From the outside, Stussy appears rather basic. Put on a hoodie, check out, and be there. But there are some oddities with sizing, releases, and authenticity that can cause a speedy buy to fall through the cracks, and you won't know until the package arrives.

You don't need to deal with the hassle later if you take a few minutes before purchase to check out the brand and product if you are not familiar with it or if you are looking for a particular item you cannot easily return.

Sizes are different from what you would expect

Not all of the categories have a standard fit with Stussy. Stussy T-shirts and hoodies may run slightly bigger than a regular size, and pants and shorts may fit somewhat to size.

One of the best things about using a specific size guide is that it doesn't involve a lot of guessing when it comes to the exact item, you are going by one that has been made specifically for that item. A medium hoodie and a medium tee won't necessarily fit the same way.

Not all stores sell items throughout the year

Some Stussy locations, such as those in Tokyo, London, and New York, don't sell the same stuff. A chapter in the book that is printed or available online may not be available in another region and may be sold out or delayed in that region.

Unless you are shopping internationally or comparing prices from region to region, find out if the item is the same listing in the other areas before you take for granted that it is.

Comme des Garçons Cardigan popularity

For those who want the CDG aesthetic with a bit more refinement than a hoodie offers, the comme des garcons cardigan is worth a look. Cut with the brand's signature attention to silhouette and detailing, it works as effortlessly over a plain tee as it does layered with a button-down, making it one of the more adaptable pieces in the Comme des Garçons lineup. It's an easy way to bring a touch of Rei Kawakubo's design philosophy into everyday outfits without committing to anything too avant-garde.

The limited drop is a pressing one, selling out quickly

Some releases, particularly collaborations, go quickly after going live. Popular sizes can sell out in minutes and not all items may be restocked.

The release time before the scheduled time and being prepared to move quickly for a specific item could make a big difference. Waiting till the day after launch is likely to leave you with the leftovers.

Fraudulent items are so common a phenomenon that they are worth keeping an eye out for

Due to the nature of streetwear, Stussy's logo is one of the most replicated logos there is, and counterfeit listings can be spotted elsewhere on resale sites and marketplaces all the time. Both purchasing from Stussy's official website and from an authorized retailer are the most secure methods to prevent this issue altogether.

For second-hand, the quality of the stitching, the position of the tag and the reputation of the seller will help to identify most obvious fakes before you pay.

Not all retailers or areas have the same return policies.

Stussy's own return policy is not always equivalent to that of the third party retailer/marketplace. Limited releases and collaborations may have more specific return requirements than regular releases.

If you read the specific return terms for the place you're purchasing from, and not assume that they are the same everywhere, then you will be able to avoid an unpleasant surprise if the item doesn't fit or if it arrives looking different than you expect.

Resale value doesn't always equate to what goods really are worth

Even if a piece is being resold for a high price, that doesn't necessarily mean that this is a fair price for the demand. Some market their listings with inflated price tags hoping that the buyer will not look at other properties in the area before making an offer.

Before paying a premium, compare a few of the recent sold listings, not the current asking price.

FAQs

Is Stussy true to size?

This depends on the category. T-shirts and hoodies are generally looser than they might appear, and pants and shorts fit more closely to the standard sizes.

So, is it safe to purchase Stussy from resale sites?

It may be, but it is not uncommon to find counterfeits. Reviewing seller reputation, stitches and the location of tags lowers the risk.

Why is there a piece that is sold out everywhere?

Many of the limited releases and collaborations sell out within minutes of being released and some of them do not get restocked for those who have bought them.

Are all Stussy shops stocked with the same products?

Availability can differ depending on region, as for example, the inventory at No. Chapter stores may not be the same.

Will I be able to return my Stussy purchase?

Not necessarily on the same conditions. Refunds are subject to return policies that vary from Stussy's site, authorized retailers and limited and sale products.