Clothing: get the measurements right the first time

Measure, do not convert

Asian and European sizing do not map cleanly onto US letters, and streetwear cuts run boxy on purpose. Rather than converting S/M/L, ask for flat measurements in centimetres and compare them against a garment you already own and like. That removes the guesswork entirely.

For hoodies and tees check chest, shoulder, body length and sleeve. For puffers add the fill weight if the seller lists it, and confirm whether the down is real or synthetic — the listing photo will not tell you.

• Chest width, measured flat, armpit to armpit
• Body length, high point of shoulder to hem
• Shoulder width and sleeve length from the shoulder seam
• Print or embroidery close-up: alignment, edge quality and colour density

Outerwear and freight

Down jackets and heavy coats are the worst value per kilo to ship. If a jacket is genuinely needed, ship it with light items rather than alone, and ask about vacuum packing — some routes allow it and it can cut chargeable volume substantially.