Japanese Garments Sizing and Fitting Guide
Understanding Japonista Sizing & Fit
Japanese garments — especially vintage, artisan-made, or reconstructed pieces — follow sizing traditions that differ from Western standards. This can easily cause confusion, which is why Japonista approaches sizing with precision, transparency, and careful documentation.
How We Measure Each Garment
Every piece is measured flat using a consistent method so you can trust the numbers provided. We include detailed measurements such as:
- Pit-to-pit chest width
- Garment length
- Shoulder width
- Sleeve length
- Hem width
Many items are handcrafted or reworked from kimono fabrics, so small variations in structure, texture, or drape are natural and part of their charm.
How to Choose Your Size
We recommend comparing our measurements with a garment you already own that fits you well. Lay your piece flat, measure it in the same way, and match it against our size chart. This method gives a far clearer picture of fit than relying solely on tag sizes, which vary by era, maker, and fashion trend.
Japanese fashion has evolved across decades — from boxy mid-century cuts to modern streamlined silhouettes. By providing detailed measurements and descriptive fit notes, we help you understand the personality of each garment: whether it leans oversized, fitted, cropped, or traditionally structured.
If you would like guidance, you are very welcome to message us with your preferred fit, body measurements, or a reference garment. Our team will gladly help you choose the best size so that each piece feels like it truly belongs with you.
Sukajan Silhouettes & Jacket Types
For our sizing guide, we reference two primary base styles of Japanese souvenir jackets (sukajan / Yokosuka jumpers) commonly found in the market. Understanding which type your jacket belongs to will make sizing choices much easier.
Please use these diagrams as a reference to distinguish between jacket types and how they are measured. Manufacturer tag sizes (Asian, American, European) do not necessarily translate directly to one another, so the measurement chart remains the most reliable guide.
When in doubt, we strongly advise reaching out to us with your questions. We are happy to offer clarifications, additional photos, or comparison images. In some cases, we can provide model shots for reference so that you can better visualize the fit.
Approximate measurements are given in centimeters. Please allow a small margin for human measuring error and the natural imperfections that come with handcrafted or vintage garments.
BEST ADVICE: Help Us Visualize Your Fit
If you’re unsure, please send us the following details so we can advise you more accurately:
- A cropped body photo showing your build (slim, average, muscular, larger frame).
- Your preferred fit: just right, slim fit, loose, or extra loose.
- Any specific requests regarding sleeve length, body length, or layering.
Height and weight also help us imagine your proportions more accurately.
➜ Use our contact form to consult with us about your sukajan スカジャン or jacket.
*We treat your personal information with care, discretion, and integrity.