Carhartt WIP Size Guide
Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress) is the contemporary, fashion-focused European arm of Carhartt, a legendary American workwear brand founded in 1889. With over 130 years of heritage, Carhartt WIP blends rugged functionality with streetwear aesthetics, drawing inspiration from hip-hop culture, graffiti art, and skateboarding. Known for iconic pieces like heavy-duty chore coats, boxy sweatshirts, durable trousers, and utility-inspired jackets, Carhartt WIP has become one of the world's most influential streetwear labels. The brand appeals to those who value quality, durability, and a relaxed, utilitarian aesthetic. However, it's important to understand that Carhartt WIP's sizing philosophy differs significantly from conventional fashion brands. Pieces are designed with a deliberately oversized, relaxed fit inspired by the brand's workwear roots, making it essential to understand how each category fits before purchasing.
General Sizing Philosophy
Carhartt WIP garments generally run larger than standard streetwear brands. This is intentional—the brand's workwear DNA means most pieces are cut for a relaxed, comfortable fit that allows for layering and movement. However, sizing varies by product category. Trousers tend to be true to size at the waist but loose through the leg, whilst tops, jackets, and hoodies are noticeably oversized with boxy cuts and dropped shoulders. Unisex pieces tend to be larger than women's-specific garments. If you prefer a closer fit, sizing down is often recommended, particularly if you fall between sizes.
How to Measure
- Chest/Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape measure parallel to the ground and snug (but not tight) against your body. Wear a standard-fit t-shirt when measuring.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline (where your trousers normally sit) with the tape measure relaxed but not loose. Do not pull the tape tight.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks, keeping the tape parallel to the ground.
- Length (Tops): For jackets and overshirts, measure from the top of your shoulder (where the seam sits) down to your desired length—typically mid-hip or hip level for Carhartt WIP pieces.
- Inseam (Trousers): Measure from the inside of your thigh where it meets your groin, straight down the inside of your leg to the top of your shoe or ankle bone.
- Arm Length: For jackets and overshirts, measure from the centre back of your neck, across your shoulder, and down your arm to your wrist bone with your arm slightly bent.
- Compare to Charts: Once you have your measurements, cross-reference them with the size charts below. If you fall between sizes, consider the fit guidance for that specific product category.
Men's Size Chart
| Carhartt WIP Size | EU | Chest (inches) | Chest (cm) | Waist (inches) | Waist (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 44 | 34–36 | 86–91 | 28–30 | 71–76 |
| S | 46 | 36–38 | 91–97 | 30–32 | 76–81 |
| M | 48 | 38–40 | 97–102 | 32–34 | 81–86 |
| L | 50 | 40–42 | 102–107 | 34–36 | 86–91 |
| XL | 52 | 42–44 | 107–112 | 36–38 | 91–97 |
| XXL | 54 | 44–46 | 112–117 | 38–40 | 97–102 |
Women's Size Chart
| Carhartt WIP Size | UK | US | EU | Bust (inches) | Bust (cm) | Waist (inches) | Waist (cm) | Hips (inches) | Hips (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 6 | 2 | 34 | 32–34 | 81–86 | 24–26 | 61–66 | 34–36 | 86–91 |
| S | 8 | 4 | 36 | 34–36 | 86–91 | 26–28 | 66–71 | 36–38 | 91–97 |
| M | 10 | 6 | 38 | 36–38 | 91–97 | 28–30 | 71–76 | 38–40 | 97–102 |
| L | 12 | 8 | 40 | 38–40 | 97–102 | 30–32 | 76–81 | 40–42 | 102–107 |
| XL | 14 | 10 | 42 | 40–42 | 102–107 | 32–34 | 81–86 | 42–44 | 107–112 |
| XXL | 16 | 12 | 44 | 42–44 | 107–112 | 34–36 | 86–91 | 44–46 | 112–117 |
Product-Specific Fit Guidance
Jackets & Chore Coats
Carhartt WIP jackets—including the iconic OG Chore Coats, Detroit Jackets, and OG Active Jackets—are designed to be roomy and functional. They feature heavy-duty fabrics, structured shoulders, and generous cuts for layering. Jackets typically fit true to size if you plan to wear them with layers underneath (such as hoodies or sweatshirts). However, if you prefer a more fitted, fashion-forward silhouette, sizing down is recommended. Women's jackets are cut shorter and feature a straighter cut through the shoulders whilst maintaining the boxy aesthetic. These pieces improve with age and develop character over time through wear and weathering.
