The Canadian Buy Guide: Size Curves & Pack Ratios That Actually Sell

Why size curves matter in Canada

Canadian doors skew differently by province and climate. L/XL sell-through often outpaces XS in most categories, while outerwear and denim trend a size up. Your default curves (use these unless historical data says otherwise)

Tops/Knits (8 units): XS(0) S(1) M(3) L(3) XL(1)

Fashion Blouses (10 units): XS(1) S(2) M(3) L(3) XL(1)

Dresses (8 units): XS(0) S(2) M(3) L(2) XL(1)

Denim (12 units): 25(0) 26(1) 27(2) 28(3) 29(3) 30(2) 31(1)

Outerwear (6 units): XS(0) S(1) M(2) L(2) XL(1)

Pack ratio math (keep it simple)

If minimum is a 6-pack and you want more M/L:
Pack: 0-1-2-2-1 (XS-S-M-L-XL). For a 12-pack, double the ratio.

When to go even: Basics/never-out styles, replen programs, or when size history is unknown.

Regional nuance (quick)

Prairies & Atlantic: stronger M/L/XL.

Urban cores: broader size spread, keep a token xs run for trend

Resorts Towns: use smaller sizes for ocassional wear and larger sizes for relaxed knits

Reorders & risk control

Launch with a test pack on fashion styles (40–60% of open-to-buy).

Reorder winners within 10–14 days to catch the demand curve.

Use size swap on replenishment if vendor allows (M↑, XS↓).

Store-level checklist

Count size holes every Saturday.

Reface best-selling size with dupes if you’re short (keeps velocity).

Tag “size-held” units in the backroom so staff can find them fast.

Q&A

What’s a healthy sell-through by week 8?

Many boutiques target 60–70% on key seasonal items.

When should I finalize my spring preorder?

Typically late fall; confirm by line to secure allocations.

What’s the most returned category?

Denim and fitted dresses, fit education is key at POS.