Casablanca Size Guide: Does It Run Large or Small?
Does Casablanca run large? Yes, on most T-shirts — and it is intentional. But the answer changes depending on whether you are talking about an L'Arche T-shirt, a model labelled 'Oversized', a sweatshirt or a silk shirt. Here is how to choose, category by category, with the sizes we have on the shelves.
One system, an Italian cut
Casablanca uses letter sizes (XS to XXL) across all its ready-to-wear, with no numerical chart to convert. But the pieces are designed and made in Italy with a deliberately 'relaxed' cut: dropped shoulders, a broad frame, a generous length. A Casablanca M is roomier than an M from most French brands.
Printed T-shirts (L'Arche, Tennis Landscape, Courticon, Dance Joy)
These are the best-selling pieces and the easiest to size: the cut is straight and slightly roomy. If you usually wear an M and want a clean drape, take an S. If you like the volume of streetwear T-shirts, stay with an M. The jersey is heavy and does not stretch: what you try on is what you will keep. We stock these models from S to XL.
'Oversized' models: whatever you do, do not size up
When the product name contains 'Oversized' (Glitch Orchid, for example), the cut is already very wide in your size: sleeves that fall below the elbow, mid-thigh length. Take your usual size, or even one size down. An oversized XL on someone who wears an L becomes a tunic.
Sweatshirts and jumpers
The Croquis de Tennis sweatshirt and the cotton jumper follow the same relaxed logic as the T-shirts, with a rather long sleeve length. Take your usual size for a relaxed fit. If you are torn between two sizes on a cotton jumper, choose the smaller one: the knit is thick and the collar holds its shape better.
Silk shirts
The printed shirts are cut loose, with an open collar, to be worn open over a T-shirt or buttoned up with volume. Your usual size gives the intended effect. Going down a size tightens the shoulders and breaks up the placement print: it is not recommended on these pieces.
Women: Casablanca is unisex in practice
The brand offers womenswear lines, but a large share of female customers buy the T-shirts and sweatshirts from the men's line for the volume. In that case, count two sizes below your usual equivalent men's size: a woman who wears an M will generally take an XS or an S in an L'Arche T-shirt.
Buying pre-owned
On a pre-owned Casablanca piece, check that the size label is properly woven and consistent with the composition label, then ask for the flat measurements (chest width, back length): the relaxed cut makes stated sizes unreliable from one season to the next. And check authenticity before size — our guide to recognising genuine Casablanca details the checkpoints.
In summary
- Printed T-shirts: one size down for a clean drape, usual size for volume
- 'Oversized' models: usual size or one down, never up
- Sweatshirts and jumpers: usual size, the smaller one if in doubt
- Silk shirts: usual size, do not size down
- Women buying from the men's line: two sizes down
All the models mentioned are in our Casablanca collection, from S to XL depending on the colourway. To understand where L'Arche and the tennis theme come from, read the history and codes of Casablanca.