Sweatshirts & Hoodies
Carhartt WIP sweatshirts and hoodies—particularly the renowned Chase collection—are deliberately cut oversized with heavyweight cotton and boxy silhouettes. These pieces are designed to sit loose on the body. Go true to size if you want that signature slouchy, relaxed aesthetic. However, if you prefer a closer, more fitted look, sizing down is advisable, especially if you are petite or typically wear smaller sizes. Unisex pieces tend to run larger than women's-specific cuts, so women should be particularly cautious with unisex offerings. The heavyweight fabric means these pieces develop a comfortable broken-in feel with wear.
T-Shirts
Carhartt WIP t-shirts are crafted from premium midweight organic cotton jersey and feature a relaxed, boxy fit with generous shoulders. Men's t-shirts fit true to size with an intentional loose aesthetic. Women's t-shirts are cut slightly slimmer and may be cropped in some collections, though they still maintain the brand's characteristic boxy shoulders. If you're between sizes, sizing down for a regular fit is recommended. These graphic tees blend simple, workwear-inspired designs with seasonal statement prints.
Trousers & Work Pants
Carhartt WIP trousers—including Single Knee, Double Knee, cargo pants, chinos, and denims—are true to size at the waist, but run loose through the thigh and leg. This relaxed cut is intentional, honouring the brand's workwear heritage and allowing freedom of movement. Waist measurements are reliable and consistent across styles. However, most styles run slightly long in the leg, so you may need to cuff or have them hemmed depending on your inseam length. Some rigid cotton styles may benefit from sizing up slightly if you fall between sizes, particularly in denim. The durable construction ensures these pieces last for years.
Sizing Tips
- Carhartt WIP is designed to run large overall. Sizing down is especially recommended if you prefer a fitted aesthetic or fall consistently between two sizes.
- Unisex pieces run significantly larger than women's-specific garments. If purchasing unisex hoodies or sweatshirts, women should strongly consider sizing down.
- Trousers are true to size at the waist but loose in the leg—measure your inseam carefully and budget for tailoring or cuffing, as most styles run long.
- Heavy fabrics (denim, canvas, sweatshirt fleece) may require a size up if you prefer comfort and ease of movement, particularly in structured pieces like jackets and cargo trousers.
- Carhartt WIP pieces improve with wear and weathering. Don't be alarmed by a slightly stiff feel in new garments—they develop character and comfort over time.
- If unsure between sizes, consult product images and try to find customer reviews that mention fit. Many retailers offer 60-day returns and free exchanges, making it easier to try different sizes without penalty.
- Layering is central to the Carhartt WIP aesthetic. Always consider what you'll wear under jackets and overshirts when deciding on your size—a size that feels loose on its own may be perfect with a hoodie underneath.
- Women's pieces tend to be cropped or cut with a straighter silhouette compared to the boxy men's counterparts, so do not assume that a unisex size will fit identically to a women's size.
UK to EU Size Conversion Reference
Carhartt WIP uses both UK and EU sizing depending on where you shop. Use this quick reference to navigate between markets:
| Women's UK | Women's EU | Men's Carhartt WIP Size | Men's EU |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 34 | S | 46 |
| 8 | 36 | M | 48 |
| 10 | 38 | L | 50 |
| 12 | 40 | XL | 52 |
| 14–16 | 42–44 | XXL | 54 |
Final Notes
Carhartt WIP's heritage as a workwear brand means that oversized, relaxed fits are not a mistake—they're by design. The brand's aesthetic celebrates function, durability, and a laid-back utility vibe that has become iconic in streetwear culture. Once you find your perfect Carhartt WIP size, many customers find themselves becoming long-term fans, continually adding to their collection year after year. The quality and craftsmanship justify the investment, and pieces typically improve in appearance and comfort with time and wear. If you have any doubts, most retailers offer flexible return policies, so don't hesitate to order multiple sizes and return what doesn't work for you.