Happi Coat Sizing: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Happi coats are a type of traditional Japanese coat, usually worn during festivals. They are shorter-length versions of the kimono and yukata and are typically made of cotton or polyester. The coats often feature bold calligraphy symbols and designs in colours such as red, black, and white on a dark-coloured background. Sizes for happi coats vary, with some sources offering a Small/Medium option for individuals between 5'2 and 5'11 in height, and a Large/XL option for individuals between 5'4 and 6'2 in height. Other sources offer happi coats in sizes XS-2X and S-4X.

What size Happi coat for a 5'2 man?

A happi coat is a traditional Japanese coat with tube-style sleeves, usually worn during festivals. They typically feature symbols and text on the lapels, with a larger design on the back. Happi coats are often blue with red, black, and white designs, but modern versions may feature a variety of colours.

When it comes to sizing, happi coats typically come in a standard medium/large size, which is designed to fit men with a height ranging from 5'3" to 6'1". This size option measures 45" in length, with a 14" sleeve length, a 29" shoulder width, and a 52" girth. The girth refers to the entire width of the fabric, allowing the robe to adjust to various waist sizes.

For a man with a size 52 measurement, the medium/large happi coat would be a suitable option. This size is designed to accommodate individuals with a waist size of up to 52 inches. The length of the happi coat is also important to consider. The medium/large size is designed for men with a height between 5'3" and 6'1". If the man's height falls within this range, the happi coat should fall at an appropriate length.

It is worth noting that happi coats are designed to be wrapped around the body and tied with a belt, providing some adjustability. Therefore, a standard medium/large happi coat should fit a man with a size 52 waist comfortably, with the ability to adjust the coat for a custom fit.

What size Happi coat for a 6'2 man?

A Happi coat is a traditional Japanese coat, usually worn during festivals. They are a shorter-length version of the kimono and yukata. Happi coats are made of 100% cotton and typically feature bold calligraphy symbols and designs.

When it comes to sizing, Happi coats typically come in two sizes: Small/Medium and Large/XL. A Small/Medium Happi coat is designed to fit men with a height ranging from 5'2" to 5'11", while a Large/XL can accommodate heights from 5'4" to 6'2". The sleeve length, shoulder width, and girth differ between the two sizes, with the Large/XL option having larger measurements.

For a 62-inch man, the Large/XL size would be the most suitable option. The length of the coat will fall just above the knee, and the sleeve length and shoulder width will provide a comfortable fit. The girth, or the entire width of the fabric, is designed to adjust to many waist sizes, as the robe wraps around and fastens with a belt.

It is recommended to measure yourself with a tape measure from the top of your shoulder down your side to determine where the length of the coat will fall. Keep in mind that Happi coats fall shorter on taller men and longer on shorter men.

What is the history of the Happi coat?

The Happi coat, or "happy coat", is a traditional Japanese garment with a long history. It is a short, wide-sleeved overcoat, usually made of lightweight cotton, that is wrapped around the body and tied with an obi belt. The coat is typically decorated with symbols and text representing different associations, such as family crests, industry or group symbols, or the name of a business or festival.

The Happi coat originated during the Edo period (1603-1867/1868) in Japan. During this time, social restrictions regarding marks of rank were relaxed, allowing the garment to be worn by both the wealthy and the working class, and eventually, by both men and women. Originally, Happi coats were worn by servants and firefighters as a type of uniform, displaying the crest of the family or group they were associated with. The coats were also worn by labourers as protective jackets.

Over time, the Happi coat transitioned from being purely functional to becoming a fashion statement. Women began wearing the coats as protective jackets over their kimonos, and the garment's simple yet elegant design began to influence global fashion trends. Today, the Happi coat is commonly seen during festivals and other events, worn by members of social groups and religious organisations to denote membership or affiliation. The coats have also become popular as bathrobes, lounge robes, and cover-ups at the beach or pool.

The design of the Happi coat has evolved over the centuries, with the solid brown or indigo blue colours of the past being replaced by vibrant colours and varied patterns that signify symbolic cultural references such as the sakura blossom, the crane, or the dragon. The coats are typically made of cotton, although polyester versions have become popular among the younger generation for cosplay. The shape, length, and design of the Happi coat have also become more stylish, with modern iterations featuring a one-size-fits-all design that can be styled in various ways.

What is a Happi coat made from?

Happi coats are traditional Japanese coats that are usually worn during festivals. They are made from carefully selected quality cotton fabric, sewn with sophistication, and dyed with expert skills. The fabric is chosen to have a smooth texture and colours with depth. The dye is designed to fade over the years, enhancing the colour and making each coat unique to its owner.

Happi coats are typically blue with designs in red, black, and white, though they can also be found in other colours. The coats usually feature symbols and/or text on the lapels, with a larger design on the back, such as the name of the festival or the participating association. The kanji for 'festival' (祭 or matsuri) may also be present.

In the past, happi coats were worn as a uniform by house servants and firefighters. The coats served to display the mon, or family emblem. Firefighters also wore heavily quilted cotton happi coats that were designed to hold a large amount of water and provide protection.

Today, happi coats can be made from either cotton or polyester fabrics. Polyester happi coats are often worn by the younger generation for cosplay and are cheaper than traditional cotton happi coats.

How do you make a Happi coat?

Happi coats, also known as hanten, are Japanese garments traditionally worn by shopkeepers as uniforms. They are also worn during festivals and in the restaurant business. The coat is tube-sleeved and usually features symbols, text, or a family crest on the lapels, with a larger design on the back.

Prepare the Coat Pattern:

Get a friend to help you take your measurements. Measure the distance between your outstretched arms and divide this by four to get the width. Measure the distance from the nape of your neck to your knees for the height. Also, measure the width of your hand at its widest point for the sleeve width.

Cut the Fabric:

Cut two rectangles for the sleeves that are as wide as the sleeve width measurement and as long as the height measurement. Cut two more rectangles for the body that are as wide as the width measurement and twice as long as the height measurement. Finally, cut one rectangle that is half the width measurement and twice the height measurement plus 8 inches.

Pin and Sew the Body Pieces:

Take the body pieces and pin them together at the long edges, right sides together, stopping at the midpoint to create the center back seam. Sew this seam, then iron the seam allowances flat and zigzag stitch the raw edges.

Attach the Sleeves:

Pin and sew the short edges of the sleeve pieces to the long edges of the body, matching the midpoints. Press and stitch the seam allowances. Fold the body and sleeves at the midpoints, wrong sides together, and stitch the side seams from the wrist to the body hem.

Hem the Body and Sleeves:

Turn up the hem of the body and sleeves by half an inch, and then another half an inch. Sew along the folded edges.

Create the Neck Hole:

At the shoulder edge, cut a slit on each side that is half the sleeve width measurement.

Prepare the Collar:

Press flat 1-inch seam allowances along the length of the collar piece on both sides and zigzag stitch the raw edges.

Attach the Collar:

Sew one long side of the collar to the front edges of the body, matching the midpoint of the collar with the center back seam. Fold the collar inside, covering the seam allowances, and hand-stitch it to the inside of the coat. Iron the collar flat.

Finish the Collar:

Fold up the hanging edges of the collar and tuck them into the tube created by the rest of the collar. Hand-stitch the tube closed.

Your Happi coat is now complete! You can add your own designs or family crests to the coat for a more personalized touch.

Frequently asked questions