Did you know that eCommerce sales rose by over 30% in a year? The global pandemic played a part but there’s also the fact that shopping online is more convenient. You can shop at any time and from anywhere.
However, shopping for clothes still has one major obstacle: you can’t try on something like a shirt before paying for it.
Fortunately, you can avoid getting the wrong clothes even when shopping online. It’s all about understanding what to look for when checking t-shirt size charts.
Not sure where to begin or what to look for? Don’t fret, we’ve prepared an in-depth t-shirt size guide below to walk you through it. Continue reading to learn more:
T-Shirt Sizes Explained
When it comes to t-shirt sizes, the first thing you’ll notice is that there are different charts for adults and kids. This is also separate from the size chart for young infants.
Shirt sizes for kids start at 2T and can go up to 5T or 6T. 2T is for children aged 2 years old and above. 3T is for 3-year old kids. This continues up to 6T, which is for 6-year old kids.
Of course, this doesn’t automatically mean a 4-year old should only wear 4T clothes. You still need to consider the child’s size and comfort.
For adults, charts often start at extra-small (XS) and can go up to extra-large (XL). Clothing brands that design for bigger people can include shirts that go to XXXL or bigger.
Different T-Shirt Sizing
Does t-shirt sizing change from country to country?
Yes, this can happen. An extra-large (XL) shirt in Indonesia might be a medium in the US or UK. Manufacturers and retailers alter the sizing labels depending on the target consumers.
Sizing can also differ depending on the type of shirt or the gender it’s for.
XL t-shirts for women will have a different measurement chart compared to XL shirts for men. Skater shirts might seem large or too long for most people but will appear normal for people looking for those kinds of shirts. On the opposite end, a crop-top shirt might seem too small or tight but is, in fact, the right size.
T-Shirt Size Tips
Now you know the different obstacles and conditions when looking at t-shirt sizes. However, it’s not as simple as buying a shirt that you think will fit you. It’s better to first identify what kind of shirts to wear and what your average size is.
The easiest step is to take a bunch of your t-shirts and check the sizes on the tags. You should also get a measuring tape and list down the following:
- length of the shirt
- length of the sleeves (short and long-sleeve)
- shoulder to shoulder length
- width (chest and abdomen area)
Not sure if the t-shirts you have are the right fit? Here’s a look at the different sizing tips to follow:
Length of the Shirt
For standard shirts, the bottom of your shirt should sit between your belt line and your thighs. The standard is to keep the shirt down to 2 inches below your belt line.
How do you know if the t-shirt you have is the right length? Put it on and raise your arms. The shirt will lift but it shouldn’t expose your belly.
If you tuck the shirt in, lift your arms. The shirt will go up a bit, loosening up the shirt a bit and allowing your waist to breathe. However, the shirt won’t completely tuck out.
The shirt is too small if it untucks. It’s too big if you can still pull more than a few inches out.
Tightness
How tight should a t-shirt be? This mostly depends on your body type. For most people, who exhibit a mesomorph shape, the shirt should follow the contours of your body.
People with an endomorph body will want something more comfortable for their size. However, going with a large t-shirt will make them appear even larger. It’s also sloppy to look at too.
Instead, it’s better to adjust the tightness according to their BMI (body mass index) and still follow the other rules when it comes to shirt sizing. This means the shirt should still be of the right length.
For ectomorphs, slimmer shirts are the order of the day. However, don’t go for skin-tight shirts. These will only accentuate the body’s thin form.
Collar Tightness
What about shirts with collars? How tight should the collar be?
Button the collar up. Try to insert two fingers and tug. The collar should be a bit tight but loose enough for those fingers to wriggle.
If you can perform this, the collar is either too tight or too loose. Of course, this is an indication that the t-shirt itself is the wrong size.
There’s also a possibility that it’s the right shirt size but the collar won’t fit right because of your neck’s size. If this is the case, you may need to get the shirt tailor-fitted.
Shoulder Measurements
One good way to know if the shirt is the right size is to check the shoulder seams.
The seams should end right at the tip of your shoulder. If they end before it, the shirt is too small. If the seams go over your shoulder, the t-shirt is a little too big.
However, you might find a shirt with the right length at the shoulder seams but is too long or too wide for your body shape. This is a situation where you might need to tinker with the shirt. You’ll need to bring the shirt to a tailor and have it adjusted.
Wrist Tightness
Looking for long-sleeve t-shirts? Check the cuffs. They could be too tight or too loose.
If the cuffs have buttons, tighten these. Insert your index finger and check if you can wriggle it. If you can’t, the sleeves are too tight.
The Shape of the Shirt
You’ll want a t-shirt that feels a little tight but it shouldn’t be too tight to the point it clings to your skin. Even a fit person who regularly goes to the gym will look a bit off with skin-tight clothing. The human body has odd contours and everyone has different body quirks, after all.
Exceptions to These Rules
Are there exceptions to this rule? There are, especially for shirts specifically meant to be big or to expose your belly. Skater shirts and crop tops are good examples of clothing that intentionally break the norm.
You may also find t-shirts designed to hug your body. These are often intended for use at the gym or when out biking. These t-shirts will help you sweat but stay comfortable while working out.
Extra T-Shirt Size Tips
Knowing your size and which measurements to look for is only the first step. The second step is to be a smarter online shopper. Fortunately, we’ve got the tips you need below:
Look for a T-Shirt Size Chart
Shopping from a renowned retailer, like JasperHollandCo.com? Before you complete a transaction, check the t-shirt’s product page. There should be a size chart for you to go over.
Review the chart. Check the measurements and check which ones match the ones you need. Look specifically for the measurements for the shoulders, chest, and shirt length.
Don’t rely on one chart from one retailer for all your online t-shirt purchases. Remember that an XL for one seller might be medium or large for another.
This can even apply to the same retailer. The measurements they have for crop top shirts might be different compared to the ones used for traditional shirts or button-up shirts.
Check Reviews
You can trust online reviews. Most people do because of the fact these don’t come from the seller or manufacturer. Reviews can tell you all about the quality of the t-shirts you like and whether or not they follow the size chart listed by the retailer.
More importantly, look for reviews with photos or videos. These will give you a better idea about how the t-shirt looks when worn by someone.
If possible, prioritize the ones that feature the shirt size you want to try out. You’ll be able to check if the shirt size you want looks good for someone of your size and shape. You’ll be able to gauge whether to stick with that size or to go one size smaller or one size bigger.
Get the Right Shirt Today
Now you know what to consider when buying a t-shirt! There are a lot of factors to consider when looking for the perfect t-shirt size but these tips will guarantee the right fit. Read reviews, look at photos, check the size chart, and know the measurements that work for you.
Did you like this guide and want more like it? We’ve got you covered. Don’t hesitate to go over more of our posts today for lists covering fashion, advertising, and fitness!
