When it comes to shopping for shirts, whether online or in-store, one of the most common struggles people face is choosing the right size. The truth is, shirt sizing can vary widely between brands, and the confusion around fit can lead to frustration, unnecessary returns, and wasted money. If you’ve ever ordered a shirt that didn’t fit properly, you know just how disappointing it can be.
But don’t worry by understanding the common shirt sizing mistakes and learning how to avoid them, you’ll be able to make more informed decisions and find the perfect fit every time. We’ll explore the most frequent sizing mistakes and provide practical tips on how to avoid them.
The Shirt Sizes
Before diving into common mistakes, let’s quickly go over how shirts are generally sized. While every brand has its own system, most shirts follow a fairly standard set of measurements that correspond to the chest, neck, and sleeve lengths.
- Small, Medium, Large (S, M, L): These are the most common sizing labels used in casual shirts and t-shirts. However, the measurements for each size can differ across brands, making it difficult to determine your ideal fit without trying the shirt on.
- Numeric Sizes (14, 15, 16, etc.): Often seen in dress shirts, this sizing typically refers to the neck measurement in inches. For example, a size 15 shirt corresponds to a 15-inch neck measurement.
- Slim Fit, Regular Fit, and Loose Fit: These fit types refer to the cut of the shirt, not the actual size. A slim fit shirt is more tailored and narrow, while a regular fit provides more room through the body, and a loose fit is the most relaxed style.
Common Shirt Sizing Mistakes
Now that we understand the basics of shirt sizing, let’s take a look at the most common mistakes people make when choosing shirts and how to avoid them.
1. Failing to Take Accurate Measurements
One of the most common sizing mistakes is not measuring yourself accurately. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, using your general knowledge of your size may not always be enough. Sizing inconsistencies between brands and styles mean that relying solely on your past shirt sizes can lead to a poor fit.
How to Avoid It: To avoid this mistake, take a few simple measurements at home:
- Chest Measurement: Wrap a measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape level across your back and under your armpits.
- Neck Measurement: Place the tape around the base of your neck, allowing enough room for a finger to slide between the tape and your skin.
- Sleeve Length: Measure from the center of the back of your neck (at the spine) to the wrist. You can also bend your arm slightly to get a more accurate measurement.
- Shoulder Width: Measure across your back from the tip of one shoulder to the other.
By having these measurements on hand, you’ll be able to cross-check the size charts of various brands and make a more informed decision.
2. Ignoring the Fit Type
Many shoppers get fixated on finding the correct numerical size, but they forget to consider the fit type of the shirt. A slim-fit shirt, for instance, will have a more narrow cut than a regular-fit shirt, even if both are the same size. Ignoring the fit type can lead to discomfort, especially if you order a shirt that’s too tight or too loose for your body type.
How to Avoid It: Pay close attention to the fit description when shopping for shirts. If you prefer a more relaxed, comfortable fit, go for a regular or loose fit. If you like a more tailored, sharp look, opt for slim-fit shirts. Keep in mind that even if the shirt is labeled as your size, the fit type plays a significant role in how it will feel once worn.
3. Not Considering Fabric and Stretch
When selecting a shirt, many shoppers overlook the type of fabric the shirt is made from, which can significantly affect how a shirt fits. For example, shirts made from non-stretch fabrics, like 100% cotton, may feel stiff and restrictive, especially if the shirt is slightly smaller than your body measurements. On the other hand, shirts with a bit of spandex or elastane can offer more flexibility and comfort.
How to Avoid It: Consider the fabric composition when buying a shirt. If you prefer a shirt that moves with you, opt for fabrics with a bit of stretch. Fabrics like cotton blends, performance fabrics, or materials with a small percentage of spandex or elastane provide a better fit for people who are on the move.
4. Overlooking the Shrinkage Factor
Many cotton shirts, especially 100% cotton ones, tend to shrink after a few washes. If you buy a shirt that fits you perfectly in the store or when it arrives, it might shrink a size or two after washing. This can be especially noticeable with dress shirts or other form-fitting styles.
