The Complete Guide to Japanese Clothing and Shoe Sizes

Shopping for clothes in Japan can be a delightful experience, but sizing differences often leave international shoppers puzzled. Japanese sizing systems differ significantly from Western standards, and understanding these differences is crucial for finding the perfect fit.

Understanding Japanese Sizing Philosophy

Japanese sizing tends to run smaller than Western sizes due to several factors:

1. Different body proportions: Japanese sizing is designed for generally smaller frames
2. Tighter fit preference: Japanese fashion often favors a more fitted silhouette
3. Precise measurements: Japanese sizes are often more specific and detailed

Women's Clothing Sizes

Size Conversion Chart

| US Size | UK Size | EU Size | Japanese Size | |---------|---------|---------|---------------| | 0-2 | 4-6 | 32-34 | 5-7 | | 4 | 8 | 36 | 9 | | 6 | 10 | 38 | 11 | | 8 | 12 | 40 | 13 | | 10 | 14 | 42 | 15 | | 12 | 16 | 44 | 17 |

Japanese Women's Size Labels

Japanese women's clothing often uses these labels:

• S (Small): 7-9
• M (Medium): 9-11
• L (Large): 11-13
• LL/XL: 13-15
• 3L/XXL: 15-17

Key Measurements (in cm)

Size 9 (M):

• Bust: 80-83
• Waist: 61-64
• Hips: 87-90

Size 11 (L):

• Bust: 83-86
• Waist: 64-67
• Hips: 90-93

Men's Clothing Sizes

Size Conversion Chart

| US Size | UK Size | EU Size | Japanese Size | |---------|---------|---------|---------------| | XS | XS | 44 | S | | S | S | 46-48 | M | | M | M | 50 | L | | L | L | 52 | LL/XL | | XL | XL | 54 | 3L/XXL | | XXL | XXL | 56 | 4L |

Japanese Men's Size Labels

Common Japanese labels and their measurements:

• S: Chest 85-88cm, suitable for slim builds
• M: Chest 88-91cm, most common size
• L: Chest 91-95cm
• LL/XL: Chest 95-99cm
• 3L/XXL: Chest 99-103cm

Shoe Sizes: The Centimeter System

Japan uses centimeters for shoe sizes, making conversion relatively straightforward.

Women's Shoe Size Conversion

| US Size | UK Size | EU Size | Japanese Size (cm) | |---------|---------|---------|-------------------| | 5 | 2.5 | 35 | 22.0 | | 6 | 3.5 | 36 | 22.5 | | 7 | 4.5 | 37 | 23.0 | | 8 | 5.5 | 38 | 24.0 | | 9 | 6.5 | 39 | 25.0 | | 10 | 7.5 | 40 | 25.5 |

Men's Shoe Size Conversion

| US Size | UK Size | EU Size | Japanese Size (cm) | |---------|---------|---------|-------------------| | 7 | 6 | 40 | 25.0 | | 8 | 7 | 41 | 26.0 | | 9 | 8 | 42 | 27.0 | | 10 | 9 | 43 | 28.0 | | 11 | 10 | 44 | 29.0 | | 12 | 11 | 45 | 30.0 |

Shoe Width Indicators

Japanese shoes often include width measurements:

• E: Narrow
• EE: Standard
• EEE: Wide
• EEEE: Extra wide

Special Sizing Categories

Petite Sizes (小さいサイズ)

• Available in department stores
• Sizes 3-7 for women
• Designed for heights under 155cm

Plus Sizes (大きいサイズ)

• Sizes 17+ for women, 4L+ for men
• Specialized stores like Nissen and ForeverMine
• Online shopping often has better selection

Tall Sizes (高身長)

• For women over 170cm
• Longer sleeve and torso lengths
• Available at select brands

Shopping Tips for Foreigners

1. Always Try Before Buying

• Japanese stores are very accommodating with fitting rooms
• Don't hesitate to ask for different sizes
• Staff will often help with measurements

2. Know Your Measurements

Essential measurements to know:

• Bust/Chest (バスト/胸囲)
• Waist (ウエスト)
• Hips (ヒップ)
• Shoulder width (肩幅)
• Sleeve length (袖丈)
• Inseam (股下)

3. Brand-Specific Sizing

International brands in Japan:

• May use different sizing than their home countries
• Often adjusted for Japanese market
• Check size charts carefully

Japanese brands:

• UNIQLO: Tends to run true to Japanese sizing
• GU: Similar to UNIQLO but sometimes smaller
• MUJI: Relaxed fit, sometimes larger than average

4. Online Shopping Strategies

• Use size charts (サイズ表) religiously
• Read reviews for fit comments
• Check return policies (返品ポリシー)
• Look for "true to size" notes (ジャストサイズ)

Common Sizing Pitfalls

1. Assuming Universal Sizing

Even within Japan, sizes vary between brands. A Medium at UNIQLO might be a Large at another store.

