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How to measure your chest size
Ever struggled with finding the perfect fit for shirts, waistcoats, or jackets? It all starts with knowing how to measure your chest size—it’s the key to shirt nirvana. Knowing your chest size unlocks a world of well-fitted garments that'll have you looking sharp and feeling confident. Let's dive into the art of chest size measurement.
Read more Hide5 Simple Steps on How to Measure Chest Size
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
First things first—grab a flexible tape measure and a trusted friend to assist you. You'll want to ensure an accurate measurement, so avoid using a ruler or a stiff measuring tape.
Step 2: Find Your Starting Point
Stand up straight with your arms by your sides. Wear a well-fitted shirt (or no shirt at all) to get the most accurate measurement. This will help prevent any bulk from affecting your measurement.
Step 3: Measure Across the Fullest Part
Wrap the tape measure round the fullest part of your chest, positioning it horizontally across your nipples. Make sure the tape is parallel to the ground and snug against your skin, but not too tight. You want it to be comfortably snug, allowing for natural breathing. You should be able to get your fingers between the tape and your body.
Step 4: Take the Measurement
Have your friend check the measurement where the beginning end of the tape meets the rest of it. Make sure the tape is level all the way around your chest. Record the measurement in inches or centimetres—whichever you prefer.
Step 5: Double-Check and Repeat
To ensure accuracy, it's a good idea to take a couple of measurements and then average them out. Double-check that the tape is positioned correctly and that you're not holding your breath or puffing out your chest, as this can skew the results.
Step 1
Gather Your Tools
First things first—grab a flexible tape measure and a trusted friend to assist you. You'll want to ensure an accurate measurement, so avoid using a ruler or a stiff measuring tape.
Step 2
Find Your Starting Point
Stand up straight with your arms by your sides. Wear a well-fitted shirt (or no shirt at all) to get the most accurate measurement. This will help prevent any bulk from affecting your measurement.
Step 3
Measure Across
the Fullest Part
Wrap the tape measure round the fullest part of your chest, positioning it horizontally across your nipples. Make sure the tape is parallel to the ground and snug against your skin, but not too tight. You want it to be comfortably snug, allowing for natural breathing. You should be able to get your fingers between the tape and your body.
Step 4
Take the
Measurement
Have your friend check the measurement where the beginning end of the tape meets the rest of it. Make sure the tape is level all the way around your chest. Record the measurement in inches or centimetres—whichever you prefer.
Step 5
Double-Check and Repea
To ensure accuracy, it's a good idea to take a couple of measurements and then average them out. Double-check that the tape is positioned correctly and that you're not holding your breath or puffing out your chest, as this can skew the results.
And there you have it - you've now mastered how to tie a bow tie. Just one practical tip: practise how to tie a dickie bow well ahead of the event (and have a handy ready-tied option in your tuxedo pocket, just in case). For some formal occasions, you might prefer to try a Windsor knot or tie a Half Windsor. However, when it comes to black tie events, the best tie is undoubtedly bowed.
To find out more about capturing that sharp evening wear look, take a look at our guide to how to dress for a dinner party. Complete your black tie outfit with other items from our dapper collection, from dinner jacketsto cuff links, silky pocket squares to polished shoes.
Choosing the Right Shirt for Your Chest Size
Now that you know your measurements, you’re a step closer to finding the ideally fitted dress shirt, waistcoat or jacket. When choosing the right shirt for your chest size, the way it fits is everything. Here’s what to do:
- Choose shirts labelled with your chest measurement or size range to ensure a snug yet comfortable fit.
- Opt for styles with some stretch or room in the chest area to accommodate movement.
It's better to go slightly larger and tailor down than to squeeze into a shirt that's too small.
Also, remember that your chest size doesn’t always determine your shirt fit size. For example, a 38-inch chest could mean you’re a medium in the classic fit range but a small in the slim fit range.
Here are a few other shirt fit dos and don’ts.
Outfit Do's
- Opt for Tailored Fits: Look for shirts labelled as ‘tailored’ or ‘fitted’, as they're designed to provide a sleek silhouette.
- Consider Stretch Fabrics: Fabrics with a bit of stretch can accommodate variations in chest size while maintaining a flattering fit.
- Experiment with Different Necklines: V-neck or scoop neck shirts can elongate the torso and draw attention away from a larger chest.
- Focus on Vertical Patterns: Vertical stripes or patterns can create the illusion of a slimmer chest area.
Outfit Don'ts
- Avoid Baggy Styles: Oversized or boxy shirts can add bulk and make your chest appear larger.
- Steer Clear of Tight Fits: While you want a snug fit, avoid shirts that are overly tight across the chest, as they can restrict movement and appear unflattering.
- Say No to Horizontal Stripes: Horizontal stripes or patterns can visually widen the chest area, so it's best to avoid them.
- Skip High Necklines: High-necked shirts can emphasise a larger chest, so opt for styles with lower necklines instead.
By following these dos and don'ts, you'll be better equipped to select shirts that flatter your chest size and enhance your overall appearance. For more details on our fits, check out our shirt size guide.
Looking to understand your other measurements?
Finding the right shirt fit is all about prioritising comfort and confidence. You'll ensure a comfortable, flattering look by measuring your chest accurately, considering your sleeve length, neck size, and shoulder measurements, plus choosing shirts with the proper fit. So, embrace your unique measurements, shop with confidence, and wear your perfectly fitting shirts proudly. Here's to looking and feeling your best, one well-fitted shirt at a time.
