Japanese Clothing Sizes (M, L, LL, 3L, 4L) to US Conversion
Japanese clothing sizes confuse a lot of shoppers — partly because they run 1–2 sizes smaller than US, and partly because of the LL / 3L / 4L labels. This guide converts Japanese sizes (letter and numeric) to US so you order the right one.
Japanese to US Size Conversion
| Japan (letter) | Japan (women's numeric) | US size |
|---|---|---|
| S | 5–7 | XS (0–2) |
| M | 9 | S (4–6) |
| L | 11 | M (8–10) |
| LL (XL) | 13 | L (12–14) |
| 3L (XXL) | 15 | XL (16) |
| 4L (3XL) | 17 | XXL (18) |
Notes
The LL / 3L / 4L system. Japan (and much of East Asia) extends sizing with doubled letters: LL means XL, 3L means XXL, 4L means 3XL, and so on. So a Japanese '3L' is roughly a US XL, not a US 3XL — a common and expensive mistake when shopping.
Japanese sizes run 1–2 smaller. A Japanese L is closer to a US M than a US L. If you're between sizes or buying fitted items, size up one from your usual US size when buying Japanese brands.
Women's numeric sizes (5, 7, 9…). Japanese women's wear often uses odd numbers — 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 — where 9 is the 'standard' size (≈ US S). Add roughly the same 1–2 size gap when converting.
Always check the cm measurements. Label conversions are approximate and vary by brand. Japanese size charts usually list bust/waist/hip in centimeters — match those to your body for the most reliable fit.
FAQs
What is Japanese size LL in US?
Japanese LL means XL and converts to roughly a US L (about 12–14). Remember Japan runs 1–2 sizes smaller than US, so don't read 'LL' as US XL.
What is Japanese 3L or 4L in US?
Japanese 3L is about a US XL and 4L is about a US XXL. The L-multiplier system means 3L = XXL and 4L = 3XL in Japanese terms, but because Japan runs smaller, they land roughly one US size down.
Do Japanese clothes run small?
Yes, typically 1–2 sizes smaller than US. A Japanese L is closer to a US M. When buying Japanese brands, size up from your usual US size and confirm against the cm measurements on the chart.
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