In Japan, there is an enormous selection of stylish apparel to choose from, whether you go to a clothing store or shop clothing online. However, because Japan’s sizing system differs from that of most Western countries, buying in Japan might be perplexing at times. We’ve put together a complete comparison of Japanese clothing size conversion table to make your life a little easier.
I. The difference between the clothes size of countries
Let’s take a brief look at some key distinctions you’ll likely face when shopping for garments in Japan before we get into detailed Japanese clothing sizes conversion.
Japanese people, on average, are leaner and shorter than their American and European counterparts. When it comes to shopping, most stores stock sizes that are closer to those of the ordinary Japanese individual.
Smaller people who have difficulty finding adult-size apparel in countries such as the United States or Europe will find Japan to be a shopping paradise. Frequently, their issue is the opposite: they are overburdened with choices.
Larger people, on the other hand, have fewer alternatives in Japan when it comes to finding clothing and footwear in their size. However, there are specific retailers in Japan that cater to the demand for larger sizes. In addition, numerous prominent manufacturers sell larger sizes online that aren’t available in their stores.
Finally, individuals with larger budgets may be interested to know that Japan is home to some of the best tailors in the world.
II. The reasons for the differences in the clothing size conversion
Shopping for clothes, regardless of your size, maybe a difficult process if you rely on the tag inside that new skirt. There is a lot of variety between countries, clothing kinds, and even within a single brand. Here are some of the reasons why clothes and shoe sizes differ so much from country to country.
– Vanity Dimensions
Despite the fact that it is sad, many women throughout the world still place high importance on that small number on the label. They want to be able to fit into smaller sizes, and the apparel industry is aware of this. Vanity sizing, often known as vanity labeling, is the practice of putting a lower size on a piece of clothing than it actually is. A skirt or jacket made to a relative industry-standard size 4 will, for example, be labeled as a size 2 to make women feel better about fitting into a size 2.
– Various Manufacturing Locations
When different pieces within the same clothing line or brand fit differently, it’s one of the most aggravating aspects of the sizing issue. Customers have reported finding one item that fits well, such as a jacket, only to discover another jacket from the same brand that is too big or too tiny.
This is partly owing to the practice of having different parts of the same clothing line manufactured in different nations. While it may save money, it is detrimental to the company’s brand. Regardless of how stringent the requirements are for each component, some variation always manages to creep through the gaps and affect the final product.
– The Development of Various Sizing Practices in Different Countries
The most basic explanation for this problem is that different countries’ size charts have evolved in different ways over time. This isn’t very shocking. You’ll get a totally different black coffee in England than you will in France if you order one. Each country has its own preferences and ways of doing things, so it’s only logical that clothes and shoe sizes differ as well.
>>> Read more: Convert Japanese shoe size to US with the standard table
III. Women’s Clothing Sizes
1. Understanding Japanese women’s sizes
Japanese women’s clothing sizes are often smaller than their US and European counterparts. Sizes in Japan are typically labeled as S, M, L, or a numerical system such as 7, 9, 11, and 13. These numbers correlate to body measurements in centimeters rather than inches. For instance, a Japanese size 7 might be equivalent to a US size 0-2, depending on the brand.
Another key point to note is that Japanese women’s sizes are tailored for a more petite frame. This means that even if a numerical size appears comparable to US standards, the overall fit may feel tighter, especially in areas like the shoulders and bust.
For those unfamiliar, a Japanese clothing size conversion table can be an essential tool to help determine the right fit when shopping internationally.
2. Japanese women’s size chart
| Japanese Size | Bust (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hips (cm) | US Size Equivalent |
| 7 (S) | 80-83 | 58-62 | 85-88 | 0-2 |
| 9 (M) | 83-86 | 63-67 | 89-92 | 4-6 |
| 11 (L) | 86-89 | 68-72 | 93-96 | 8-10 |
| 13 (XL) | 89-92 | 73-77 | 97-100 | 12-14 |
| 15 (XXL) | 92-95 | 78-82 | 101-104 | 16-18 |
*Size F Japan
The term “Size F” in Japan stands for “Free Size” and is meant to fit a wide range of body types. However, it generally corresponds to a smaller Western medium size. It’s crucial to check the product’s measurements because “free size” is not universal. Many brands use Size F for loose-fitting or stretchable garments such as dresses, sweaters, and blouses, but the fit will still lean towards smaller frames.
3. Japanese bra size to the US size
Bras are another difficult area for foreign women; Japanese women are often less busty and prefer padded and lacy versions that aren’t necessarily very comfortable. Japanese bra size chart is measured using a mix of a cup and underbust measurements (the band size). To determine the band size, use a measuring tape to take the under-bust measurement.
According to the Japanese bra size converter below, in Japan, a size 32 in the United States corresponds to a size 70. A 34 corresponds to a size 75, a 36 to an 80, and so on. Size up one whole cup, sometimes two, for cup size. As a result, a 32A will become a 70B, a 34B will become a 75C, and so on. Try on a few sizes and refer to Japanese bra size conversion to discover what fits best. In many stores, the largest cup size is a D or an E in Japan.
Japanese Bra Sizes – Cup Size
| JAPAN | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K |
| USA | AA | A | B | C | D | DD | DDD | G | H | I | J |
Japanese Bra Sizes – Band Size
| JAPAN | 65 | 70 | 75 | 80 | 85 | 90 | 95 | 100 | 105 |
| USA | 30 | 32 | 34 | 36 | 38 | 40 | 42 | 44 | 46 |
4. Tips for women’s clothing size
- Measure accurately : Use a flexible tape measure to take precise measurements of your bust, waist, and hips in centimeters. These dimensions are key to matching Japanese size charts.
