Getting the right fit shouldn't feel like a guessing game. Whether you're shopping for crew necks, v-necks, or henleys, knowing your measurements makes all the difference between clothes you love and clothes that sit unworn.
Why Proper Fit Matters
When a shirt fits well, you feel comfortable and confident. When it doesn't, you'll avoid wearing it no matter how much you paid. Getting your measurements right the first time helps you build a wardrobe you'll actually use and lets you shop online with the same confidence you'd have trying things on in person. A men’s T-shirt size guide can help you understand silhouettes better and choose clothes that complement your body.
How to Take Your Measurements at Home
You only need a soft measuring tape and five minutes. If you don't have a measuring tape, use a piece of string and measure it against a ruler.
- Chest: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits. Keep it parallel to the ground and snug but not tight.
- Shoulders: Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the other across your back, starting where your shoulder slopes toward your arm.
- Sleeve length: Bend your arm slightly and measure from the center of your neck, across your shoulder, down to your wrist.
- Torso length: Measure from where your shoulder meets your neck straight down to where you want your shirt to end (typically mid-fly).
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline, just above your belly button.
Take measurements while wearing a thin shirt, and have someone help with shoulder and back measurements when possible.
Understanding Different T-Shirt Fits
Not all t-shirts are cut the same way, even in the same size. Here's how the main fit styles differ.
Classic fit runs straight through the chest and waist for comfort without bagginess. Most Epic Fits crew necks follow this cut.
Slim fit follows your body's contours more closely. A large slim fit may feel like a medium in classic fit.
Regular fit sits between classic and slim, offering a balanced silhouette for most body types.
Relaxed fit provides extra room through the chest, shoulders, and length for a laid-back look.
When comparing measurements to a size chart, prioritize shoulder fit first since it's the hardest to alter.
How Each Style Should Fit
Different shirt styles have different fit expectations. Here's what to look for in the most common styles.
Crew Necks
The neckline should sit comfortably against your collarbone with room for two fingers between neck and collar. Shoulder seams should hit right at the edge of your shoulder. The body should skim your torso without bunching, and length should fall around mid-fly.
If you're deciding between necklines, our guide on crew neck vs. v-neck styling can help you choose.
V-Necks
The V should end between your collarbone and mid-chest. Too high looks like a notched crew neck; too low becomes distracting. V-necks work especially well under blazers. For layering tips, check out how to style a blazer with a t-shirt.
Henleys
Henleys fit like crew necks but with a button placket that should lie flat without pulling. They typically run slightly longer, with hems falling near the bottom of your fly.
What to Do When You're Between Sizes
If your chest says medium but your shoulders say large, go with the larger size. Shoulder fit matters most because it affects how everything else drapes, and you can't add fabric that isn't there.
Consider fabric weight, too. Heavier fabrics have less give and should fit closer to your measurements. Stretchy fabrics are more forgiving.
Epic Fits offers sizes S to 3XL, designed with flattering silhouettes for all body types. The Pack Builder lets you try different sizes without committing to one size across your whole order.
Common Fit Mistakes to Avoid
Even with accurate measurements, these common errors can throw off your fit.
Ignoring fabric type: Cotton fits differently than cotton-blend with stretch.
Forgetting shrinkage: Most cotton shrinks slightly after washing. Consider sizing up if the fit is already snug.
Only checking chest: Shoulders, length, and sleeves matter just as much.
Buying aspirational instead of practical: Choose fits that match how you actually dress.
With accurate measurements and an understanding of how styles should fit, you can shop confidently for crew necks, V-necks, or Henleys. For outfit ideas, explore our guides on date night outfits and smart casual looks.
Stay Epic.
Check out Epic Fits' crew neck collection and find the bundle that fits your style.
FAQs
Q. How often should I re-measure myself?
At least once a year, or anytime you notice body changes from weight fluctuations or fitness routines.
Q. Should I size up or down if I'm between sizes?
Size up if your shoulders feel tight. Shoulder fit is hardest to alter and should be prioritized.
Q. Can I use the same measurements for all brands?
Measurements help, but sizing varies between brands. Always check the specific size chart before buying.
Q. What if my measurements don't match the chart perfectly?
Prioritize shoulders and chest for t-shirts, then choose the larger size for comfort.
Q. How do I know if a shirt is too tight?
If you can't raise your arms comfortably or see stress lines when moving, it's too tight.
Q. How do I measure a shirt that already fits well?
Lay it flat, smooth out wrinkles, then measure shoulder seam to shoulder seam and armpit to armpit.