A jacket in the wrong size won't sit well, however good the fabric: the shoulders don't fit, the sleeves are too long or the chest pulls. If you buy without trying it on, for example online, knowing your measurements and checking them against a size chart lowers that risk.
How Is Jacket Size Determined?
Jacket size is set by measuring a few key points on the upper body. Each brand's pattern (slim fit, regular fit or comfort fit) differs, but widely used standard size charts exist. The measurement that decides the size is usually chest circumference.
To look more closely at your body shape and proportions, use the Body Type Calculator to see which jacket cuts suit you. Take your measurements on an ordinary day when you don't feel bloated. You can also check your BMI to better understand where you stand in general size charts.
How to Take Chest, Waist and Shoulder Measurements
For an accurate measurement, hold the tape firm but not tight against your body, and follow these steps:
- Chest Measurement: Let your arms hang freely at your sides. Pass the tape just under the armpits, across the widest point of the chest. Make sure the tape is parallel to the floor.
- Shoulder Measurement: Measure from one shoulder tip to the other across the upper back. The shoulder seams of the jacket should sit exactly here.
- Waist Measurement: Measure the narrowest part of your waist. This matters if you want to move comfortably with the jacket buttoned. For the belt area, see the Belt Size Calculator.
- Sleeve Length: Measure from the shoulder tip to the wrist bone.
Men's Jacket Size Chart
Men's jacket sizes are typically expressed as numbers corresponding to half the chest circumference (such as 48, 50, 52) or international letter codes.
- XS (Size 44): Chest 84–87 cm
- S (Size 46–48): Chest 88–95 cm
- M (Size 50): Chest 96–99 cm
- L (Size 52–54): Chest 100–107 cm
- XL (Size 56): Chest 108–111 cm
- XXL (Size 58): Chest 112–115 cm
- XXXL (Size 60): Chest 116 cm and over
Women's Jacket Size Chart
In women's jackets, waist and hip fit shape the jacket as much as the chest measurement. Underwear can also change how a jacket sits, so when measuring, wear underwear that matches your Bra Size Calculator result.
- XS (Size 32–34): Chest 76–84 cm
- S (Size 36–38): Chest 84–92 cm
- M (Size 40–42): Chest 92–100 cm
- L (Size 44): Chest 100–104 cm
- XL (Size 46): Chest 104–108 cm
- XXL (Size 48–50): Chest 108 cm and over
Things to Consider When Buying a Jacket
The numbers are a guide. For a good fit, also check these details:
- Fabric Stretch: Wool jackets may give very slightly over time, while linen or cotton jackets hold their shape more rigidly. Fabrics with elastane offer a small amount of give.
- Cut Differences: If you buy a Slim Fit jacket, choose a size very close to your measurements. In oversized styles, the shoulders are designed to sit lower on purpose.
- Shoulder Fit: The shoulders are the hardest (and most expensive) part of a jacket to alter. Make sure they fit first.
- Sleeve Length: The jacket sleeve should be long enough to allow about 1–1.5 cm of shirt cuff to show.
Choosing the right size up front means fewer returns and exchanges. Enter your chest measurement in the calculator above to see the EU, US and UK equivalents.