How to measure yourself for Japanese fashion

Japanese brands publish their measurements in centimetres and almost never in US/UK letter sizes. Get these three numbers right and almost every guide on this site becomes useful.

The three numbers you need (in cm)

Bust

Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, keeping it level all the way around. Breathe normally — don’t hold your breath.

Waist

Find the narrowest part of your torso, usually a bit above the belly button. Wrap the tape level and snug, but not tight.

Hip

Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, again keeping the tape level. Stand with your feet together.

Convert from inches: 1 inch ≈ 2.54 cm. (Example: 36" bust ≈ 91 cm.)

How to read a Japanese size chart

The chart usually lists two things side by side:

適応サイズ (tekiō saizu) — the body measurement the piece is designed to fit.
実寸 (jissun) — the garment’s actual flat measurement (chest, length, sleeve, etc).

The piece will only feel right if your body measurement is at or below the “適応サイズ” for your size, and the garment’s 実寸 leaves you a comfortable amount of ease (typically 5–8 cm at the bust for a relaxed fit).

A few things that change how a piece fits

Stretch fabric forgives 2–5 cm of difference. The product page often says 伸縮あり (has stretch) or 伸縮なし (no stretch).
Lace-up or corset backs are adjustable — they usually fit a wider range than the size chart implies.
Elasticated waistbands (ウエストゴム) give you ease at the waist; gathered busts (シャーリング) give you ease across the chest.
Free-size (フリーサイズ) is one size. Always check the actual garment measurement, not just the label.

Once you know your three numbers, head to the brand index to see which brands publish sizes that work for you.

Brand Index →