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How to Measure a Men’s Shirt Accurately – A Complete Guide

Whether you’re shopping online, tailoring a custom shirt, or selling second-hand clothes, knowing how to measure a men’s shirt accurately is essential. The right measurements ensure a perfect fit, better comfort, and a smarter look. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step shirt measurement process—perfect for beginners and pros alike!
Why Accurate Shirt Measurements Matter?
A well-fitted shirt is the foundation of a stylish outfit. Too tight or too loose, and it throws off your entire look. With accurate measurements, you’ll:
- Choose the right size while shopping online
- Avoid unnecessary returns and size mismatches
- Help tailors or clothing brands deliver a better fit
- Look sharper and feel more confident
Tools You’ll Need
Before you start, gather:
- A measuring tape (flexible one)
- A flat surface (like a table or bed)
- A well-fitting shirt for reference (optional)
- Pen and paper (or phone) to note the numbers
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Measure a Men’s Shirt
Here’s how to take accurate shirt measurements easily:
1. Neck Size
How to measure: Wrap the measuring tape around the base of your neck, where your shirt collar would sit.
Tip: Add half an inch for comfort.
✅ Example: 15.5 inches
2. Shoulder Width
How to measure: Lay a shirt flat. Measure from the edge of one shoulder seam to the other.
✅ Example: 18 inches
3. Chest/Bust
How to measure: Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits. Keep it horizontal.
✅ Example: 40 inches
4. Waist
How to measure: Measure around your natural waistline—just above your belly button.
✅ Example: 34 inches
5. Sleeve Length
How to measure: Start from the edge of the shoulder (where the seam meets the sleeve) down to the wrist. Keep the arm slightly bent for accuracy.
✅ Example: 25 inches
6. Shirt Length
How to measure: Start at the top of the back collar (center) and measure down to the bottom hem.
✅ Example: 29 inches
7. Armhole
How to measure: Place the tape around the top of your shoulder and under the armpit in a circular loop.
✅ Example: 18 inches
8. Cuff
How to measure: Measure around your wrist where the shirt cuff would close.
✅ Example: 8 inches
Measuring a Shirt You Already Own
If you have a well-fitting shirt, lay it flat and follow the same steps above. It’s one of the easiest ways to get precise measurements for online shopping or custom tailoring.
Final Tips for Perfect Fit
- Always measure twice to ensure accuracy
- Don’t pull the tape too tight or leave it too loose
- Use inches, as most sizing charts are in inches
- Save your measurements for future reference
Summary Chart for Quick Reference on Measuring a Shirt
Measurement Area | How to Measure | Ideal Tip |
---|---|---|
Neck | Around the base of the neck | Add 0.5 inch for comfort |
Shoulder | Seam to seam on a flat shirt | Keep shirt flat |
Chest | Around the fullest part of chest | Tape parallel to ground |
Waist | Around your natural waistline | Don’t suck in! |
Sleeve | Shoulder to wrist | Slightly bend elbow |
Shirt Length | Collar to hem (back side) | Measure straight down |
Armhole | Shoulder to armpit in a circle | Ensure a full loop |
Cuff | Around the wrist | Slight slack for watch space |
Planning to Order from Goodfit?
At GoodFit Store, we recommend following these steps before ordering. We provide custom-sized men’s shirts that match your measurements for a superior fit. If you ever need help, our support team is ready to assist you with size suggestions.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to measure a men’s shirt is a skill that pays off whether you’re shopping or tailoring. A few minutes of effort can save you a lot of hassle. For the best premium shirts in Bangladesh, trust GoodFitBD—where comfort meets perfect size.