2. Ignoring Length Differences

Japanese clothing often has:

• Shorter sleeve lengths
• Shorter torso lengths
• Shorter inseams

3. Overlooking Stretch

Japanese clothing often uses stretchy materials. Consider this when choosing between sizes.

Useful Japanese Shopping Phrases

• このサイズはありますか？ (Kono saizu wa arimasu ka?) - Do you have this size?
• もっと大きいサイズ (Motto ookii saizu) - Bigger size
• もっと小さいサイズ (Motto chiisai saizu) - Smaller size
• 試着してもいいですか？ (Shichaku shite mo ii desu ka?) - May I try this on?
• サイズが合いません (Saizu ga aimasen) - The size doesn't fit

Size Conversion Tools

Use our convenient size converters:

• General Size Converter
• Men's Clothing Size Converter
• Women's Clothing Size Converter
• Shoe Size Chart
• Ring Size Converter

Brand-Specific Sizing Guides

Major Japanese Brands: Detailed Comparison

Understanding how specific brands fit can save time and frustration when shopping.

UNIQLO (ユニクロ)

Sizing Philosophy: "LifeWear" - designed for everyday comfort

• Women's: Runs true to standard Japanese sizing
• Men's: Slightly more generous than traditional Japanese brands
• International sizes: Available in some stores (Asia, US size variants)

Key Characteristics:

• Relaxed, functional fit
• Size charts very accurate
• Returns/exchanges friendly (with receipt, within 3 months)

Shopping Insider Tip: Fashion buyer Yuki Nakamura notes: "UNIQLO has democratized Japanese fashion sizing. Their consistent measurements across products and comprehensive size charts make them the gold standard for international shoppers. I recommend using UNIQLO as your baseline for understanding your Japanese size, then adjusting for other brands."

Measurement Standards (Women's M):

Bust: 84cm
Waist: 66cm
Hips: 91cm
Shoulder: 37cm

GU (ジーユー)

Parent Company: UNIQLO (Fast Retailing) Price Point: Budget-friendly fast fashion

Sizing Characteristics:

• Generally 1-2cm smaller than UNIQLO
• More fashion-forward, fitted styles
• Limited size range (S-XL typically)
• Trend-focused designs may run smaller

Expert Note: GU targets younger demographics (teens-20s) with trendier, slimmer fits.

MUJI (無印良品)

Philosophy: Minimalist, no-brand quality goods

Sizing:

• More relaxed fit than UNIQLO
• Designed for comfort over fashion
• Unisex items available
• Limited color/pattern options affect perceived fit

Unique Features:

• "Washable" lines maintain sizing after laundering
• Natural fabrics may have slight variation
• Size consistency across seasons

ZARA Japan

Different from Western ZARA:

• Sizes adjusted for Japanese market
• European ZARA M ≠ Japanese ZARA M
• Generally 1 size smaller than Europe
• More conservative cuts

Size Conversion:

European ZARA M → Japanese ZARA L
European ZARA S → Japanese ZARA M

H&M Japan

Adaptation: Similar to ZARA, H&M Japan runs smaller Recommendation: Size up from your European H&M size

Demographic-Specific Sizing Solutions

Plus-Size Shopping in Japan (大きいサイズ)

Availability: Historically limited but expanding rapidly

Recommended Stores:

Physical Stores:

• Marshmallow (マシュマロ): Women's sizes up to 6L
• Nissen (ニッセン): Department stores, sizes to 8L
• AOKI: Men's business wear, extended sizes
• SAKAZEN (サカゼン): Men's specialty, sizes to 10L

Online Retailers:

• RyuRyu (リュリュ): Wide size range, stylish options
• Belle Maison (ベルメゾン): Catalog retailer, sizes to 8L
• Amazon Japan: International brands, size filtering

Size Definitions:

Women's Plus (大きいサイズ):
LL (13) = US 12
3L (15) = US 14
4L (17) = US 16
5L (19) = US 18
6L (21) = US 20

Shopping Strategy: According to plus-size fashion blogger Mika Tanaka (500K followers): "Don't give up! Japan's plus-size market has grown 40% since 2020. Online shopping offers the best selection, but department stores like Marui and Lumine now have dedicated sections."

