Dress shirts are one of the most common and significant elements in menswear. They serve as a focal point for the rest of your clothing and also play a vital part in framing your physical look and adding to your personal comfort.
As a result, you must pick a collared shirt that suits your unique style, bone structure, and wardrobe. However, there are a surprising amount of style options for men’s shirts.
But first one must know the measurements:
Ideal shirt measurements
Collar
Typically measured in inches (usually 14-18″), you should be able to comfortably put on the collar buttons (topmost button) with at least a 2 finger gap in between. Anything less or more than that is usually considered too tight or too loose. The collar’s form and shape are also significant; most importantly, find a collar that complements your facial structure.
Sleeves
Take a measurement from your shoulder’s end at the top of your arm to the centre back of your neck (where your spine is). To determine where you would like your shirt cuff to sit, measure from your shoulder to a point just past your wrist bone. When measuring, always bend the elbow just a little to make things easier. The natural position of your arm is bent, therefore if you don’t do this, your sleeves will be too short. Round the total up to the nearest sleeve length after adding the two measurements.
Most people’s arms have slightly different lengths. Both sleeves should be measured twice and the longer of the two should be noted. If your sleeve length falls between two available shirt sizes, always choose the larger of the two. As it is simpler to deal with too much cloth than not enough.
Chest
Begin by putting a measuring tape over your whole chest and behind. Typically, the tape measure will go across the top of your nipples and shoulder blades. To ensure an accurate measurement, keep the tape level parallel to the ground. It’s a good idea to pin the starting of the tape between your arm and side as you level it and wrap it around yourself.
Waist
Regardless of the specifications, think of your waist as the level at which you would feel most comfortable wearing trousers. If in doubt, take a torso measurement about an inch below your belly button. Keeping the tape close to the axis with respect to horizontal ground. Place one finger between your body and the measuring tape while standing comfortably to get the most accurate waist measurement.
Different Shirt Fit Types for Men
Extra slim fit
You might have already tried one of slim-fit dress shirts but weren’t satisfied with how they fit. The Extra Slim Fit usually is 2′′ smaller at the waist and 3′′ narrower across the chest as compared to normal slim fit. In comparison to Regular Fit, Extra Slim Fit is 8′′ thinner at the waist and 7′′ narrower in the chest. Additionally, it has a body that is 1 3/8′′ shorter than Regular and Slim Fit.
Slim fit
The name of the shirt fit accurately describes a narrow fit shirt. These shirts have a middle and waist cut that helps them match your body physique. However, there is greater space around the chest and shoulders because this is a mass-produced item. This causes bagginess around the arms and waist on an athletic, V-Taper figure. The fundamental problem is that a slim-fit shirt’s non-stretchable fabric leaves just two options: either it will be a little too tight or a little loose; there is no in-between.
To put it briefly, this shirt is designed specifically for a thin, skinny, slim, or lean figure. A slim-fit shirt’s additional cost for tailoring is another issue, especially if you want it to fit well.
For thinner trousers, the slim fit often has a high arm. With the help of slim fit shirts, you can appear more toned and sharp by having your chest and shoulders narrowed.
Modern fit
Although the modern fit gives a slim profile, there is enough excess fabric to minimize the look from becoming too tight. For instance, a modern fit suit jacket will have fitting shoulders and a very snug chest area while yet allowing for easy arm movement. This fit is described as lying barely off your skin by certain stylists.
This tailored, but not overly tight, shape has the advantage of giving you an on-trend appearance while also providing a comfortable fit you can wear all day at the workplace.
Regular fit
The physical structure of the body is not taken into account in this style fit. Any body shape may wear the regular fit, but you must be aware that if you don’t choose the appropriate regular fit clothing as one might risk looking baggy and giving the wrong impression. On the other hand, everyone may feel comfortable because to the dress’s ease and flexibility. Although it doesn’t always have a fashionable appearance, the normal fit gives you a comfortable and timeless appearance. The main problem with the regular fit is that it has additional length, and when you attempt to tuck it in, it bunches up more at the waist, making you start sweating more and leaving you itchy skin.
Therefore, when wearing clothing that fits you comfortably, be sure to trim off any additional length that is unnecessary. Beyond the added length, the regular fit is the best option on the formal occasions.
Athletic fit
A shirt with an athletic fit has a tighter fit. It is comprised of a flexible material that provides for freedom of movement. This elastic material clings to your upper body while giving it some breathing room. These shirts, however, can be a little too tight for persons with a muscular build. As with the slim fit shirt, the problem with athletic or muscular fit shirts is that they are cut the same lengt for the arms, which causes discomfort. Large arms and athletic builds shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort for fit.
This shirt fit is typically more of a show off for people with muscular physiques.