How to Avoid It: Look for labels that indicate the shirt has been pre-shrunk, which means it’s been treated to minimize shrinkage. If that’s not the case, consider buying shirts a size up to accommodate potential shrinkage. Also, always follow the care instructions carefully washing in cold water and air-drying can help prevent unwanted shrinkage.
5. Not Considering Sleeve Length
Sleeve length is another critical aspect of shirt sizing that’s often overlooked. A shirt that fits perfectly in the chest and shoulders might still feel off if the sleeves are too long or too short. This is particularly important for dress shirts and button-down shirts, where sleeve length plays a big role in achieving a polished look.
How to Avoid It: Measure your sleeve length from the center of your back (the base of your neck) to the wrist bone. If you have longer or shorter arms than average, you may need to consider custom-made shirts or look for brands that offer extended sleeve lengths. Many stores offer “extra-long” or “short” sizing, which can be helpful if you have an atypical body type.
6. Buying Shirts Based on Current Weight, Not Ideal Weight
Another common mistake is buying shirts based on your current body weight, rather than your ideal weight or how you prefer to wear the shirt. This can lead to tight or loose shirts that aren’t flattering in the long run.
How to Avoid It: If you plan on losing weight or if you prefer a looser fit, you may want to buy a slightly larger size. Conversely, if you’re in the process of gaining muscle, a slim-fit shirt may suit your physique better. It’s all about balance — make sure to choose a shirt that fits comfortably in your present state but leaves some room for changes over time.
7. Choosing Style Over Comfort
Finally, many shoppers are tempted by the latest trends and end up purchasing shirts based on style rather than fit and comfort. It’s easy to fall into the trap of buying shirts because they look good on the hanger, but a shirt that isn’t comfortable won’t be worn often.
How to Avoid It: It’s essential to prioritize comfort alongside style. While it’s fun to experiment with trendy designs, choose shirts that you feel confident wearing and that fit well across your body. Whether it’s the neckline, the shoulders, or the sleeves, ensure that the shirt is comfortable enough for everyday wear.
7 Frequently Asked Questions About Shirt Sizing
- How do I know if a shirt is too tight or too loose?
A shirt is too tight if you feel restricted in movement or notice puckering around the chest, shoulders, or waist. It’s too loose if it hangs off your body without any structure, or if the sleeves and collar don’t fit snugly. - What’s the best way to measure sleeve length?
Measure from the center of your back, where your neck meets your shoulders, and down to your wrist. It’s important to bend your arm slightly to get an accurate measurement. - Is it better to size up or size down when in doubt?
It’s typically better to size up, especially if you’re between sizes. You can always have a shirt altered to fit better, but it’s much harder to make a shirt smaller. - Do all shirt brands fit the same way?
No, sizing varies between brands. Even if you know your size in one brand, you should always check the size chart for the specific brand you’re purchasing from. - Should I buy a shirt based on my chest measurement or my waist measurement?
While your chest measurement is usually more important for shirt sizing, it’s essential to ensure the shirt fits comfortably around your waist too, especially for slim or tailored fits. - How do I prevent a cotton shirt from shrinking?
To prevent shrinkage, wash cotton shirts in cold water and air dry them, as high heat from the dryer can cause cotton to shrink. - Can I alter a shirt if it doesn’t fit perfectly?
Yes, many shirts can be altered by a tailor to fit better in key areas like the shoulders, waist, or sleeves.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shirt size is more than just about numbers on a tag. By understanding your measurements, considering the fabric and fit, and being mindful of common mistakes, you can ensure that your next shirt fits perfectly, no matter the brand or style. Pay attention to details like sleeve length, fabric type, and fit description, and you’ll avoid the frustration of wearing a shirt that’s too tight, too loose, or uncomfortable. Happy shopping!
