Common Abbreviations Used in Titles & Descriptions by Clothing Sellers

While searching for that perfect skirt or pair of shoes, you might see several common abbreviations used in the title space.  The use of such abbreviations are often necessary to quickly tell you key features of the item in the limited amount of title space given.  Below are the most common abbreviations you may see in a title or listing and their definition:

Abbreviations Regarding Item Condition:

• NWT:  The item is new and still has retail or store price tag attached to it.
• NWOT:  The item is new but the retail/store tag has been removed.
• NIB:  The item is new in original retail box, often used in shoe listings.
• NWOB:  The item is new without original retail box.
• EUC:  This means the item is in excellent used condition, you may want to see if your seller has a rating chart to tell you exactly what this means to them.  Condition is subjective and one seller may consider something "excellent" while another considers it "good".
• VGC:  This means the item is in very good condition.  Again, condition is subjective so look for a ratings chart or ask the seller to elaborate further if you are in doubt about the items condition.

Abbreviations Regarding Sizing:

• JRS:  The item is junior sized which is often smaller and cut differently than Misses sized items.
• PLUS:  The item is plus sized, or sized for women. 
• P or PET:  The item is petite sized, item will be cut differently to accomodate a smaller silhouette.
• T:  The item is tall size; in most instances the item will be longer in rise, inseam and length.

Abbreviations Regarding Size:

• SZ:  Size
• OSFM/OSFA:  One Size Fits Most/One Size Fits All.  It is important to check the seller's measurements and compare them to a garment that fits you well when an item is "one sized".  This is another subjective area where "one size" may mean different things to different manufacturer's.
• XS or X-Sm:  Item is a size extra small.
• S or SM:  Item is a size small.
• M or Med:  Item is a size medium.
• L or Lrg:  Item is a size large.
• XL or X-Lrg:  Item is a size extra large.

Note:  Sizing can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and garment to garment, it's always a good idea to check the measurements a seller gives in the listing against the measurements of a garment that fits you well to ensure the item will fit you correctly.

Abbreviation Regarding Features:

• SS:  Short Sleeve
• LS:  Long Sleeve
• 3/4 Slv: Three quarter sleeve.

Miscellaneous Abbreviations:

• RET:  Abbreviation for retail, often followed by the price or suggested price the item would sell for at retail.
• VTG:  Vintage item.
• DIY:  Do it yourself item.  Item may be reconstructed from other items or remants that can be used to do/design your own item. 

I hope you found this guide to be a helpful resource to help you better understand common abbreviations while navigating Ebay search pages in the clothing and accessories category.

Please visit my store Scentillation Boutique for a wide selection of quality new and pre-owned clothing, shoes and accessories from regular brands to well known designers.