- Consider layering: For outerwear like coats or jackets, size up to accommodate layering with sweaters or thermal wear. These dimensions are key to matching Japanese size charts.
- Check brand-specific charts: Japanese brands can vary significantly in their sizing standards. Always consult the retailer’s specific size chart. Descriptions such as “relaxed fit” or “slim fit” provide additional insight.
- Petite frame design: Japanese clothing often assumes petite proportions with shorter sleeves, narrower shoulders, and shorter overall lengths. Taller or curvier individuals might need to size up or seek out brands offering “tall” or “extended” options.
- Fabric types: Stretchable fabrics (like knits) offer more flexibility, whereas non-stretch materials (like denim) may require a closer fit.
- Reviews and returns: Online reviews, especially with photos, are valuable when shopping online. Ensure you’re aware of return policies in case the item doesn’t fit as expected.
IV. Men’s Clothing Sizes
1. Understanding Japanese men’s sizes
Japanese men’s clothing sizes can be broken down into the following categories: shirts, pants, suits, and shoes. Each type of clothing has unique sizing considerations:
- Shirts: Shirt sizes in Japan are typically labeled S, M, L, and LL, with measurements focusing on the chest and sleeve length. A Japanese L size may feel like a Western M, especially in the shoulders and sleeves.
- Pants: Pants sizing in Japan uses waist measurements in centimeters, often assuming a more slender build.
- Suits: Suits are often sized by chest and waist measurements in centimeters.
- Shoes: Japanese shoe sizes are measured in centimeters and are unisex.
For those converting sizes, a Japanese clothing size conversion table is a helpful reference. Additionally, if you’re looking to understand Japanese sizing to US equivalents, remember that Japanese men’s clothing typically assumes a more slender build with shorter arm and leg lengths.
2. Japanese Men’s Size Chart
| Japanese Size | Chest (cm) | Waist (cm) | Height (cm) | US Size Equivalent |
| S | 84-92 | 72-80 | 160-170 | 34-36 |
| M | 92-100 | 80-88 | 165-175 | 38-40 |
| L | 100-108 | 88-96 | 170-180 | 42-44 |
| LL (XL) | 108-116 | 96-104 | 175-185 | 46-48 |
| 3L (XXL) | 116-124 | 104-112 | 180-190 | 50-52 |
*XXL Japan to US
For Japanese men’s sizes, XXL Japan to US equivalents often translate to a US size 50-52 or an XL in American standards.
3. Tips for men’s clothing sizes
- Pay attention to sleeve lengths: Japanese shirts and jackets may have shorter sleeves than Western styles. Taller individuals should double-check measurements.
- Consider height differences: Japanese sizing often assumes a shorter stature, so taller individuals may need to size up or look for specialty brands catering to international sizes.
- Custom tailoring: Many Japanese retailers offer alterations, which can be helpful for international buyers. For formalwear like suits, tailoring is often included in the purchase price.
>>> Read more: Uniqlo Size Chart For Men and Women
V. Children and Baby Clothing Sizes
1. Understanding Japanese children’s sizes
Clothing sizes for children in Japan are primarily determined by height in centimeters rather than age.The sizing chart typically includes categories such as 70 cm, 80 cm, 90 cm, and so on, with each size corresponding to the average height range of children at that stage of development.
As children grow, their clothing size changes in alignment with their height rather than their age, which means a 3-year-old could wear a 90 cm size or a 5-year-old might wear a 110 cm size depending on their individual growth.
This method of sizing provides parents with a clearer idea of what clothing will fit their child based on actual body size, rather than an age-based estimate, which can sometimes be misleading.
2. Japanese children’s size chart
| Japanese Size | Height (cm) | Weight (kg) | US Size Equivalent |
| 80 | 75-85 | 9-11 | 12-18 months |
| 90 | 85-95 | 11-13 | 2T |
| 100 | 95-105 | 13-16 | 3T |
| 110 | 105-115 | 16-20 | 4-5T |
| 120 | 115-125 | 20-24 | 6-7 |
| 130 | 125-135 | 24-30 | 8-9 |
| 140 | 135-145 | 30-38 | 10-11 |
3. Japanese baby clothing sizes
| Japanese Size | Height (cm) | Weight (kg) | US Size Equivalent |
| 50 | 45-55 | 3-4 | Newborn |
| 60 | 55-65 | 4-6 | 0-3 months |
| 70 | 65-75 | 6-9 | 3-6 months |
| 80 | 75-85 | 9-11 | 6-12 months |
| 90 | 85-95 | 11-13 | 12-18 months |
4. Tips for children and baby clothing sizes
– Measure height and leave room for growth: Height is the most reliable determinant for sizing. Consider sizing up for fast-growing children, especially for seasonal clothing.
– Adjustable features: Look for features like adjustable waistbands, elastic cuffs, and growth-friendly designs for extended usability.
– Material and comfort: Soft, stretchable, and breathable fabrics are best for babies and children to ensure comfort.
>>> Read more: Shipping From Japan To USA – Cost & FAQs
Conclusion
Understanding Japanese clothing sizes can be challenging, especially with the differences between Japanese and Western sizing systems. However, with the help of tools like a Japanese clothing size conversion table and careful measurements, you can confidently shop for Japanese apparel that fits perfectly.
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