T-shirt sizes, how to get it right

Short answer: Measure the chest width and length of a T-shirt you like and compare them with the size guide. Shoulder width is the one thing you cannot adjust afterwards, so let it guide your choice.

Measure a T-shirt you own

Lay your best T-shirt flat on a table and smooth it out. Measure the chest from seam to seam just below the sleeves, and the length from the neck to the bottom hem. Those two numbers tell you more than the size letter, because brands cut differently. With them in hand, choosing from men's bestsellers becomes easy.

Shoulders cannot be altered

A T-shirt can be shortened and taken in, but shoulder width cannot be changed without ruining the cut. If the shoulder seam sits far out on the upper arm, the whole T-shirt looks too big, however the rest fits. If it sits inside the shoulder, it pulls when you lift your arms. Choose by the shoulders, also in bamboo sweatwear.

Between two sizes

If your measurements fall between two sizes, the choice depends on how you want it to sit. For a clean fit close to the body, take the smaller one. For a loose, relaxed drape, take the larger. You can find both in the men's range, which has close and loose styles.

Length decides the look

A T-shirt that ends just above the hip bone can be worn both untucked and tucked in. If it is shorter, it rides up when you lift your arms or sit down. If it is longer, it looks best tucked in or with a relaxed style. So also measure where your favourite T-shirt ends on your body.

Sleeves say a lot about size

Short sleeves should end around mid upper arm and sit lightly without pulling. If they hang towards the elbow, the T-shirt is usually one size too big. If they pull around the arm, it may be too small, or the cut is narrower than you are used to. The sleeve is a quick check the first time you try it on.

The fabric gives a little

Knitted fabric, which most T-shirts are made from, gives a little as you wear it. A T-shirt that feels slightly close the first time often sits better after an hour. That only applies to width, though. If it is too short or too narrow across the shoulders, wearing it will not help.

Think about washing when you choose

Most T-shirts shrink slightly in the first wash, especially if washed hot or tumble dried. Wash at no more than 40 degrees and let them air dry to keep the size stable. This matters most with a close fit, because even a little shrinkage can be felt. Always follow the care label.

Check the fit when it arrives

Try the T-shirt on straight away, before washing it, and look at shoulders, length and sleeves in a mirror. Lift your arms and sit down to see whether it rides up. If it fits wrong, it is easiest to exchange while it is still unworn. You will also know which size to choose next time.

Frequently asked questions

Do bamboo T-shirts shrink

A little in the first wash at 40 degrees. Do not wash hotter if the fit is close, and let them air dry instead of using a tumble dryer.

What if the sleeves are too long

Then the size is usually too big. Sleeve length follows size, so try one size down if the shoulders also sit too far out.

Are women's and men's sizes the same

No. The cut differs across chest and hips even when the measurements look similar, so always use the size guide for the specific style.