BY STEVEN MAY 28, 2023
BY STEVEN MAY 28, 2023
BY STEVEN MAY 28, 2023
BY STEVEN MAY 28, 2023
BY STEVEN MAY 28, 2023
Men’s dress shirts are a big business and an important investment for any professional. The right dress shirt fit can make all the difference. A well-fitted shirt enhances your overall look, allowing you to move comfortably while projecting confidence. Whether you’re dressing up for a big meeting or heading out for a night on the town, understanding the nuances of dress shirt fit is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore the key areas to focus on, ensuring you find the perfect dress shirt that feels just as good as it looks.
Can Fit One Finger When Buttoned-Up
Getting the correct dress shirt collar fit around the neck is crucial for comfort and style. Your collar size needs to be spot-on. A good rule of thumb is to ensure you can comfortably fit one finger between your neck and the collar when the top button is fastened. This space ensures the collar isn’t too tight, especially when wearing a tie. If your collar is too snug, it can make you uncomfortable and restrict your movement. Conversely, if it’s too loose, it can look sloppy and unprofessional.
When measuring your neck, keep the tape measure snug but not tight. If you find yourself between sizes, always go for the larger size to avoid any choking sensation. Remember, a well-fitted collar should provide enough space to breathe easily while maintaining a clean and sharp appearance. The key is finding that sweet spot where the collar fits comfortably without any excess fabric bunching up around your neck.
Slim-Fit from Twillory – Nice Fit with room
Shoulder fit is crucial for achieving that perfect dress shirt look. The shoulder seams should align precisely with the edge of your shoulders. If the seams droop past your shoulders, the shirt is too large, making you look sloppy. On the other hand, if the seams are too close to your neck, the shirt is too small and will restrict your movement. For the right size, consider a made-to-measure shirt where the measurement between your shoulder points is considered.
I have evaluated numerous custom and semi-custom fit dress shirt companies, and Twillory offers the best fits and value in dress shirts. Their non-iron fabrics and different “fits,” from Slim to Classic Fit, factor all the critical body type differences as you select your neck and sleeve measurements of their dress shirts. Twillory does all of this with versatile styles at an incredible price point. Twillory makes the best dress shirts for all-day wear and comfort.
A well-fitted shoulder gives structure to your shirt and ensures you can move comfortably. It’s the foundation that supports the overall fit of your shirt. Whether you’re reaching for something on a high shelf or shaking hands at a business meeting, your shirt should provide the freedom to move without any discomfort. Pay attention to this detail because it can make or break your entire look.
Tailor taking the Shoulder Measurement
Comfort is just as important as style. Ensure there’s enough space in the shoulders to avoid pulling or tightness. This is particularly important for those with broader shoulders or more muscular builds. Finding that sweet spot in the shoulder fit will elevate your style and boost your confidence.
When trying on a dress shirt, give it a quick test by raising your arms and moving them around. If you feel any strain or if the fabric pulls too much, the shirt might not be the right fit for you. Always aim for a natural, easy range of motion. Your shoulders are the foundation, and getting them right sets the stage for a well-fitted, comfortable dress shirt that looks sharp.
The chest area of your dress shirt is where you need to strike a balance between roomy and baggy. You want to ensure enough room so the shirt doesn’t pull when you sit down, but it shouldn’t be excessively loose either. If your shirt is too tight, it can restrict your movement and feel uncomfortable. On the other hand, if it’s too baggy, it can make you look unkempt and sloppy.
When standing, the shirt should lightly hug your body but not cling to it. A good rule of thumb is to ensure you can comfortably slide a hand between your chest and the fabric. This gives you enough space for comfort while maintaining a sleek appearance. Think about your day-to-day activities: whether you’re reaching for something, shaking hands, or simply sitting down, your shirt should provide enough room without bunching up or feeling restrictive.
The same principles apply to the waist area of your dress shirt. Too many guys opt for slim-fit shirts that hug their waist too tight, restricting movement. This creates a problem when you sit; with less room, the buttons will look stressed, and your discomfort will be visible.
Remember, comfort and style go hand in hand. If you have a more muscular build, you might need a shirt with a little extra room in the chest area to avoid any pulling or tightness. The right fit will enhance your look, ensuring you appear polished and professional while allowing you to move freely. This balance is crucial, ensuring you can go about your day confidently and easily.
In the end, finding the right fit in the chest area can significantly improve your comfort and appearance. Always prioritize a fit that gives you enough room to breathe and move without looking baggy or unkempt.
