Woman in a mustard Running on Spite and Coffee tee holding a coffee cup outside a cafe

Reading a Size Chart Without Guessing

“I’m usually a medium… I think?” Every brand cuts a little differently, so the label on your favorite shirt isn’t the most reliable guide. Your tape measure is. Here’s how to pick the right size in about two minutes.

What you need

  • A shirt or hoodie that already fits you the way you like
  • A tape measure (or a piece of string and a ruler)
  • A flat surface, like a table or the floor

Step 1: Lay it flat

Smooth the shirt out face up, with no wrinkles and the sleeves out to the sides.

Step 2: Measure these three things

  • Chest: measure straight across, one inch below the armholes, from side seam to side seam.
  • Body length: measure from the highest point of the shoulder, next to the collar, straight down to the hem.
  • Sleeve length: measure from the center back of the neck, over the shoulder, to the end of the sleeve.

Step 3: Compare with the size chart

Open the size guide on the product page and find the size whose chest width is closest to your measurement. Then check the length. If you’re between sizes, size up for a relaxed fit or size down for a closer fit.

A few honest notes

  • Measurements on size charts are for the garment laid flat, not for your body, so always compare shirt to shirt.
  • Printed tees can vary by up to about 2 inches from the chart depending on the manufacturer. That’s normal.
  • Hoodies and sweatshirts are cut roomier than tees, so you may not need to size up for a cozy fit.

Since every item is made just for you, ordering the wrong size isn’t something we can exchange. That’s why two minutes with a tape measure is worth it. Questions about fit? Ask a real human. We’re happy to help you pick.

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