T-Shirt Size Guide: How to Find Your Unisex Tee Size in 2 Minutes
The fastest way to get a t-shirt size right online is to measure a shirt you already love. Here's how to do it in 2 minutes, plus how unisex sizing works.
By SkyMade Design · · 5 min read
The most reliable way to pick a t-shirt size online is to measure a shirt you already own and love, then compare those numbers to the brand's size chart. Size labels like M or L vary between brands, but inches don't. This t-shirt size guide shows you how to measure in 2 minutes, how unisex sizing works, and how a t-shirt should fit.
How to measure a t-shirt you already own
You need the shirt, a flat surface and a tape measure or ruler.
- Lay the shirt flat and smooth out the wrinkles. Don't stretch it.
- Measure chest width: straight across, from armpit seam to armpit seam, about 1 inch below the armpits. Double it to get the full chest measurement. Some charts list the flat width, others list the full chest, so check which one yours uses.
- Measure length: from the highest point of the shoulder, next to the collar, straight down to the bottom hem.
- Optional, sleeve length: from the shoulder seam to the end of the sleeve.
Now compare. The size whose chest and length are closest to your favourite shirt is the one to order. If you fall between 2 sizes, pick based on the fit you want: size down for a closer fit, up for a relaxed one.
How to measure your body instead
If you don't have a shirt to measure, measure your chest: wrap the tape around the fullest part, under the arms, keeping it level and snug but not tight. Then compare to the chart's body chest measurement. Remember a t-shirt's garment measurement should be a few inches bigger than your body measurement, which is the ease that makes it comfortable.
T-shirt size guide: how unisex sizing works
Most graphic tees, including printed-to-order ones, are sold in unisex sizes. Unisex tees are cut from a traditional men's pattern: straighter through the body, wider in the shoulders, longer in the sleeve than women's fitted tees.
Converting women's sizes to unisex
As a rough rule, many women wear 1 size down in a unisex tee compared to their usual women's size for a similar fit. For a relaxed, borrowed-from-the-boyfriend look, go with your usual size. The chart is always the better guide than the rule, so measure.
Retail fit vs classic fit
- Retail fit (sometimes called modern fit) is slimmer through the body and sleeves, usually in a lighter fabric.
- Classic fit is boxier and roomier, often in heavier cotton.
Our Slow Mornings Better Days tee is a retail-fit, lightweight ring-spun cotton tee, available in S to 3XL. Every product page on our shop has its own size chart, because the blank shirt varies by product, so always check the chart for the specific shirt.
How should a t-shirt fit?
- Shoulders: the shoulder seam should sit at the edge of your shoulder bone. Drooping well past it means the shirt's too big, unless you want an oversized look.
- Chest: you should be able to pinch 1 to 2 inches of fabric at the chest. Pulling tight across the chest means it's too small.
- Length: the hem should land around the middle of your fly or hip, covering the waistband when you raise your arms.
- Sleeves: end around mid-bicep for a classic look.
For sport
If you'll play in it, pickleball or anything else, go for a fit that lets you reach overhead without the hem riding up. Many people prefer a slightly relaxed fit for active wear. More on that in our guide to funny pickleball shirts.
Will a cotton t-shirt shrink?
100% cotton can shrink a little, mainly in hot washes and high-heat dryers. Many tees are pre-shrunk, but it's still smart to wash cold and dry on low. If you're between sizes and you're a hot-dryer household, size up. Our guide on how to wash graphic tees covers the rest.
Why getting the size right matters more for printed-to-order shirts
Each printed-to-order shirt is made for one person, so it can't be put back on a shelf and resold. That's why most print-on-demand shops, including ours, can't refund a wrong size you ordered. If we send the wrong item or size, or the print is faulty, we'll replace or refund it. Details are on our returns page, and there's more on how the process works in what print on demand means.
Two minutes with a tape measure saves a lot of disappointment.
Buying a t-shirt as a gift?
Check a shirt they wear often: look at the size label, and if you can, measure it while they're out. If you can't, go 1 size up for a relaxed fit; a slightly big tee still gets worn, a tight one usually doesn't. For gift ideas, see our pickleball gifts for players.
FAQ
How do I know my t-shirt size?
Measure a t-shirt that fits you well: chest width from armpit to armpit, and length from the shoulder to the hem. Match those numbers to the brand's size chart.
Do unisex shirts run big?
For women, usually yes. Unisex tees are cut from a men's pattern, so many women wear 1 size down from their usual women's size. For men, unisex sizes typically match regular sizing.
Should a t-shirt be tight or loose?
A classic fit leaves 1 to 2 inches of room at the chest, with the shoulder seams on the edge of your shoulders. Tighter or looser is a style choice, but a shirt that pulls across the chest is too small.
Do cotton t-shirts shrink?
They can shrink slightly in hot water and hot dryers. Washing cold and drying on low keeps shrinkage to a minimum.
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