Sizing is the number one issue for first-time rep buyers. Chinese clothing sizes run significantly smaller than US, EU, and UK sizes, and the difference varies by brand, category, and even specific seller. Getting the wrong size means either a return (which is complicated with international shipping) or wearing something that doesn't fit. This guide gives you the tools to measure correctly and order confidently every time.
Why Rep Sizing Is Different
Most rep clothing is manufactured in China for the domestic market, where average body proportions differ from Western standards. Even when sellers label items as "US size" or "EU size," they're often using Chinese sizing as the base and adding a conversion that may not be accurate.
Additionally, different brands have different fits even at the same size. A Supreme hoodie rep will fit differently than an Essentials hoodie rep, even if both are labeled XL. Always check the specific measurements rather than relying on size labels alone.
How to Take Your Measurements
Chest
Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape horizontal. Don't pull too tight.
Shoulders
Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the other across the back.
Sleeve Length
Measure from the shoulder seam to the wrist with your arm slightly bent.
Body Length
Measure from the highest point of the shoulder down to the hem.
Waist
For pants, measure around your natural waist (not your hip). For tops, measure around the narrowest part of your torso.
Inseam
For pants, measure from the crotch seam to the bottom of the leg.
Size Conversion Chart
This chart covers the most common rep clothing categories. Always cross-reference with the specific seller's measurements when available.
| US Size | EU Size | Chinese Size | Chest (cm) | Shoulder (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 44 | S | 84-88 | 40-42 |
| S | 46 | M | 88-92 | 42-44 |
| M | 48 | L | 92-96 | 44-46 |
| L | 50 | XL | 96-100 | 46-48 |
| XL | 52 | 2XL | 100-104 | 48-50 |
| 2XL | 54 | 3XL | 104-108 | 50-52 |
| 3XL | 56 | 4XL | 108-112 | 52-54 |
Brand-Specific Sizing Notes
Different rep brands have different fits. Here's what the community has found:
Essentials / Fear of God
Runs true to US size. The oversized fit is intentional — don't size down thinking it's too big.
Supreme
Size up one. Supreme reps tend to run small, especially in box logo hoodies.
Chrome Hearts
Size up one to two sizes. Chrome Hearts reps are notorious for running very small.
BAPE
Size up one. Japanese sizing is even smaller than standard Chinese sizing.
Palace
True to US size in most cases. Check individual product measurements to be sure.
Off-White
True to size for most items. The industrial belt and accessories are one-size-fits-all.
Pants and Shorts Sizing
Pants sizing is even more variable than tops. The waist measurement is usually the most reliable guide, but inseam length can vary significantly between sellers. If you're between sizes, size up for pants — you can always wear a belt, but you can't make pants bigger.
For shorts, the length is often shorter than retail. If you prefer longer shorts, consider sizing up or specifically looking for sellers who note the exact length in their product description.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm between sizes?
Always size up when in doubt. It's much easier to wear a slightly larger item than one that's too small. For hoodies and sweatshirts, sizing up also gives you the oversized look that's currently trending.
Can I request custom sizing from rep sellers?
Some sellers on Weidian and Taobao offer custom sizing for an additional fee, but this is rare for rep streetwear. Most items are produced in standard sizes. Your best bet is to find the size that matches your measurements most closely.
How do I measure a garment I already own to compare?
Lay the garment flat on a surface and measure the chest width (multiply by 2 for the full chest measurement), shoulder width, sleeve length from shoulder seam, and body length. Compare these measurements to the seller's size chart.
Key Takeaways
Getting the right size for rep clothing requires a bit of homework, but it's worth the effort. Take your measurements in centimeters, consult the size chart, and when in doubt, size up. Pay special attention to brand-specific sizing quirks — Chrome Hearts and BAPE in particular run very small. With the right size, your rep pieces will look and feel just as good as the retail versions.
