Layercake sizes run from 0 - UK8-12 to 3 - UK 22-26 (0-3 = US6-22)
So PLEASE check your measurements against our sizes before you order.
The picture showing the models is to illustrate fit (not fabrics), the models ranging from 5'3" to 5'9" wearing sizes 0,1 and 2 over Black Cocoons which you can find HERE.
This page is to choose your Made-to-Order Sturdy Linen Tabard, since we only keep a small selection of ready to ship Tabards in stock. To see all ready to ship Tabards, check HERE.
For Product Details click the tab below the order procedure.
The garment pictures show you a number of colours made up into a Tabard. However, there are many more colours available - 31 in total, grouped into 4 charts. The last chart, MC4, shows colours of which we have VERY little fabric stock left.
How to order your Made to Order Tabard:
- Select the colour chart that shows the colour of your choice.
- Select your size and length, then add to bag.
- On the bag page, type the colour of your choice in the "Note to The Slow Wardrobe" box.
- Check out as usual.
- Your order will take 2-4 weeks to produce. You will receive a shipping notification as soon as it is on its way to you.
The Tabard is an A-line over-piece to wear over pretty much any outfit. Like the Smock, the Tabard has deep armholes, allowing you to wear it over a wide range of tops. It is loose and relaxed, which makes it comfortable, and it is practical with its large pockets. You will love what you see when you catch your reflection in a mirror or window, not to mention the seemingly never-ending stream of compliments you get wearing a Layercake Tabard (have a read of the reviews if you need convincing).
Size 3 Petite: available both in the Smock as well as the Tabard shape for size 3's of 5'4" or less.
Please note that the models in the photos are wearing a Mini-Tabard over the top of the Tabard.
Because the linen used for Layercake over-pieces is very hard-wearing and pre-washed, it is a great piece of work-wear that will get softer with wear and age and last you for years. We dare you to try one; you will not regret it! Not sure about this shape? Have a look at the Smock.
The Slow Wardrobe sizes
We follow our own sizing system, recognising that the traditional system of "ladies dress-sizes" does not account for body shape and height. See how The Slow Wardrobe sizes relate to body measurements HERE.
Smock/Tabard/Mini Tabard/Tail Smock/Felted Wool Jacket
These garments are designed to fit a very wide range of sizes and heights, from a UK size 10 to 28. Check these garment measurements to give you an idea of their dimensions.
| Layercake size |
Garment bust |
Smock waist - hip cm/in |
Tabard waist - hip cm/in |
Smock length cm/in* |
Tabard length cm/in* |
| 0 | 95/38 | 107/42 - 148/58 | 106/42 - 130/51 | 116/45.5 | 104/41 |
| 1 | 112/44 | 118/46 - 166/65 | 116/46 - 144/56 | 122/48 | 110/43.5 |
| 2 | 127/50 | 134/53 - 182/72 | 136/54 - 158/62 | 126/49.5 | 114/45 |
| 3 / 3 petite | 140/55 | 150/59 - 192/76 | 152/60 - 180/71 | 132/52 - 119/47 | 118/46.5 - 106/41.5 |
* from shoulder to longest point
Apron:
The Apron sizing is close to our Smocks and Tabards (0, 1, 2 and 3) so if you know your Smock/Tabard size then choose the corresponding Apron size. However, the Apron shape is more open around the bust, so there is some more flexibility if you prefer to wear it more or less fitted.
NOTE: length measurements are taken from the top of the shoulder straight down to the bottom hem.
See the most important guides in the grid below.
| Layercake size |
UK dress size |
Maximum recommended bust |
High Hip (measured 10 cm / 4 in below belly button) |
Total length min/max |
| 0 | 8 - 12 | 95 cm / 38 in | 104 cm / 41 in | 105-110 cm / 41-43 in |
| 1 | 12 - 18 | 109 cm / 43 in | 112 cm / 44 in | 112-117 cm / 44-46 in |
| 2 | 16 - 22 | 122 cm / 48 in | 124 cm / 49 in | 118-123 cm / 46.5-48.5 in |
| 3 | 20 - 26 | 138 cm / 54 in | 138 cm / 55 in | 118-123 cm / 46.5-48.5 in |
Custom sizes
We do everything we can to be truly size-inclusive. We can highly individualise your Layercake, by adapting the standard fit and/or choosing a non-standard fabric/colour.
Linen Care & Washing Instructions
Every Layercake has washing labels sewn into them, usually in the left side-seam. All our linen is pre-shrunk, unless stated otherwise and can be machine-washed at 40º C and either line-dried or machine-dried. If you machine-dry them, take them out of the dryer as soon as it finishes and hang them up straightaway, then you will not have to iron them.
Our Linen
Linen is one of the world's strongest textiles and most sustainable fashion choices, creating zero waste as every part of the plant is used (for textiles and food). Our linen is all European grown, yarn-dyed and woven especially for us, then boil-washed to pre-shrink it.
Find out more about our linen.
Wearability
Linen is not only a Summer fabric, it is also a natural insulator, providing warmth when it is needed and offering the perfect base for a layered look, trapping air between the layers to keep you cozy year-round.