When "Parka" Isn’t a Parka: Fashion Terms Lost in Translation

If you ever work with Japanese factories or designers, you may come across words that sound perfectly English—but mean something else entirely. These quirky terms are called Wasei-Eigo (Japanese-made English). They often come from English but have taken on unique meanings in Japan. For people in the global apparel industry, they can cause funny and sometimes confusing situations.

Here are a few examples from everyday fashion, along with some real-life stories:

“fastener” → Zipper

In Japan, “fastener” is the standard word for what English speakers simply call a zipper. The funny part is that if you suddenly say “zipper” to a staff member who has always worked with Japanese specs, they might look puzzled.

One time, I asked one of our Vietnamese staff—who usually handles trim orders— to place an order for “zippers,” following the English spec sheet. To my surprise, she replied: “Okay, I will look for a supplier.” I was confused and said, “But wait, it’s the same item you ordered just last week!”

For her, trained only on Japanese instructions, the word “fastener” was the only correct name. The word “zipper” simply didn’t connect to the same product in her mind.

“Parka” → Hoodie

In Japanese, a light cotton hoodie is called a “parka.” But in English, a parka usually means a heavy winter coat, often fur-lined or insulated. You can imagine the surprise when someone overseas expects thick outerwear but is shown a thin hoodie instead. Same word, very different garment!

“Trainer” → Sweatshirt

In Japan, a sweatshirt is called a “trainer.” But in English, “trainer” usually refers to a coach—or in the UK, to sneakers. It’s a great example of how the same word can send people’s imagination in completely different directions, depending on the country.

“One-piece” → Dress

In Japan, “one-piece” is the standard way to describe a casual women’s dress. But in English, the natural word is just “dress.” For Japanese people, though, the word “dress” sounds a bit too glamorous, often bringing to mind Disney princesses in ball gowns. So when someone says “one-piece,” they’re just talking about a normal everyday dress—nothing formal or fancy. This gap often makes conversations unexpectedly amusing.

But nowadays, when people hear 'One Piece,' they might first think of the straw-hat pirate from the famous manga!

Why does this happen?

After WWII, Japan imported many English words into daily life. Over time, the meanings shifted, and the words became part of Japanese culture in their own way. For insiders, these terms are completely natural. For outsiders, they can feel like “bad English,” but in reality they’re a fascinating example of how languages evolve and adapt.

For English speakers in the apparel business, it’s a reminder that even your own language can surprise you abroad. What seems obvious may not be obvious at all in another context. And if you’re sourcing garments from Japan—or working with staff trained on Japanese instructions—being aware of these subtle differences can make communication smoother, prevent mix-ups, and even bring some humor into the process.

What about you? Have you ever run into funny translation moments when talking about fashion across cultures?