Q&A for How to Measure Your Shirt Size

Your chest and waist measurements are much more important to your size. Take those and then look up the sizing chart for wherever you plan to buy from.

Taking basic measurements isn't too difficult and it can help you choose a shirt that fits you perfectly. Stand up and get yourself a tape measure. Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your chest. Keep your body relaxed and don't puff your chest out. Then, measure the narrowest part of your waist. Some shirts, especially women's shirts, need hip measurements so it fits well over your form. Simply wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your waist, including the buttocks. If you are buying a man's dress shirt, you may need to take additional measurements for the collar and sleeve. Once you've got your measurements, use them to help choose a shirt that fits you well.

Most dress shirts have 2 measurements that are necessary for a solid fit. You need your neck size and your sleeve length. However, there are additional measurements you can take to have a shirt that's tailor-made for you. By measuring your chest and back length you can choose a shirt that doesn't look baggy or over-sized on you. Measure the largest part of your hips to choose a shirt that tapers and conforms to your body. Make sure you relax and don't puff out your chest or flex your muscles when you get your measurements so they're accurate.

You can actually use a dress shirt that fits you well to find your measurements. Go through your closet, find a dress shirt, and try it on to ensure that it still fits you well. Take it off once you are done. Find a flat surface, such as a table or hardwood floor. Spread the shirt out on that surface, then smooth out any wrinkles. Make sure that all of the buttons on the shirt are closed, including the collar and cuffs. Find the seams where the sleeves attach to the shirt. Place a measuring tape across the shirt just below these seams. Make sure that the end is aligned with the left side seam, then measure across to the right side seam. Then, find where your waist would be on the shirt, then measure across it, from the left side seam to the right side seam. Flip the shirt over and smooth out any wrinkles. Place the measuring tape at the bottom edge of the collar, right where it connects to the shirt. Pull the measuring tape straight down towards the bottom edge of the hem to find your back length measurement. To get your sleeve measurement, place the end of the measuring tape at the shoulder seam where the sleeve starts. Pull the tape towards the bottom edge of the cuff and take your measurement. Finally, take your collar measurement by opening up the collar, and spreading it flat. Place the measuring tape against the stitch holding the button to the fabric. Pull the tape across the collar towards the buttonhole. Record the measurement at the center of the button hole.