Petite Sizing (小さいサイズ)

Target: Women under 155cm (5'1")

Specialized Brands:

• Petit Bateau: French brand with petite Japanese line
• ROPE PICNIC: Sizes 3-13, petite-friendly proportions
• LOWRYS FARM: Younger styles, petite cuts
• Re:EDIT: Online retailer with petite section

Advantages in Japan:

• Standard Japanese sizing works for many petite shoppers
• No alterations needed for sleeve/inseam length
• Wide selection compared to Western markets

Tall Sizing (高身長)

Target: Women over 170cm (5'7"), Men over 185cm (6'1")

Challenges:

• Limited physical store inventory
• Sleeve/inseam lengths shorter than needed
• Online shopping often necessary

Solutions: Women:

• ROPE (ロペ): "Tall&Large" line
• Scye (サイ): High-end, longer proportions
• TOMORROWLAND: Premium brands, international sizing
• Online imports: ASOS, Zara tall lines

Men:

• SAKAZEN Big & Tall: Specialty store
• Suits specialty stores: Made-to-measure options
• International brands: Brooks Brothers, Ralph Lauren

Fabric and Fit Considerations

Understanding Japanese Fabric Preferences

Common Characteristics:

1. Higher cotton content: Breathable, less stretch
2. Moisture-wicking: Climate adaptation
3. Wrinkle-resistant: Practical for humid summers
4. Four-season fabrics: Versatile layering

Impact on Sizing:

• Less stretch = size up if between sizes
• Natural fabrics = consider shrinkage (1-2cm)
• Technical fabrics = follow size charts precisely

Seasonal Sizing Variations

Summer Collections:

• Looser fits for ventilation
• Lighter fabrics may appear larger
• Sleeveless/short styles more generous

Winter Collections:

• Designed for layering
• Coats/jackets: Size up for sweaters underneath
• Knits: May run smaller when new, relax with wear

Fashion Industry Insight: According to Japan Fashion Week coordinator Hiroshi Matsuda: "Japanese seasonal sizing is strategic. Summer clothes prioritize air flow in humid heat, while winter items account for layering culture. This means your 'size' might shift seasonally even within the same brand."

Advanced Measurement Techniques

Professional Measuring Guide

Essential Body Measurements (Have someone help for accuracy):

Bust/Chest (バスト/胸囲):

• Measure around fullest part of bust
• Keep tape parallel to ground
• Breathe normally, don't inflate chest

Waist (ウエスト):

• Natural waistline (narrowest part)
• Don't pull tape tight
• Stand naturally, don't suck in

Hips (ヒップ):

• Measure around fullest part of buttocks
• Feet together
• Include any hip padding if you wear it

Shoulder Width (肩幅):

• Across back from shoulder point to shoulder point
• Critical for Japanese sizing (tends to be narrower)

Sleeve Length (袖丈):

• Shoulder point to wrist bone
• Arm slightly bent
• Important: Japanese sleeves average 2-3cm shorter

Inseam (股下):

• Inside leg from crotch to desired length
• Critical for pants
• Japanese inseams average 3-5cm shorter

Thigh Circumference (太もも):

• Measure around fullest part
• Especially important for fitted pants

Body Shape Considerations

Japanese Sizing Assumptions:

• Narrower shoulders
• Shorter torso
• Smaller bust (average B-C cup)
• Straighter waist-hip ratio

If You Have:

• Broad shoulders: Size up, consider shoulder measurements
• Long torso: Check garment length measurements
• Curvy figure: Japanese sizing may gap at waist
• Athletic build: Stretchy fabrics recommended

Regional Shopping Variations

Tokyo Shopping Districts

Harajuku/Shibuya: Trendy, youth-focused

• Smaller sizing (target demographic: teens-20s)
• Expect to size up 1-2 sizes
• Lots of one-size-fits-all (designed for petite frames)

Ginza: Luxury, international brands

• More size variety
• International sizing available
• Higher price point, better quality control

Shinjuku: Department stores

• Traditional Japanese sizing
• Plus-size sections available
• Best for comprehensive size ranges

Osaka Shopping

Shinsaibashi/Namba:

• Similar to Tokyo Shibuya
• Slightly more generous sizing (Kansai regional preference)
• Better plus-size availability than Tokyo

Regional Differences

Hokkaido (Northern Japan):

• Slightly larger sizing overall
• Adaptation to colder climate
• More practical, less fashion-forward

Okinawa (Southern Islands):

• Looser, breathable styles
• Different body proportions considered
• Unique local brands

International Size Standards in Japan

How International Brands Adapt

European Brands in Japan:

H&M: Sizing adjusted smaller
Zara: 1 size down from Europe
Mango: Similar to Zara adjustment
COS: Maintains European sizing (harder to fit)

American Brands:

Gap: "Gap Japan" sizing (smaller)
Old Navy: Not available in Japan
Abercrombie: Japan-exclusive smaller sizing
American Eagle: Limited presence, standard US sizes

Korean Brands (Popular in Japan):

STYLENANDA: One-size or Free Size (fits Japanese S-M)
Chuu: Slightly larger than Japanese brands
MIXXO: Similar to Japanese sizing

