Men’s T-Shirt T-Size Chart: How to Choose M, L, XL, XXL Size in Numbers?


By Neha Agarwal

A perfect t-shirt never goes out of style, and a good fit makes all the difference. Whether it is casual wear, athleisure or formal gear, it is essential to find the right fit and to know how to measure a t-shirt correctly. Sizing can be challenging and confusing for most wearers. To make things simpler, we have listed below men’s size charts, a how-to-measure t-shirt guide, and pointers on finding the ideal fit for your body type.

Indian Men’s Tee Shirt Chart 

Here are the basic T-shirt sizes for men you should know about before making a purchase. 

S Size in Number T-Shirts

For slender or slim-built people, a small (S) size T-shirt is appropriate. This is the size suggested for men with a chest measurement of 40.4”, front length 27.5” and across shoulder 16.7”

M Size in Number T-Shirts

Medium (M) is the most common size in India for T-shirts. This is suitable for men with chest measurements of 42.4”, a front length of 28”, and across the shoulder of 17.5”. For someone with a slightly smaller size but wanting a loose, comfortable fit, medium size is ideal. 

L Size in Number T-Shirts

The large size in number is appropriate for men with chest measurements of 44.4”, front length 28.5”, and shoulder 18.2”. It would also be suitable for people looking for a relaxed fit. 

XL Size in Number T-Shirts

Larger sizes, like XL size in number, are suited for men with chest measurements of 46.4”, front length 29”, and shoulders 19”. It can even work well for men who prefer a loose and comfortable fit. Hence, XL size means a bigger size. However, 44 size means an XL or XXL size T-shirt. One would have to try it out, as variations can be there from brand to brand. 

XXL Size in Number T-Shirts

Double XL or XXL size number t-shirts are suitable for chest measurement 48.4”, length 29.5”, shoulder 19.7”. It is best to measure key areas with a tape measure first to ascertain your size. 

Size

Chest (in)

Front Length (in)

Across Shoulder (in)

S

38

24

16

M

40

26

17

L

42

28

18

XL

44

28.5

18

XXL

45

30

18

 

How To Measure Your T-Shirt

Knowing how to measure your T-shirt accurately is more important than finding the right style. As T-shirts are a basic requirement of any wardrobe, it is helpful to know the main points for measurement and the right method to do so. To ease this complicated task, the guidelines for measuring the body's main areas to get the right fit are listed below. 

  • Neck to shoulder: Take the tape measure and measure from the midpoint of the neck to the end of the shoulder. 
  • Sleeve length: Measure from the shoulder seam down to the desired length of the sleeve.
  • Shoulder to Shoulder: Measure the length from one shoulder to the other.
  • Chest: By placing the tape close under the arms, measure the fullest part of the chest. You should ensure that the tape is flat at the back.
  • Waist: You should first find the narrowest part of the waist. Take the measurement around that area. This is your natural waistline. It should not be too tight or too loose.
  • Hip: You can check this by placing the tape around the fullest part of the hips, ensuring the tape is straight across. 

How To Choose the Ideal Fit T-Shirt for Men 

A T-shirt is a near-classic piece. It can be worn anytime and found in every wardrobe. Considering it is a necessity, it is important to understand how it needs to fit. Often, the T-shirt size might be correct, but it may fit a bit loose or tight. Hence, one should know the ideal size.  

Size/Tightness:

A good fit should not be too tight or too loose. It should fit well and be comfortable for the wearer. Too tight, and it will appear odd and be uncomfortable. If it is too loose, it will take away the x-factor of the look, no matter how good the t-shirt is. Hence, one should go by the size measurements and then choose the right size. 

Shoulder Seams:

Often, you may see people wearing T-shirts that appear to slide over the shoulder seams. That is an indicator of a wrong fit. The garment should sit comfortably across the shoulder seams. In fact, this is the first measurement that should be taken for a t-shirt.

Sleeves:

The sleeves should go down the upper arm comfortably. Also, the sleeves should appear proportionate to the body. In the case of really tall people, the sleeves may have to be longer and vice versa.  

