Back in the day, the best video editor for simple, basic editing was Windows Movie Maker.
March 27, 2026
March 26, 2026
Be Kind, Rewind
After some years, I've finally uploaded a new video to YouTube.
I've been wanting to upload something for quite a while, but my old i5/GTX 1050Ti laptop wasn't really cutting it.
September 17, 2025
The Great Size Divide: Why XXL and 2XL Are Not the Same
It’s a tale as old as time, or at least as old as ready-to-wear clothing: you grab what you think is your size, only to find it either swimming on you or restricting your every move.
This confusion is amplified when we delve into the seemingly interchangeable world of XXL and 2XL. Many shoppers, and even some retailers, use these terms synonymously, but a closer look reveals a subtle yet significant difference that can make or break your wardrobe choices.
The core of the discrepancy lies in the sizing conventions adopted by different manufacturers and for different types of clothing. Generally, XXL is an extension of standard alpha sizing (S, M, L, XL), while 2XL often signifies a true "plus" or "big and tall" size.
"I used to just assume they were the same," admits Sarah Jenkins, a 34-year-old marketing professional. "I'd order an XXL t-shirt online, and sometimes it would fit perfectly, and other times it would be ridiculously small, like a regular XL. It was so frustrating."
This inconsistency stems from the base sizing the garment is built upon. An XXL in a brand that primarily caters to "athletic fit" or "slim fit" might just be an extra-large with a bit more length or a slightly larger chest. It’s an increment within their existing alpha sizing block.
Conversely, 2XL, particularly in brands that specialize in larger sizes or workwear, often represents a garment that has been completely re-proportioned. This isn't just about adding an inch here or there; it's about a different cut, a wider shoulder, a fuller chest, and more generous hip room.
"When I see a true 2XL, I know it's going to fit comfortably," says Mark Davies, a 48-year-old construction worker. "It's not just bigger, it's proportioned for a larger frame. There's room to move, which is essential for my job."
Think of it this way: if a regular XL shirt measures 24 inches across the chest, an XXL from the same brand might be 25 or 26 inches. However, a true 2XL could start at 27 or 28 inches, and crucially, the armholes might be cut deeper, the sleeves wider, and the overall silhouette designed for a different body shape.
The difference also becomes apparent when considering the "number" sizing associated with plus sizes. For women, for instance, a 1X or 2X often corresponds to specific numerical sizes that are distinct from the numerical equivalents of XL or XXL. While men's sizing typically uses the alpha system, the underlying principles of proportion still apply.
This distinction is brilliantly illustrated in a popular TikTok video by user itsmakaylasmith, which has garnered many views. In the video, she holds two shirts, both labeled with a size that might be confusingly similar.
So, how can you navigate this confusing landscape?
This confusion is amplified when we delve into the seemingly interchangeable world of XXL and 2XL. Many shoppers, and even some retailers, use these terms synonymously, but a closer look reveals a subtle yet significant difference that can make or break your wardrobe choices.
"I used to just assume they were the same," admits Sarah Jenkins, a 34-year-old marketing professional. "I'd order an XXL t-shirt online, and sometimes it would fit perfectly, and other times it would be ridiculously small, like a regular XL. It was so frustrating."
This inconsistency stems from the base sizing the garment is built upon. An XXL in a brand that primarily caters to "athletic fit" or "slim fit" might just be an extra-large with a bit more length or a slightly larger chest. It’s an increment within their existing alpha sizing block.
Conversely, 2XL, particularly in brands that specialize in larger sizes or workwear, often represents a garment that has been completely re-proportioned. This isn't just about adding an inch here or there; it's about a different cut, a wider shoulder, a fuller chest, and more generous hip room.
"When I see a true 2XL, I know it's going to fit comfortably," says Mark Davies, a 48-year-old construction worker. "It's not just bigger, it's proportioned for a larger frame. There's room to move, which is essential for my job."
Think of it this way: if a regular XL shirt measures 24 inches across the chest, an XXL from the same brand might be 25 or 26 inches. However, a true 2XL could start at 27 or 28 inches, and crucially, the armholes might be cut deeper, the sleeves wider, and the overall silhouette designed for a different body shape.
The difference also becomes apparent when considering the "number" sizing associated with plus sizes. For women, for instance, a 1X or 2X often corresponds to specific numerical sizes that are distinct from the numerical equivalents of XL or XXL. While men's sizing typically uses the alpha system, the underlying principles of proportion still apply.
This distinction is brilliantly illustrated in a popular TikTok video by user itsmakaylasmith, which has garnered many views. In the video, she holds two shirts, both labeled with a size that might be confusingly similar.
The first shirt, an XXL, appears noticeably smaller than the second, a 2XL. She overlays measurements to demonstrate the significant difference in chest width, sleeve circumference, and even overall length, despite the similar-sounding labels.@itsmakaylasmith Replying to @maria.i.o what’s the difference of XXL vs 2X? XXL is in straight sizes which is often based off a size 6-8 model. 2X is in plus sizes which is often based off a size 16-18 model. Here’s a closer look at the differences! 2X is usually bigger than XXL and is often on a seperate size chart altogether #sizingproblems #sizingproblem #xxl #plussizes #fashionproblems ♬ bad idea right? - Olivia Rodrigo
So, how can you navigate this confusing landscape?
- Always Check Size Charts: This is the golden rule. Don't rely solely on the label. Compare your body measurements to the brand's specific size chart.
- Read Product Descriptions: Some brands will explicitly state if their XXL is "extended" sizing versus a true "plus" size.
- Consider the Brand's Target Audience: Brands known for catering to a "big and tall" or "plus-size" market are more likely to offer a true 2XL with appropriate proportions.
- Look for "XLT" for Tall Sizes: If length is your primary concern, some brands offer "XLT" (extra-large tall) or "2XLT" (double extra-large tall) which are specifically designed with extra length in the torso and sleeves, rather than just overall girth.
- Don't Be Afraid to Size Up or Down: Even within the same brand, different garment styles can fit differently. Be prepared to adjust your usual size based on the item.
September 25, 2015
The Sims 4K
The Sims 4 in 4K, I forgot that when you take a screenshot using C, it removes the UI, so you can't see how small it is in the corners!
November 18, 2014
Next-Gen Consoles, What I like
There are obvious differences between the Xbox One and PlayStation 4, but what is it you like about each console? Forget the games, this isn't about which game looks better or has a higher or lower resolution and frames per second, it's about features and what they do.
October 14, 2014
Modding the GTA 5 LTS Update Vehicles
Although a bit late to the party with this one, I decided to do a video about modding/customising the new vehicles featured in the latest GTA 5 update. There wasn't much to change, mainly just performance and paint job upgrades.
September 18, 2014
Getting No spam in the Spam Folder
Are you fed up of getting so much spam in your spam folder? What if you could stop the spam from even entering the spam folder? The following applies to GMail, but you could probably do something similar on other web/desktop clients.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
