Jacket Sizes

Jacket sizes use different systems — chest-based numbers with short, regular and long lengths for tailored jackets, S–XXL for casual coats, and different number scales in the US, UK and Europe. Enter your measurements to find your likely jacket size and see it converted across systems, then use the charts and fit checks below.

How men’s jacket sizes work

Men’s tailored jackets — suit jackets, blazers and sport coats — are sized by chest measurement in inches plus a length. A 40R is for a 40-inch chest and regular height. Lengths are usually Short (under about 5 ft 8 in), Regular (about 5 ft 8 in to 6 ft), Long (about 6 ft 1 in to 6 ft 3 in) and Extra Long (taller). Europe and Italy use chest size plus 10 (a 40 becomes a 50), and UK sizes match the US. Suits are traditionally cut with a 6-inch “drop”: a 40 jacket comes with 34 trousers.

Men’s jacket size chart

Casual jackets, parkas and outerwear often use letter sizes, and the chest ranges differ between brands. Outerwear is also cut roomier to fit over layers.

Women’s jacket size conversion

Women’s sizes vary widely between brands and countries, so these conversions are a starting point. Always check the brand’s own chart, which usually lists bust, waist and hip in inches or centimetres.

How to measure for a jacket

1. Chest / bust: measure around the fullest part, under the arms and across the shoulder blades, keeping the tape level. Wear a thin shirt, not a jumper.
2. Waist: around your natural waist, the narrowest part of your torso.
3. Shoulders: across the back from shoulder point to shoulder point.
4. Sleeve: from the shoulder point to the wrist bone with your arm relaxed.
5. Height: without shoes, for choosing short, regular or long.

Ask someone to help if you can — measuring your own back is difficult — and keep the tape snug but not tight.

How a jacket should fit

• Shoulders — the seam sits at the edge of your shoulder; no divots or overhang. Shoulders are the hardest part to alter, so prioritise them.
• Chest — buttoned, the jacket lies flat without an X-shaped pull around the button.
• Sleeves — end at the wrist bone, showing about ¼–½ inch of shirt cuff.
• Length — a classic suit jacket covers the seat; modern cuts are a little shorter.
• Collar — sits against the shirt collar without a gap at the back.
• Movement — you can reach forward and raise your arms without the jacket riding up excessively.

Worked example

Daniel measures a 41-inch chest, a 35-inch waist and stands 5 ft 11 in (71 in). The size finder rounds his chest to 42 and gives a length of Regular: 42R, EU 52. His drop is 6 inches, so standard suits with 36 trousers should fit. In casual jackets he would usually take a Large. If a 42R feels loose in the chest but right in the shoulders, trying a slim-fit 42R or a 41R from a brand that makes odd sizes is the next step.

What alterations can fix

Buy the jacket that fits your shoulders and chest, then have a tailor adjust the sleeves and waist.

Outerwear sizing

Coats and outdoor jackets are sized to go over other clothes. If you are between sizes, choose the larger size for coats you will wear over thick knitwear or a suit jacket, and the smaller size for shell jackets worn over thin layers. Check the product description for “relaxed”, “regular” or “slim” fit, and the size chart for the garment’s actual chest measurement, which should be several inches larger than your body chest for a coat.

Sizing for different jacket styles

Privacy

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