The work set of Japanese temples
Zen monks sweep, garden and cook in a samue. Potters, carpenters and gardeners across Japan adopted it for the same reason, and many people now change into one at home the way others reach for a tracksuit. It moves. The top crosses left over right and ties at the side, and the trousers are loose with a drawstring waist.
Three samue sets, three cloths
The Cross-Tie Samue Set is the classic one. It is 95% cotton with three-quarter sleeves and cropped drawstring trousers, in white, blue, black or grey, $59.90. Sizes run XS to XXL, with a chest of 111 cm on XS and 136 cm on XXL.
The Wrap-Front Samue Set is cut for colder days. Its top fastens with a toggle and its balloon trousers are lined. It is 80% polyester and 20% cotton, one size, with a 130 cm chest and a drawstring waist from 58 to 120 cm. The top, the trousers or the full set.
The Seigaiha Cotton Gauze Samue Set is the lounge version. Soft double-layer gauze, printed with overlapping waves, $34.90.
Choosing a size
Samue are cut loose. The cotton set runs large, so take your usual size or one down if you are between sizes. The gauze set is sized by height, and the lined set is one size. Wash cold and hang to dry.
Samue, jinbei and work trousers
A jinbei is the summer cousin, a short tied top with shorts. For the trousers on their own, see Japanese work pants, and the rest of the family is in Japanese workwear. Other shops and their prices are compared in our samue buying guide.
Measurements come from the manufacturer's flat size table for each garment, converted to centimetres and mapped onto one size ladder. Available for 3 of the 3 garments here, last checked 2026-10-15. How we measure.
Samue at a glance
| Piece | Fabric | Fit | Sizes | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men's Cross-Tie Samue Set | 95% cotton, 5% other fibres | Loose | XS–XXL | £47.00 |
| Men's Wrap-Front Samue Set | 80% polyester, 20% cotton | Relaxed | One Size | £31.00–£70.00 |
| Men's Seigaiha Cotton Gauze Samue Set | Cotton gauze | XS–S | £27.00 |
Read the guide: Where to Buy a Samue in 2026: Work, Lounge and Gift Sets
Frequently asked questions
What is a samue?
The work set of Japanese Zen monks: a top that crosses left over right and ties at the side, with loose drawstring trousers. Craftsmen wear it too, and it is now popular as loungewear.
What is the difference between a samue and a jinbei?
A samue has long or three-quarter sleeves and full-length trousers, made for work. A jinbei is a summer set with short sleeves and shorts.
What are these samue made of?
The cross-tie set is 95% cotton, the gauze set is double-layer cotton gauze, and the wrap-front set is 80% polyester and 20% cotton with lined trousers.
What size samue should I get?
Samue are cut loose. The cotton set runs large, so take your usual size or one down. The gauze set is sized by height and the wrap-front set is one size.