Shirt Size Calculator

Shopping for shirts can be confusing when brands use different sizing systems. Whether you're buying shirts online from international retailers or trying to understand the difference between US, EU, UK, and Asian sizes, our comprehensive shirt size calculator and guide will help you find the perfect fit.

Why Shirt Sizes Vary Between Countries and Brands

Shirt sizing isn't standardized globally for several reasons:

• Regional body types: Sizing systems developed to accommodate the average body proportions in different regions
• Brand-specific fit models: Each brand creates their patterns based on their target customer
• Vanity sizing: Some brands label clothes larger than their actual measurements to make customers feel better
• Historical development: Different sizing systems evolved independently before global commerce became common

Major Shirt Sizing Systems Explained

US Sizing

American shirt sizing typically uses:

• Letter sizes (S, M, L, XL, etc.) for casual shirts and t-shirts
• Neck and sleeve measurements for dress shirts (e.g., 15/32-33, meaning 15-inch neck and 32-33 inch sleeve)
• Numeric collar sizes (14, 15, 16, etc.) for formal shirts

European (EU) Sizing

European sizing generally uses:

• Numeric chest measurements in centimeters (e.g., 38, 40, 42)
• Some brands also use standard international letter sizing
• Italian and French brands might use their own numbering systems

UK Sizing

British sizing is similar to US sizing but with some differences:

• Collar sizes for dress shirts are often the same as US (14, 15, 16, etc.)
• Letter sizing (S, M, L) is common for casual shirts
• UK chest sizes are typically 2 inches less than EU sizes

Asian Sizing

Asian sizing tends to run smaller than Western sizing:

• Japanese (JP) sizes are typically 1-2 sizes smaller than US sizes
• Chinese and Korean sizes often follow similar patterns
• Many Asian brands now offer "International" sizing to accommodate global customers

How to Measure Yourself for the Perfect Shirt Fit

For accurate shirt sizing, you'll need a flexible measuring tape and ideally, a friend to help. Here's how to take the key measurements:

Neck Measurement

Place the measuring tape around the base of your neck, where your collar would sit. Add about ½ inch (1.25 cm) for comfort. This measurement is crucial for dress shirts.

Chest Measurement

Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and breathe normally during measurement.

Sleeve Length

Measure from the middle of the back of your neck, across your shoulder, and down to your wrist. For dress shirts, this measurement is typically combined with the neck size.

Shoulder Width

Measure from the end of one shoulder to the other, across your back. The end of the shoulder is where the horizontal shoulder meets the vertical arm.

Understanding Different Shirt Fits

Even with the correct size, the fit style can dramatically change how a shirt looks on you:

• Regular/Standard Fit: Traditional cut with room in the chest, waist, and sleeves for comfort and movement
• Slim/Tailored Fit: Narrower through the chest and waist for a more contoured look
• Relaxed/Comfort Fit: Extra room throughout for maximum comfort and freedom of movement
• Athletic/Muscle Fit: Broader in the shoulders and chest with a tapered waist for athletic builds

Brand-Specific Sizing Quirks

When shopping across different brands, keep these tendencies in mind:

• European luxury brands (Hugo Boss, Zara) tend to run slimmer than American brands
• American heritage brands (Ralph Lauren, Brooks Brothers) often have a more generous cut
• Athletic brands (Nike, Adidas) typically design for active movement with more room in shoulders and chest
• Fast fashion brands (H&M, Uniqlo) may vary season to season and collection to collection

Tips for Online Shirt Shopping

When you can't try before you buy, follow these guidelines:

• Always check the brand's specific size chart rather than relying on generic size conversions
• Read customer reviews for insights on whether the shirt runs true to size, small, or large
• Know your exact measurements and compare them to the product's size guide
• Consider ordering multiple sizes if you're between sizes or trying a new brand
• Look for retailers with good return policies until you're confident in your size with that brand

Finding the right shirt size shouldn't be a guessing game. With our shirt size calculator and this comprehensive guide, you can shop confidently across brands and international markets, knowing exactly which size will give you the perfect fit.