When it comes to formal shirts, finding the right fit is crucial. A well-fitting shirt looks chic and comfortable, making it easier to tuck it in and look sharp all day long. However, many men struggle to find the correct shirt size, especially when shopping online for formal shirting. To help you get the right fit every time, this guide will walk you through the steps to measure your shirt size yourself right from how to measure shirt size, how to tuck in the shirt, and even the different types of suits for men.
How to measure shirt size
There are four key measurements that you need to take when measuring your shirt size for formal shirting: neck, chest, waist, and sleeves. Here's how to measure each one:
Neck: To measure your neck, wrap a measuring tape around the base of your neck, where the collar of your shirt would sit. Make sure that the tape is snug but not too tight, and round up to the nearest half-inch.
Chest: To measure your chest, wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, making sure that the tape is level and straight. Again, make sure that the tape is snug but not too tight, and round up to the nearest half-inch.
Waist: To measure your waist, wrap the measuring tape around the narrowest part of your waist, which is typically just above your navel. Make sure that the tape is snug but not too tight, and round up to the nearest half-inch.
Sleeves: To measure your sleeves, stand with your arms at your sides and have someone measure from the centre back of your neck, over your shoulder, and down to your wrist. This measurement should include your shoulder, arm, and wrist. Round up to the nearest half-inch.
How to measure shirt size in India
Confused about how to measure shirt size in India? The process of measuring your shirt size for formal shirting in India is similar to the process described above. However, it's important to note that shirt sizes in India are typically labelled in inches, so make sure to take your measurements in inches rather than centimetres. Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that Indian sizes may run slightly smaller than sizes in other countries, so it may be helpful to try on shirts in a local store before making a purchase online.
How to measure shirt length for formal shirts
The length of your shirt is an important factor to consider when choosing the right size. Knowing how to measure a shirt's length is important to ensure that the shirt doesn't crop up after tucking in. To measure, start at the base of your neck and measure down to your waistline. This measurement should be taken while wearing a shirt that fits you well so that you can get a sense of the ideal length for your body type.
How to keep your shirt tucked in
Once you have found the right size, it's important to know how to keep your shirt tucked in throughout the day. There are a few key tips to help you achieve a neat appearance:
Choose the right type of suit: When choosing a suit, it's important to select a style that is designed to stay tucked in. A suit with a higher waistline and a shorter jacket can help to keep your shirt tucked in more easily.
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Tuck in your shirt correctly: When tucking in your shirt, make sure to tuck it in fully and smooth out any wrinkles or bulges. It's also important to tuck in the sides of your shirt, as this will help to keep it in place throughout the day.
Use shirt stays: Shirt stays are a simple and effective way to keep your shirt tucked in. These elastic straps attach to your shirt and your socks, helping to keep your shirt in place and prevent the shirt from slipping out.
Types of formal shirts men can wear
When it comes to formal shirts, there are several different styles to choose from, each with its unique look and fit. Here are some of the most common types of formal shirts for men:
Oxford cloth button-down (OCBD): This classic shirt style is made from heavy cotton fabric and features a button-down collar. It is often seen as a staple of the preppy folk, or an Ivy League look, and is well-suited for both casual and dressy occasions.
Dress shirt: A dress shirt is a formal shirt that is typically made from a lighter fabric, such as cotton or a cotton blend, and is to be worn with a suit or dress pants. Dress shirts have a more fitted cut and come in varied colours and patterns.
Button-front shirt: A button-front shirt is a type of dress shirt that features a series of buttons down the front, rather than a pullover style. Button-front shirts can be found in a range of styles, from casual to formal, and are a versatile choice for any dressy occasion.
French cuff shirt: A French cuff shirt is a type of dress shirt that features long cuffs that fold back and fasten with cufflinks. This type of shirt is typically more formal and is usually worn with a suit or tuxedo.
Spread collar shirt: A spread collar shirt features a wider gap between the collar points, which creates a more open and relaxed look. This type of shirt is well-suited for both casual and dressy occasions and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
Wingtip collar shirt: A wingtip collar shirt is a type of formal shirt that features a distinctive ‘winged’ collar that points up and out. This type of shirt is typically worn with a tuxedo or formal suit and is a classic choice for black-tie events.
Pinpoint oxford shirt: A pinpoint Oxford shirt is a type of formal shirt that is made from lightweight cotton fabric and features a button-down collar. This type of shirt is well-suited for both casual and dressy occasions and is a versatile choice for any man's wardrobe.
No matter what type of formal shirt you choose, it's important to select a style that fits you well and is comfortable to wear. You can take styling tips from Settle Subtle too. But with the range of styles, colours, and patterns to choose from when it comes to shirts, you also need to ensure you have a few that pair well with the different types of suits in your wardrobe.