Buying & merchandising

Size curve

RETAILBOSS ReferenceUpdated November 2, 2026

A size curve is the planned distribution of inventory across sizes for a product, category or customer group.

How it works in retail

Buyers use available demand evidence and fit information to allocate quantities. The distribution can vary by brand, store, channel and product.

A retail example

A buyer allocates more units to sizes with stronger expected demand instead of purchasing every size in equal quantities.

What to keep in mind

Sales history can understate demand for sizes that frequently sold out. Returns, fit changes and unavailable sizes should be considered when reviewing the curve.

Examples are illustrative. Terminology and measurement conventions can vary by business and market.

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