If you plan to buy a shirt for yourself or your boyfriend, obtaining the correct neck size and sleeve length is essential. These measurements are simple to take and will ensure you end up with a well-fitting, stylish shirt. Follow the steps outlined in this article to determine the right measurements and shirt size.
Steps
Measuring Neck Size

Start taking measurements. Wrap the measuring tape around your neck, approximately 2.5cm below the point where your neck meets your shoulders. This spot is usually just below your Adam's apple.

Keep the measuring tape straight. Wrap it around your neck smoothly without twisting it. Avoid pulling it too tight; it should sit comfortably while providing an accurate measurement. Ensure the tape is level and not tilted.

Record the measurement. This is your neck circumference. The collar size will be approximately 1.5cm larger. For example, if your neck measures 38cm, the collar size would be 39.5cm.
- If the measurement includes a 0.25 increment, round it up to 0.5. For instance, a 16.25cm neck size would round up to 16.5cm.
- Neck sizes typically range between 35.5cm and 48cm.
Measuring Sleeve Length

Stand in the correct posture. Before measuring, stand straight with your arms at your sides. Slightly bend your arm and place your fingers in your front pocket.

Position the measuring tape correctly. Start at the center of the upper back, just below the neck.

Take the first measurement. Measure the length from the center of the upper back to the shoulder seam. Record this measurement as it will be needed for the next step.

Take the second measurement. Measure the length from the shoulder seam to the wrist bone. Ensure the tape extends to the wrist bone, being careful not to stop short, which could result in sleeves that are too short.

Determine the sleeve length. Add the two measurements together to calculate the total sleeve length. Sleeve lengths typically range between 81cm and 94cm.
Determine Shirt Size

Use your measurements. Men's shirt sizes are divided into two parts. The first number on the label represents the collar size, and the second indicates the sleeve length. For example, a shirt labeled 16/34 (equivalent to 40.5/86cm) uses these measurements. Use your neck and sleeve measurements to find the correct shirt size.

Find general shirt sizes. If the shirt you're looking for doesn't specify exact measurements but uses traditional sizes like "Small," "Medium," or "Large," you can use your measurements to determine the appropriate size. Refer to the chart below to find the best fit for you.
Kích thước áo | Kích thước cổ áo | Độ dài tay áo |
---|---|---|
Cỡ nhỏ | 14 - 14 ½ (35,5 - 37cm) | 32 - 33 (81 - 84cm) |
Cỡ vừa | 15 - 15 ½ (38 - 39cm) | 32 - 33 (81 - 84cm) |
Cỡ to | 16 - 16 ½ (40,5 - 42cm) | 34 - 35 (86 - 89cm) |
Cỡ to-X | 17 - 17 ½ (43 - 44,5cm) | 34 - 35 (86 - 89cm) |
Cỡ to-XX | 18 - 18 ½ (45,5 - 47cm) | 35 - 36 (89 - 91cm) |
Tips
- The chart above provides approximate values for sleeve length and shirt size. Sleeve length may vary depending on your height and other factors, such as the natural length of your arms.
- When trying on a shirt, ensure the collar fits comfortably around your neck without being too tight. You should be able to easily fit two overlapping fingers inside the collar.
- If you're in a store, ask the staff to help measure your neck size and sleeve length!
- When purchasing a suit jacket to wear with your shirt, make sure the shirt sleeves are long enough to extend about 1.5cm beyond the jacket sleeves.
- Check the fabric type to avoid shrinkage after washing.