Hello♡ Here comes the Japanese fashion lover - Siah again!!
Being a foreign Japanese-fashion lover, we love shopping in Japan but there are always some inevitable moments we feel awkward because of the unawareness of the general norms in Japanese apparel world.
I think it will be a total waste if this “unpleasant feeling” become one of the hesitations for Japanese fashion lovers out there to shop.
This is why I want to share you some general knowledge of the fashion world of Japan that I have obtained from my past working experience in EMODA.
I will be very glad to know if such information can relieve you a little from the shopping stress in Japan.
The first topic we will talk about today might be one of the main interests of every shopper:
♡♡The Sizes♡♡
So here we go~!!
Sizes of Tops, Jackets, Dresses- Only S, M and F
In our country, we can easily find sizes ranged from extra-small (XS) to extra-large(XL) for a top.
However in Japan, there are usually only 2 kinds of size measurements, which are small(S) and medium(M). Other than that, there are always free sizes available, which I find quite common in Japan.
Sizes of Shoes-S,M,L,XL
Perhaps to avoid confusion, shoes merchandise in Japan are usually measured in such way:
XS : Extra-small 21-21.5 cm *rare
S : Small 22-22.5 cm
M : Medium 23-23.5 cm
L :Large 24-24.5 cm
So remember to find out your shoe size in the form of measurement that the fashion industry of Japan practices to save up the communication hassles with the staff!!
Sizes of Bottoms: Denims (S,M,L,XL) and Skirts (S,M)
Sizes of bottoms of Japan don’t really differ that much from the common size scales that we are familiar with.
Skirts are usually in small and medium sizes, but usually they are designed with elastic rubber, making it easier for wearers to fit it.
On the other hand, denim designed items usually come with full sizes from extra small ( XS) to extra large (L).
So don’t worry if you have a heavy bottom, because there is definitely a perfect size waiting for you!
Why are the sizes of tops and skirts only limited to small(S) and medium (M)?
Maybe we are so used to the Western kind of measurement for clothes, which expresses style through emphasizing sexy bodyline of a woman.
One might feel there is some kind of discrimination towards girls in larger sizes in the Japanese fashion world.
However, I think the reason why the sizes are so limited is because most of the designs made in Japan are meant to fit most of the body shapes of Asian ladies.
If you are able to observe, you can find most of the apparel items of Japanese brands are usually designed with loose and slack cuttings (attached with the elastic rubber for easier size adjustments), making it easier for every woman to fit in. With such features, there is no necessity to have too many size variations, isn't it?
The Japanese fashion industry tends to put more focus on creating the perfect balance of the wearer’s body proportion.
So need not worry and focus on putting on the fittest /smallest size on you, but try putting effort in achieving perfect visual balance that matches your body the most!
Have fun shopping in Japan♡!!
I will tell you more about general information such as the general clothes fitting norms, novelty fairs, the exchange and return policies in Japan next time!
You can also give me some feedbacks if there are some specific information that you would like to know!! See ya!!
■■■My Back Number Articles■■■
You think Tokyo is busy city?Then just have a Relaxing Afternoon at L'occitane Cafe, Shibuya
https://www.fun-japan.jp/id/Articles/2014/09/03/02/01/2014090401-Loccitane-Cafe-Shibuya
Vivienne Westwood is very popular! Cute Accessories at Don Quijote
https://www.fun-japan.jp/id/Articles/2014/09/03/01/47/2014090305-Vivienne-Westwood-Accessories
Different "Styles" in the Japanese Fashion World No.2
https://www.fun-japan.jp/id/Articles/2014/09/01/05/26/2014090202-different-styole-in-the-Japanese-Fashion-World-No2
Must buy when you visit Japan as souvenir ! Fuji-San Pocket Tissue Cover ??
https://www.fun-japan.jp/id/Articles/2014/09/01/04/47/2014090105-Fuji-San-Pocket-Tissue-Cover
Very useful!! The 360° Rotating Rack for Clothes Storage!
https://www.fun-japan.jp/id/Articles/2014/08/29/06/29/2014083104-The-360Rotating-Rack-for-Clothes-Storage
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