Translation guide
The English verb "wear" covers clothing, accessories, and even facial expressions. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is worn and where on the body. This guide organizes the most common and useful ways to express "wear" in natural Japanese.
Express wearing shirts, jackets, dresses, coats, etc.
The most common verb for wearing items on the upper body or full-body garments like dresses and coats.
I'm wearing a blue shirt today.
She was wearing a red dress.
Express wearing pants, skirts, shorts, etc.
Used for garments that you step into, such as pants, skirts, and shorts.
He is wearing jeans.
May I try on that skirt?
Express wearing shoes, socks, slippers, etc.
Also used for footwear, including shoes, boots, sandals, and socks.
Let's go out wearing the new shoes.
I wear slippers at home.
Express wearing hats, caps, wigs, etc.
Used for items placed on the head, like hats, caps, and helmets.
Please wear a hat outside.
He always wears a beanie.
Express wearing glasses, sunglasses, etc.
Used for glasses and sunglasses. Often used in the progressive form かけている.
She wears glasses.
A man wearing sunglasses was standing there.
Express wearing necklaces, earrings, watches, belts, etc.
General verb for attaching or putting on accessories. Also used for makeup and perfume.
I'm wearing earrings today.
He always wears a wristwatch.
Common for smaller accessories like necklaces, earrings, and rings. Often interchangeable with つける.
I'm wearing a necklace.
She is wearing a wedding ring.
Express wearing a smile, frown, etc.
These three verbs are the most common for clothing. Remember: 着る (upper body/full body), 履く (lower body/feet), かぶる (head). Using the wrong one sounds unnatural.
wear a shirt, wear pants, wear a hat
English 'wear' is broad, but Japanese requires the correct verb. Saying 靴を着る is incorrect; use 履く.
To describe what someone is currently wearing, use the ている form: 着ている, 履いている, かぶっている, etc.
What are you wearing to the party?
She always wears black.