Length:

The T-shirt should be long enough to cover your hips properly. Otherwise, it will appear odd and distinctly short. 

Shape:

The fabric of the T-shirt should be of good quality. Poor-quality fabrics will tend to hang and get out of shape after being worn a few times. A higher count fabric and good quality yarn will ensure the garment sits well on the wearer. Hence, invest in good brands that offer superior quality.

How to Select the Right T-shirt for Your Body Shape

What’s your body shape? Rectangle, triangle, inverted triangle, oval, or trapezoid? You might wonder what this is all about! Well, it's helpful to know your body type and dress to flatter the shape. Here are a few styling hacks to choose from as per your body shape.

Rectangle

Usually tall and well-built, men with this body type have an almost equal width of shoulders and waist. Men with this shape should opt for well-fitted t-shirts or even slightly broader at the shoulder. 

Triangle

In this body shape, the shoulders' width tends to be smaller than the waist and the hips. This is also a mature body shape. You can opt for comfortably fitted T-shirts or slightly loose T-shirts. Pair with straight-leg denim jeans. A styling trick is to avoid horizontal stripes or any super large prints.

Inverted Triangle

This body shape is the opposite of the triangle body shape. In this body type, the shoulders are wider than the waist. This is commonly found in men who work out regularly and are more muscular. Men with this shape should try for slim-fit t-shirts but not too snug. Styles that are fitted on the upper area and tapered at the waist also work well to flatter the shape. 

Oval

Men with this body shape are usually slightly shorter and have a rounder look. The shoulder and the chest are of a similar width compared to the rest of the body. Therefore, it is necessary to add elements that help to lengthen the torso. One should not wear t-shirts that are too tight in the middle, or even t-shirts that tend to be too loose or tight. Vertical stripes and v-neck t-shirts work well. Alternatively, wearing a solid color for the top and bottom can also give the illusion of length.

Trapezoid

This body type is quite similar to the inverted triangle, where the shoulders are wider than the waist. Men should opt for a more tailored look for this shape. A black fitted T-shirt can also work well. If the person is on the short side, he should go for vertical stripes. On the other hand, taller men with this body shape should try out horizontal stripes or even bright, solid colors. Trapezoid-shaped men can easily carry off most patterns except those too loose or tight.  

Mistakes to Avoid When Sizing T-shirts

Common mistakes that people often make while buying t-shirts are explained here. Do read through. 

Refer to The Brand’s Size Chart 

Though sizing is universal, each brand may vary slightly in the measurements. It is ideal to look at the brand’s t-shirt size chart and then purchase the t-shirt. An XL size in several brands may be an XXL size for another brand. 

No Guesses!

Often, in a hurry, one tends to choose a style/ size that is based on pure guesswork. Similar brands may not have the same size chart. Check your size, consider the brand’s size chart, and then make your choice. 

Check the Wash Care Label

It is prudent to glance at the care label provided on the t-shirt. This helps to understand if any shrinkage is expected. Or the particular washing instructions. This is especially true of high-end brands. One does not want to machine wash a t-shirt with a ‘dry clean only’ label and end up with a washed-out garment.  

Conclusion 

Choosing the right size for t-shirts doesn't have to be a daunting task. One should consider one’s own measurements and compare them against the t-shirt size chart provided to ascertain the right size. Additionally, considering your body shape and choosing styles that flatter your physique is crucial for a polished look.

For a range of attractive t-shirts in various sizes, check out Slowave! We meticulously create each product to fit different sizes, personalities, and shapes. Whether you're looking for Crew Neck T-shirts or Polo T-shirts, our collection is designed to provide both comfort and style.

FAQs

1. How do I choose my T-shirt size?

You should measure the key areas, such as the chest, neck, shoulders, etc., with a measuring tape and determine the size.  

2. How do I know my t-shirt size online?

Each brand provides its size chart online. Refer to that while buying your size t-shirt.

3. What is the equivalent of XXL size number in India?

You would need to refer to the company’s t shirt size chart on the website or in-store and see the measurements given. Sizes can vary between brands. Slowave’s XXL size measurements are: chest 48.4”, front length 29.5”, across shoulder 19.7”.

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