FAQs
What does 5C5V mean?
5C5V stands for Five Cities, Five Virtues. The brand is built around five iconic Japanese cities — Sapporo, Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Yokohama — each paired with a Japanese virtue expressed through minimalist design and kanji embroidery. Every piece carries meaning beyond its aesthetic.
Where is 5C5V based?
5C5V is a UK-based brand, registered in England and Wales (Company Number: 16789464). Our designs draw inspiration from Japanese culture, minimalism, and the philosophy of the five cities. We ship worldwide.
What are the five cities and five virtues?
Each city in the 5C5V collection is paired with a defining virtue from Japanese philosophy:
Sapporo — 希 (Hope)
Tokyo — 夢 (Dream)
Osaka — 力 (Strength)
Kyoto — 和 (Harmony)
Yokohama — 信 (Trust)
Each virtue is expressed through kanji embroidery or print on the corresponding city’s garments.
Is 5C5V a sustainable brand?
Yes. All our clothing is produced on a print-on-demand basis — we only make what is ordered. This eliminates overstock and reduces waste compared to traditional fashion production. We use organic cotton wherever possible and work with ethically certified production partners.
How long does delivery take?
Because every 5C5V product is made to order, there is a production period before your item ships. Estimated delivery windows are:
UK: 3-5 business days (production + delivery)
Europe: 3-5 business days
Rest of World: 5-7 business days
You will receive a tracking notification once your order has been dispatched from our production partner.
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes — free UK delivery is available on all orders over £100. Standard shipping applies to orders below this threshold. International shipping rates are calculated at checkout based on your destination.
Can I track my order?
Yes. Once your order has been produced and dispatched, you will receive an email with a tracking number. If you haven’t received tracking information within 10 business days of placing your order, please contact us via our Contact page.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship worldwide. International customers outside the UK and EU may be subject to customs duties or import taxes on arrival in their country. These charges are the responsibility of the customer and are not included in our prices or shipping fees.
What is your return policy?
We accept returns within 30 days of delivery. Items must be unworn, unwashed, and in their original condition with all tags attached. To start a return, please contact us via our Contact page with your order number.
Can I exchange for a different size?
Yes, we offer size exchanges within 30 days of delivery, subject to availability. As items are made to order, some sizes may require an additional production period. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need a size exchange.
What if my order arrives damaged or incorrect?
If your order arrives damaged, defective, or incorrect, please contact us within 7 days of delivery with your order number and a photograph of the issue. We will arrange a replacement or full refund at no cost to you.
How do I find my size?
Each product page includes a Size Guide. We recommend measuring your chest and body length and comparing to the size chart before ordering. Our hoodies and t-shirts are designed with a relaxed fit — if you prefer a closer fit, size down. If you are between sizes, size up. Our shoes run true to UK sizing; women typically size down 1.5 sizes from their standard UK women’s shoe size
Are your products unisex?
Yes. All 5C5V garments — t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, and beanies — are designed as unisex pieces. Our shoes are also suitable for all genders.
What materials are used in your clothing?
Our t-shirts and hoodies are made from 100% organic cotton. Specific fabric compositions are listed in the Details & Care section of each individual product page. If you need confirmation of a specific material for allergy or ethical reasons, please contact us before ordering.
Are the kanji on your products embroidered or printed?
This varies by product. Our beanie and hoodie ranges feature embroidered kanji detailing. Our t-shirt range uses high-quality direct-to-garment (DTG) printing or screen printing depending on the design. Each product page specifies whether the kanji is embroidered or printed.
Can I buy 5C5V products through ChatGPT?
Yes — 5C5V is available through Shopify’s ChatGPT shopping channel. You can browse and purchase our products directly within ChatGPT. Simply search for 5C5V or ask for Japanese minimalist streetwear.
Is it safe to purchase through an AI shopping agent?
Yes. Any purchase made through ChatGPT’s shopping channel is processed securely through Shopify’s checkout system — the same system used when buying directly from our website. Your payment details are never stored by 5C5V or shared beyond what is required to fulfil your order.