H&M Loose Fit vs. Relaxed Fit: Sizing comparison [2026]
The H&M Loose Fit and Relaxed Fit are both designed for comfort, but they create entirely different silhouettes. The Loose Fit offers a distinctly oversized, baggy feel characteristic of modern streetwear, while the Relaxed Fit provides a more subtle, easygoing drape that's roomy without being voluminous, balancing comfort with a slightly more classic shape.
Here's everything you need to know to choose the right H&M fit for your style and comfort.
H&M Loose Fit
The H&M Loose Fit is all about embracing an intentionally oversized and roomy silhouette. Designed for a modern, streetwear-inspired look, these pieces prioritize maximum comfort and a laid-back aesthetic with wider cuts in the shoulders, sleeves, and body.
- What it is: A clothing fit style with a very roomy, oversized cut intended to look and feel baggy.
- Key features: Exaggerated proportions, including broad shoulders, wider sleeves, and a generous waistline. The overall look is modern, casual, and unstructured.
- Price: ~$15 - $50, depending on the item.
- Materials/Construction: Typically made from soft, breathable fabrics that drape well, such as cotton jersey, linen, and comfortable synthetic blends.
- Sizing/Fit: Designed to be oversized. Ordering your standard size will give you the intended baggy look, size down only if you want a slightly less voluminous but still roomy fit.
- Pros: Extremely comfortable and provides unrestricted movement. Aligns with current oversized fashion trends. Great for creating layered, casual looks.
- Cons: The exaggerated volume can be overwhelming on some body frames. Its heavily casual nature makes it less versatile for smart-casual or professional settings.
This fit is for the fashion-forward shopper who loves the oversized trend and wants to build a comfortable, streetwear-inspired wardrobe.
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H&M Relaxed Fit
H&M's Relaxed Fit strikes a balance between comfort and structure. It's looser than a "Regular Fit" but more tailored and less voluminous than the "Loose Fit," making it an incredibly versatile option for polished yet comfortable everyday outfits.
- What it is: A comfortable fit that is cut slightly wider than standard sizing but without exaggerated volume, offering a refined, easy-to-wear silhouette.
- Key features: Provides extra room through the body and sleeves for comfort and movement, while retaining a sense of shape. Not clingy, but not baggy.
- Price: ~$20 - $60, in a similar range to the Loose Fit options.
- Materials/Construction: Uses classic materials like cotton, linen, and blends, sometimes with more structured tailoring to maintain its shape.
- Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size for its intended purpose. Order your usual size for a comfortable, slightly roomy silhouette that isn't tight or oversized.
- Pros: Highly versatile, easily dressed up or down. Offers great comfort without sacrificing polish. A timeless fit that works for many body types and occasions.
- Cons: May not feel trendy enough for those who prefer an edgier, oversized style. Might be considered plain by shoppers looking for a statement silhouette.
This fit is a closet staple for anyone who values comfortable, versatile pieces perfect for everything from errands to casual work-from-home days.
Shop this product: www.hm.com
H&M Loose Fit vs. Relaxed Fit Comparison
Fit & Sizing
The most important difference between the H&M Loose Fit and Relaxed Fit is the silhouette. Loose Fit is intentionally billowy and oversized, giving you a lot of extra fabric for a baggy, street-style look. When you buy your normal size in a Loose Fit, expect it to be very generous. Some people even size down for a less dramatic effect.
On the other hand, the Relaxed Fit is much more subtle. It's gently eased away from the body - think a little more room in the chest and waist than a "Regular Fit," but it still follows your natural shape. It's designed for comfort and ease of movement without adding significant volume. For a Relaxed Fit item, your standard size should work perfectly for the intended comfortable-yet-tidy look.
Style & Aesthetic
These two fits cater to different aesthetics. The Loose Fit champions a trendy, laid-back, and often urban or streetwear vibe. It's perfect for creating a statement with its shape and is favored by those who follow current oversized trends.
The Relaxed Fit leans more timeless and classic. It's the go-to for someone who wants to look put-together yet feel completely comfortable. Its effortless and understated look makes it suitable for a broader range of styles and occasions, from minimalist basics to preppy casualwear.
Versatility
Because of its more structured shape, the Relaxed Fit is the clear winner in versatility. A relaxed-fit shirt, sweater, or pair of trousers can easily be styled for a casual office, a weekend brunch, or running errands. The fit is polished enough to seem intentional and looks great with jeans, chinos, or skirts.
The Loose Fit is inherently more casual. Its bold, oversized aesthetic is best suited for off-duty looks, creative settings, or any situation where comfort is the top priority and a formal dress code isn't a concern. While stylish, it's harder to dress up and may not be appropriate for more traditional environments.
Price & Quality
There is no meaningful price or quality difference between H&M's Loose Fit and Relaxed Fit lines. Both are priced accessibly, consistent with the rest of H&M's offerings, typically ranging from $15 for basic tees to $60 for outerwear. They are also made from similar materials, usually cotton, linen, or polyester blends, and constructed to typical fast-fashion standards. The decision between the two should be based purely on your preference for fit and style, not on cost or durability concerns.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both styles excel in comfort, but your choice will depend on the final look you're trying to achieve.
Choose Loose Fit if:
- You love a bold, oversized, and trendy streetwear aesthetic.
- You prioritize maximum roominess and a billowy, unrestricted feeling in your clothes.
- Your personal style is casual, modern, and fashion-forward.
- You want dramatic, comfortable pieces that make a statement.
Choose Relaxed Fit if:
- You want comfort without appearing baggy or sacrificing shape.
- You need versatile basics that work for errands, lounging, and casual work attire.
- Your style is more classic, minimalist, or you simply prefer an understated silhouette.
- You find that oversized styles often overwhelm your frame.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between H&M Loose and Relaxed Fit?
The primary difference is the amount of volume. Loose Fit is intentionally oversized and baggy for a streetwear look. Relaxed Fit is slightly roomier than standard sizing for comfort but maintains a more classic, less voluminous appearance.
Should I size down for H&M Loose Fit?
If you want the intended oversized look, order your usual size. If you prefer a silhouette that's still roomy but less dramatic, you can try sizing down one size.
Is H&M Relaxed Fit true to size?
Yes, H&M's Relaxed Fit items typically fit true to size. Ordering your standard size should give you the intended comfortable, slightly loose shape without being baggy.
Which fit is more comfortable?
Both are designed for comfort. Loose Fit offers the most room and an unrestricted feel, while Relaxed Fit provides comfortable ease of movement without excess fabric. Your preference will depend on whether you find more comfort in a baggy or slightly tailored shape.
How do H&M Loose and Relaxed fits compare to a Regular Fit?
Regular fit is a standard cut that follows the body more closely. Relaxed Fit is one step looser than Regular, offering more room. Loose Fit is another, more significant step beyond Relaxed, creating a distinctly oversized silhouette.
Which fit is better for a professional or work setting?
The Relaxed Fit is much more suitable for a casual office or professional environment. Its polish and balanced silhouette make it look intentional and put-together, whereas the Loose Fit is almost always too casual for work.
Do these fits shrink in the wash?
Like most H&M garments, an item's potential for shrinkage depends on its material composition. Cotton and linen pieces may experience minor shrinkage. Always follow the care instructions on the garment tag to minimize this.
Which style is more trendy?
The Loose Fit directly aligns with the current oversized and streetwear fashion trends, making it the more "trendy" option. The Relaxed Fit is a more timeless, classic silhouette that never really goes out of style.
