JP → EU Conversion
Size Guide
Japanese sizing differs from European standards. Use our comprehensive conversion tables to find your perfect fit across tops, bottoms, footwear, and accessories.
Tops & Outerwear
Japanese tops use a numbered system (1–5) alongside S–XXL. Measurements are for the body, not the garment — add 4–6 cm for a comfortable fit.
| JP Size | EU | UK | US | Chest (cm) | Shoulder (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S (1) | 44 | 34 | XS | 84–88 | 42–43 |
| M (2) | 46–48 | 36–38 | S | 88–92 | 44–45 |
| L (3) | 50 | 40 | M | 92–96 | 46–47 |
| XL (4) | 52 | 42 | L | 96–100 | 48–49 |
| XXL (5) | 54–56 | 44–46 | XL | 100–106 | 50–52 |
Note: Japanese brands often label sizes as 1 (S), 2 (M), 3 (L), 4 (XL), 5 (XXL). Some brands like Kapital use Free Size for one-size garments, which typically fits M–L (EU 48–50).
Brand Intelligence
Sizing Tips by Brand
Each Japanese brand has its own sizing philosophy. These recommendations come from years of experience and customer feedback.
Kapital
Runs largeSize down one. Their numbered sizing (1–4) runs generous — a JP 2 often fits like a standard M/L. Boro and patchwork pieces may shrink slightly after first wash.
Visvim
True to sizeGenerally true to JP sizing. Footwear (FBT, Virgil) fits slightly narrow — consider going up 0.5 if you have wide feet. Outerwear is intentionally oversized.
Engineered Garments
Slim cutRuns slim for a workwear-inspired brand. Size up one for a relaxed look. Pants have a high rise — check inseam measurements carefully.
NEEDLES
Varies by lineTrack pants run true to size with a relaxed fit. Rebuild pieces are one-of-a-kind — each item's measurements may differ. Always check individual garment dimensions.
Sacai
Japanese slimRuns small by European standards — size up one or two. Women's pieces are true to JP women's sizing. Hybrid/layered construction adds visual volume without affecting fit.
Sasquatchfabrix.
OversizedIntentionally oversized silhouettes. If you prefer a fitted look, size down one. Their standard sizing aligns with typical JP measurements.
Measure Correctly
How to Find
Your Size
Accurate measurements are the key to a perfect fit when buying Japanese fashion. Use a flexible tape measure and follow these guidelines.
Chest
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, under your arms. Keep the tape level and snug — don't pull tight.
Waist
Measure at your natural waistline — the narrowest point of your torso, usually just above the navel. Relax your stomach.
Shoulder
Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the other, across the back. Follow the natural curve where your arm meets your body.
Inseam
Measure from the crotch seam to the bottom of the ankle bone. For accuracy, measure a pair of well-fitting trousers laid flat.
Foot
Stand on paper, trace your foot, and measure the longest distance from heel to toe. This measurement in cm is your JP shoe size.
General Tips for Japanese Fashion
- Japanese sizes run 1–2 sizes smaller than European equivalents. A JP L is closer to an EU M.
- Always prefer centimetre measurements over letter sizes when available — they are more precise.
- Sleeve lengths in Japan are typically 2–3 cm shorter. Check garment-specific flat measurements.
- "Free Size" (フリーサイズ) garments are designed to fit a range, typically JP M–L.
- When in doubt, size up. Japanese tailoring tends to favour a slimmer, more structured silhouette.
Still unsure about your size? We're here to help.