A good dress shirt that fits around the upper arm is essential for comfort and style. When you bend or flex your arm, you should feel free to move without the fabric getting too tight. But be careful—too much fabric can make your shirt look baggy and unpolished. Ideally, you want a balance that gives you enough room for movement but still looks sharp and fitted.
Twillory Blue Check – Room To Bend Arm
Try this simple test: bend your arm as if you’re checking the time on your watch. If the shirt pulls tight across your bicep, it’s too small. If you see a lot of excess fabric, it’s too big. Your shirt should have just enough space to move comfortably without clinging to your muscles.
Remember, it’s not just about how the shirt feels but also how it looks. A well-fitted upper arm will enhance your overall appearance, making you look polished and confident. Pay attention to the fabric around your biceps and make sure it falls smoothly without bunching up. This way, you’ll avoid that sloppy look that comes from having too much fabric.
No Slide Down Arm When Bent
For those with more muscular arms, finding the right fit might mean opting for a slightly larger size or a shirt specifically designed for athletic builds. This will provide the extra room you need without compromising on style.
By paying attention to the fit around your upper arms, you can ensure your dress shirt offers both comfort and a sleek, professional appearance.
Untucked Length Before Tucking
After Tucking The Same Dress Shirt
Shirt length plays a key role in how polished you look, especially if you plan to tuck it in. Generally, your dress shirt should fall a few inches below your hips when tucked into your pants. This ensures that it stays in place throughout the day, whether you’re sitting, standing, or moving around. If your shirt is too short, it may come untucked easily, leading to an untidy appearance.
When trying on a dress shirt, pay attention to where the hem hits. A good guideline is that the shirt should cover your waistband and the top part of your pants’ seat. This provides enough fabric to keep the shirt securely tucked, without excess material bunching up.
For those who prefer an untucked look, the length still matters. Your shirt should hit mid-hip, giving a balanced look without appearing too long or too short. If the shirt goes past your bottom, it might look too casual and sloppy. On the flip side, a shirt that’s too short can make you look like you’re wearing the wrong size.
Remember, the right shirt length helps you maintain a neat and professional appearance. Whether you’re heading to the office or a night out, getting the length right ensures you look your best. Pay attention to these details when choosing your dress shirt, and you’ll always step out with confidence.
Not Too Tight At The Wrist
Cuffs and sleeve length are key elements in achieving a well-fitted dress shirt. The cuffs should fit comfortably around your wrist bone, allowing you to slide a watch under them with ease. They shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. When your cuffs are buttoned, the sleeves should extend about half an inch beyond your blazer or suit jacket sleeves for a polished look.
Use “Standard” unless told otherwise – Mine is 34.5 inches
To get the right length for your dress shirt sleeves, measure from the middle of the back of your neck, over your shoulder, and down to your wrist. This ensures the sleeves reach two inches beyond your wrist when the cuffs are unbuttoned, touching the base of your thumb. For example, my exact measurement is 34.5. If that is not an option, I usually go with a 35 inch slides. This length keeps your cuffs visible without being too short or too long.
When you move your arms, your shirt sleeves should stay in place and not ride up your forearms. A well-fitted sleeve allows for natural movement without feeling too tight or looking baggy. This balance is crucial for maintaining a sharp and professional appearance throughout the day.
Remember, the perfect fit in the cuffs and sleeves not only looks good but also feels comfortable. When your dress shirt fits well in these areas, it enhances your overall look, ensuring you appear polished and confident no matter the occasion. Remember these tips, and you’ll always have a shirt that looks great and feels even better.
Finding the perfect fitted dress shirt combines science and personal preference. While guidelines help you achieve a comfortable and stylish fit, remember that everyone’s body is different. The key is to prioritize comfort while ensuring a flattering look. Don’t hesitate to try different styles and sizes until you find what works best. Whether you prefer a slim-fit shirt or something with more room, your ultimate goal is to feel and look confident. Remember that dress shirt fit can vary by brand, so always try on a shirt before deciding. As I recommended, Twillory is my overall favorite.
If you’re in doubt, opt for a slightly larger size for more comfort, but make sure it looks manageable. Your dress shirt should allow your full range of motion and fit well across the neck, shoulders, chest, and arms. With the right fit, you’ll not only look great but also feel comfortable all day long. Use these tips as a starting point and adjust based on your unique body type and personal style. Happy shirt shopping!
