T-Shirt Size Chart: How to Measure a Tee and Find Your Size Online
Buying a T-shirt online should be easy. Then it shows up and either fits like a tent or like a sausage casing. The fix takes about two minutes and a tape measure. This guide explains how to read a T-shirt size chart, how to measure a shirt you already own and how different fits change the size you should order.
How to Read a T-Shirt Size Chart
Most T-shirt size charts list two measurements:
- Width (chest): measured across the front of the shirt from armpit to armpit, laid flat. This is half the full chest circumference.
- Length: measured from the highest point of the shoulder (next to the collar) straight down to the bottom hem.
Some charts also show sleeve length or a body chest measurement (your body, not the shirt). Always check which one the chart uses. A “chest 20 inches” on a flat-lay chart means a 40-inch shirt circumference.
How to Measure a T-Shirt You Already Own
- Pick your best-fitting tee. The one you reach for first.
- Lay it flat on a table and smooth out wrinkles.
- Measure the width straight across from armpit seam to armpit seam.
- Measure the length from the top of the shoulder by the collar down to the hem.
- Compare with the brand’s chart and pick the size with the closest numbers.
This is more reliable than measuring your body, because it compares shirt to shirt.
How to Measure Your Body
If you don’t have a tee to compare, measure your chest around the fullest part, under your arms, keeping the tape level. Then:
- For a fitted look: choose a shirt whose full circumference (width x 2) is 2 to 4 inches larger than your chest.
- For a relaxed look: choose one that’s 4 to 6 inches larger.
Our T-Shirt Size Chart
Our tees are a modern unisex fit. Measurements are taken with the shirt laid flat:
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 16.5 | 27 |
| S | 18 | 28 |
| M | 20 | 29 |
| L | 22 | 30 |
| XL | 24 | 31 |
| 2XL | 26 | 32 |
| 3XL | 28 | 33 |
| 4XL | 30 | 34 |
| 5XL | 32 | 35 |
Measurements can vary by up to 1 inch. See our full Size Guide.
Unisex vs. Women’s vs. Modern Fit
- Unisex (classic): straight cut, boxier body and wider sleeves. Women often size down one.
- Modern unisex fit: slimmer through the body and sleeves than a classic tee. Take your usual size, or size up for a relaxed look.
- Women’s fit: tapered at the waist with shorter sleeves. Usually runs small, so many people size up.
Does Cotton Shrink?
Untreated cotton can shrink up to about 5% in a hot wash and dryer. Most quality tees are pre-shrunk, which reduces this a lot. To keep the fit you bought:
- Wash cold
- Tumble dry low or hang dry
- Avoid high heat altogether for the first few washes
Want the full routine? Read our guide on how to wash graphic tees.
Quick Sizing Tips
- Between sizes? Size up for comfort, down for a closer fit.
- Buying a gift? L is the safest bet for most adults in a unisex modern fit.
- Check the fit description, not just the size letter. A brand’s M can be another brand’s L.
- Look for a free exchange. Ours is: your first size exchange is on us. See our Returns & Exchanges page.
Ready to Pick Your Size?
Browse our funny T-shirts. Every product page has a size guide right next to the size buttons, and every order ships free across the US.