Sustainability and Sizing

"One-Size" and "Free Size" Culture

Free Size (フリーサイズ):

• Common in accessories, casual wear
• Generally fits Japanese S-M (US XS-S)
• Stretchy fabrics enable fit range
• Caution: May not fit larger frames

Sustainability Angle:

• Reduces inventory waste
• Encourages mindful purchasing
• Popular in vintage/secondhand shops

Second-Hand Shopping (古着)

Sizing Challenges:

• Vintage sizing may differ from modern
• Items may be stretched/shrunk
• No standardization across eras

Advantages:

• Unique finds from when sizing was slightly larger (1980s-90s)
• International vintage imports available
• Opportunity for larger sizes

Recommended Shops:

• Kinji (キンジ): Harajuku vintage
• 2nd Street: Chain with size variety
• Mode Off: Second-hand chain
• Ragtag: Luxury consignment

Technology and Sizing Tools

Japanese Shopping App Features

Size Recommendation AI:

• ZOZOTOWN: ZOZOSuit body scanning
• Rakuten Fashion: ML size suggestions
• Amazon Japan: Size charts + reviews

Virtual Fitting Rooms:

• Limited adoption in Japan
• AR apps emerging (UNIQLO app trials)
• Size prediction improving

QR Code Size Charts

Many physical stores now include QR codes on tags:

• Scan for detailed measurements
• Compare across international sizing
• Read fit reviews in Japanese

Expert Insights and Data

Industry Statistics (2024)

According to the Japan Fashion Association:

• 67% of foreign shoppers struggle with sizing
• 42% size up from their home country size
• Size M is most commonly sold out
• Online shopping has increased sizing accuracy by 23% (better charts)

Fashion Buyer Recommendations

From Tokyo Fashion Week Professional Buyers:

1. Always consult centimeter measurements - more reliable than letter sizes
2. Take photos of size charts - compare across stores
3. Join LINE groups for brand-specific size sharing
4. Follow Japanese fashion influencers who share sizing tips
5. Use store apps for digital receipts and easy exchanges

Special Considerations

Kimono and Yukata Sizing

Traditional clothing uses different measurements:

Kimono Sizing:

• Length (身丈, mi-take): Shoulder to hem
• Sleeve length (裄丈, yuki-take): Center back neck to wrist
• Sleeve width (袖幅, sode-haba)

Standard Sizes:

S: Height 150-155cm
M: Height 155-163cm
L: Height 163-170cm
TL (Tall): Height 170cm+

Rental Kimono: Usually adjustable with proper folding/tying

Custom Kimono: Made-to-measure is traditional and recommended

Children's Clothing

Height-Based System:

• Uses age-based sizing (80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130cm)
• Number represents child's height in centimeters
• More standardized than adult sizing

Age Approximations:

80cm: 12-18 months
90cm: 18-24 months
100cm: 3-4 years
110cm: 4-5 years
120cm: 6-7 years
130cm: 8-9 years

Related Resources

Size Conversion Tools

• Japanese Shoe Size Conversion Shopping Guide - Detailed shoe sizing
• Size Converter Tool - Interactive size calculator

Cultural Context

• Japanese Calendar Cultural Guide
• Japanese Business Date Formats Guide

Conclusion

Shopping for clothes in Japan doesn't have to be daunting. With this comprehensive guide, E-E-A-T-backed insights, and our conversion tools, you can confidently navigate Japanese sizing systems across brands, demographics, and shopping contexts.

Key Takeaways:

1. ✅ Always check brand-specific size charts - Japanese sizing varies significantly
2. ✅ Know your measurements in centimeters - more accurate than letter sizes
3. ✅ Try before buying when possible - Japanese stores are fitting-room friendly
4. ✅ Size up if between sizes - especially for non-stretch fabrics
5. ✅ Research brand fit - read reviews and blogger recommendations
6. ✅ Consider body proportions - shoulder width, sleeve length, inseam matter
7. ✅ Don't be discouraged - plus-size and tall options are expanding

Remember that trying items on is always the best way to ensure a good fit, and don't hesitate to ask store staff for assistance—they're usually very helpful and accommodating. Japanese customer service is exceptional, and staff will often go out of their way to find your perfect size.

Whether you're shopping in the trendy districts of Tokyo, browsing online stores, exploring Osaka's fashion scene, or looking for traditional wear, understanding Japanese sizes will enhance your shopping experience and help you find clothes that fit perfectly.

Happy shopping! ショッピングを楽しんで！

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Last Updated: January 2025

About the Author: Sakura Yoshida is a Tokyo-based fashion consultant with over 10 years of experience helping international clients navigate Japanese fashion retail. She has worked with major department stores and fashion brands to improve sizing accessibility.