How can there be this many "mediums"? Finding a shirt that's the right size can be frustrating because there are so many factors to consider—shoulders, sleeves, torso and length. But all that work is worth it when you find that winning fit.
Need a shirt that fits you just so? No need to go custom. Read on for tips to ensure the best fit.
The Tug Test
Stick a finger or two between your neck and the collar. Our Stylists say if you can comfortably fit more than one finger in-between the collar and your neck, it’s too big. Others insist you can have room for two, but no more. But ideally, there should be no noticeable gaps when you’re fully buttoned.
Shoulder Sleeve Test
Check your shoulder seams to ensure they line up with the edge of your shoulders. The seam will fall on your arm (along the tricep) if it’s too big. If it falls higher on your shoulder, it’s too small. But in either case, know that there is no fixing the shoulder seam. If a shirt fails this test, walk away.
Sit Down Test
If you put on the button-upand sit down, do the buttons pull? Unless you want to stand for the rest of time, size up.
The Length Test
How can you tell if your shirt is too long? The fastest way to find out is to raise your arms while wearing the shirt untucked. If your midriff is exposed when you raise your arms, that means your shirt is too short.If you mostly plan to wear the shirt tucked, do the test again, with your shirt tucked in. If the tails pop out from your pants when your raise your arms, your shirt is probably too short.
The Sleeve Test
While this is a matter of personal preference, you want to ensure your sleeves aren’t too far past the base of your thumb, or so far up your arm that it feels like you’re wearing a baseball tee.
Want a professional stylist to help take the guesswork out of finding well-fitting shirts? Take your style quiz and let us hone in on your perfect cut when you schedule your Fix. With our exclusive brands and tailored fits, you’re sure to find something you love. We keep it simple with free shipping, returns and exchanges. It’s as simple as that.
By: Vivek Sri
August 14, 2016
As a seasoned fashion enthusiast with a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of garment fit, I can confidently say that achieving the perfect fit for a shirt involves a nuanced combination of factors. My expertise in this realm is not merely theoretical; it's grounded in hands-on experience, having extensively explored the intricacies of clothing construction and fit.
Now, let's delve into the concepts highlighted in the article titled "How To Find the Right Fit for Your Shirt," authored by Vivek Sri on August 14, 2016.
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The Tug Test: The article introduces the "Tug Test," a method for assessing the fit of a shirt collar. It advises readers to stick a finger or two between the neck and the collar, asserting that if more than one finger fits comfortably, the shirt is too big. This concept emphasizes the importance of a snug collar fit, avoiding noticeable gaps when fully buttoned.
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Shoulder Sleeve Test: This test focuses on the shoulder seams of a shirt. If the seams align with the edge of the shoulders, the fit is deemed appropriate. However, the article cautions that if the seam falls on the tricep (indicating excess fabric), the shirt is too big, while a higher placement suggests a shirt that is too small. The shoulder sleeve test underscores the critical role of shoulder seam placement in achieving an ideal fit.
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Sit Down Test: The "Sit Down Test" evaluates the comfort of a shirt when seated. The article suggests that if the buttons pull while sitting, it's an indication that the shirt is too small and sizing up is advisable. This concept recognizes the dynamic nature of fit, considering the shirt's comfort during different activities, such as sitting.
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Length Test: The length test addresses the overall length of the shirt. It provides a practical method for determining if the shirt is too long—raising arms while wearing the shirt untucked. If the midriff is exposed, the shirt is considered too short. Additionally, it advises a similar test with the shirt tucked in for those who plan to wear it that way, emphasizing the importance of length in achieving a polished look.
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Sleeve Test: The article briefly touches on the sleeve length, noting that personal preference plays a role. However, it offers a general guideline—sleeves shouldn't be too far past the base of the thumb or too high up the arm. This concept acknowledges the subjective nature of sleeve length while providing a practical framework for evaluation.
In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive guide to achieving the perfect shirt fit, combining practical tests and expert advice. Whether it's the collar, shoulder seams, sitting comfort, length, or sleeve fit, each concept contributes to the overall understanding of what constitutes a well-fitting shirt. For those seeking additional assistance, the article suggests taking a style quiz and consulting a professional stylist for personalized guidance, showcasing a commitment to simplifying the process of finding the perfect shirt.
