The perfect fit: shirts
Collar fit
Correct
Correct fit
A simple and clear rule — not too tight, not too loose. A well-fitting collar should never be too tight. For a perfect fit, you should be able to comfortably slide a finger between the collar and neck.
Too narrow
Too large
Too narrow
The collar will be uncomfortable and tense.
Too large
The collar will look messy and will not match the tie elegantly.
Body fit
Correct
Correct fit
The perfect fit will allow you to move freely without losing its tailored aesthetic. It will be comfortable, but with a well-defined silhouette and a smooth, clean placket, without tension in the buttons.
Too small
Too big
Too small
The shirt will not be comfortable and will limit your freedom of movement.
Too large
The shirt loses all its shape and will not be comfortable under a jacket.
Shoulder fit
Correct
Correct fit
The shoulder fits well when the seam falls naturally along the edge of the shoulder. A size too small will cause the seam to fall across the top of the shoulder, while a size too large will cause it to fall down the arm.
Too small
Too big
Too small
The sleeve will be high on the shoulder, limiting your movement.
Too large
The shoulder seam will drop down the arm for a warped, oversized look.
Hem length
Correct
Correct fit
Formal shirts should be long enough to cover most of your butt and crotch, easy to tuck in and stay in well. Casual shirts should reach just above the pocket, for a more relaxed appeal.
Too short
Too long
Too short
The shirt will not be comfortable, will limit freedom of movement and will be difficult to wear inside trousers.
Too long
The shirt will have excess fabric, which will accumulate in the trousers.
Perfect length for casual shirts
Correct
If you want to dress casually, you'd prefer to be able to wear it untucked. So, choose a shorter shirt, with a hem that isn't high along the sides for a more relaxed overall appeal.
Sleeve length
Correct
Correct fit
A perfect length sleeve will have the cuff falling where the thumb meets the wrist. The ideal fit should be snug enough to fit a finger comfortably.
Too short
Too long
Too short
It will show too much wrist and won't be seen if worn with a jacket.
Too long
It will cover your hand too much and look messy and untailored.
Sleeve fit
Correct
Correct fit
Your upper arm should feel snug, with enough room to allow you to move comfortably and avoid excessive tension near the elbow. Your forearm should feel comfortable, not tight, and should not pull away from your arm when you bend your elbow.
Too small
Too big
Too small
It will create uncomfortable tension when you bend your arm.
Too large
It will look puffy and will not fit comfortably when worn with a jacket.
