Going to the store to buy a shirt, many men have questions about what to look for and how to choose the right size. It is easy to get confused among all the variety, so we have prepared a checklist (checklist) of important points when choosing a shirt.
Print the article or download a PDF file to know how to buy a dress shirt and not get confused before buying.
Step 1. Determine your shirt size.
If you already know your clothing size, you can skip this step. If not, then most shirts can be chosen knowing only 2 sizes: neck coverage and sleeve length. You can find out these dimensions in the following way:
____ M easure your neck circumference with a piece of string or string, then attach to a ruler. The neck circumference should be measured exactly where the shirt collar will pass + add 1-2 centimeters so that the collar does not press on the neck.
Write down the size of the collar here: ______________ cm.
____ Measure your sleeve length. To do this, take a larger thread or rope and attach it to the outside of your hand from shoulder to wrist. It is difficult to do it yourself, so ask someone to help you. It should be remembered that the sleeves should protrude slightly from under the sleeves of the suit, so consider this point.
Write down the sleeve length here: ______________ cm.
Shirts size table
| International sizes | Collar size | Clothing size |
| S | 37-38 | 42/43 |
| M | 39-40 | 44/46 |
| L | 41-42 | 48/50 |
| XL | 43-44 | 52/54 |
| XXL | 45-46 | 56/58 |
If you want the shirt to be made to order, you will have to trust the tailor, who will additionally take off the size of the waist, chest, shoulder width, height, as well as the diameter of the wrist.
Step 2. Choose a shirt style.
____ Fabric type:
- Oxford is a common type of fabric. Very light and allows the body to breathe. Summer shirts are often made from this type of fabric. Quite sturdy type of fabric and does not require maintenance.
- Pinpoint or Royal Oxford – a kind of Oxford fabric; the difference is in the density of the thread – it is less, so the fabric is even lighter than Oxford. Has a smooth surface. A bit more expensive than Oxford.
- Poplin is a smooth, durable fabric that is formed by the classic weave of threads.
- Herringbone – herringbone textured fabric. Looks good on colored shirts.
- Dobby is a simplified version of jacquard fabric. The interlacing of the threads forms a diamond-shaped pattern. The type of fabric is very wear-resistant and durable, in addition, shirts made of such fabric practically do not wrinkle. A great option for those who don't like ironing their shirts.
In addition to these types of fabric, there are many more varieties, so do not hesitate to ask the seller questions about what else they have on sale. Don't be afraid to experiment with your fabric type.
___ Variety of landing:
- Classic silhouette (Classic Fit) – not suitable for tall and / or thin men. Good for overweight men. Comfortable to wear, but not very stylish.
- Semi-fitting silhouette (Slim Fit) – great for thin men, but will not fit overweight, it will be cramped. Nice mix of style / convenience.
- Super Slim Fit – For skinny men only. Stylish, but should be well-fitting.
- The fitted silhouette (The Modern / Regular Fit) is a great option for daily use. Suitable for men of normal build.
___ Collar type:
- Classic, with corners down – most shirts are sewn with this collar. Pay attention to the width of the corners and their sharpness.
- A button-down collar is great for smart casual style, but not suitable for a formal dress code.
- A pin collar is a rather rare but very sophisticated type of collar.
- Button collar – also called 'mandarin'. The collar is made in the form of a stand, without corners or other elements, except for the button.
- Collar 'butterfly' – a special collar for a bow tie.
____ Type of cuff:
- The Italian cuff – the most common type, is fastened with one button.
- French cuff – fastened with a cufflink.
____ Choosing a color / pattern:
- Solid white is a classic option for a formal dress code.
- A white shirt with pinstripe stripes is less formal, but still suits a business dress code.
- Dark colors – suitable for normal working hours.
- Bright colors or unusual patterns – exclusively casual or smart casual style.
Knowing all of the above characteristics, you can confidently ask the seller in the store, like this: 'Do you have a plain blue Oxford shirt with an Italian cuff, size 39/40?'. The main thing is that the seller knows his product, and does not make round eyes.
Step 3. Choose a place to buy a shirt.
____ Shop variety.
- Hypermarket – a wide variety of brands for every taste and cost, you will have to spend a lot of time if you do not know which brand suits you best.
- Men's clothing stores are a great option if you need a wider selection and more professional sellers.
- Store of a separate brand – if you know that this or that brand suits you better than the others, then it is better to go to the brand store.
- Internet – the best prices, but you need to know your exact size, which shape suits you best.
Step 4. Go to the store.
____ Choose a store where we buy shirts (see Step 3).
____ Decide on the style, color, fit of the shirt (see Step 2).
____ We measure the shirt and see if it fits you in size (see Step 1).
With the information that we have reviewed, you should not have any problems with the question of how to buy a dress shirt.
Find the store / clothing brand that best suits your shape and pocket. Do not be afraid to ask the seller questions, because if you choose the wrong size or style, you will not be able to feel confident in your new shirt.
We wish you a happy shopping!
