near a window: “May I see this in natural light?” For online orders, confirm: “Is this shade closer to navy or royal blue?” You can also compare two sizes or colors side by side and ask the associate’s opinion.

What language can I use when shopping online for the right size and color?

Look for size guides, customer reviews, and photos. Useful phrases for live chat or email:

• “Could you share the exact chest and length measurements for size M?”
• “Is the ‘wine’ color closer to burgundy or brown?”
• “If the fit is too small, can I exchange it easily?”

When in doubt, measure a similar item you own and compare with the site’s chart.

How can I describe what I want if I don’t know the right fashion word?

Use everyday descriptors and examples:

• “I’m looking for a simple black dress for work—knee length, not too tight.”
• “I need lightweight, breathable shirts for hot weather.”
• “I want relaxed-fit jeans with a straight leg.”

Point to similar items in the store and say, “Something like this, but in navy and a size larger.”

Can you give sample mini-dialogues for size and color?

Size:
Customer: “Excuse me, do you have this T-shirt in large?”
Associate: “Yes, I’ll grab it for you. Would you like to try it on?”
Customer: “Yes, please. The medium felt a bit tight in the shoulders.”

Color:
Customer: “I like this cardigan. Do you have it in dark gray?”
Associate: “We have charcoal and light gray.”
Customer: “Charcoal works. Could I compare medium and large?”

What set phrases help me decide quickly at the counter?

• “I’ll take the blue one in medium.”
• “I’ll go with the larger size; it’s more comfortable.”
• “I’ll pass on this color, thanks.”
• “Could you put this on hold for 24 hours?”

Any final tips to avoid common mistakes?

• Use “larger/smaller” rather than only “bigger/smaller” for clothes.
• Say “pair of pants/jeans/shorts” or just “pants,” not “a pant.”
• Check fabric care to prevent shrinkage or color fading.
• Keep tags and receipts until you are sure the size and color work.

With these phrases and strategies, you can confidently handle size and color questions, compare options, and make the right choice—whether you’re shopping in-store or online.

Daily English Guide for Beginners: Speak with Confidence Every Day