An M from one brand can be an L from another. The only reliable way to buy t-shirts online is to compare measurements: the garment's, not your body's guesswork. It takes five minutes with a measuring tape and a t-shirt you already like.
Lay a t-shirt that fits you well flat on a table. Measure across the chest from armpit to armpit and double it, then measure the shoulder, the length and the sleeve. Compare those numbers with the size chart on the product page and choose the size that is closest, leaning bigger if you like a relaxed fit.
What you need
- A soft measuring tape (a ruler and string works too).
- A t-shirt or polo that fits you the way you like.
- A flat table, and the size chart of the tee you want to buy.
How to measure a t-shirt
- Chest: lay it flat, smooth it out, and measure straight across from one armpit seam to the other. Double it for the full chest.
- Shoulder: measure from one shoulder seam to the other, across the back.
- Length: measure from the highest point of the shoulder, next to the collar, straight down to the hem.
- Sleeve: measure from the shoulder seam to the end of the sleeve.
Use the same units as the size chart: most Indian brands list inches.
Reading a size chart
Check whether the chart lists garment measurements or body measurements. A garment chest of 40 inches fits a body chest of roughly 37–39 inches, because a t-shirt needs room to move. Chest matters most; then check length, because a tee that is too short rides up and one that is too long looks untidy untucked.
Choosing between two sizes
- For a neat, close fit: choose the smaller size if its chest is within an inch of your favourite tee.
- For a relaxed fit or layering: choose the larger size.
- For polos: get the shoulder right first; a polo that is too wide at the shoulder never looks sharp.
Will it shrink?
Many cotton t-shirts lose some length after the first hot wash, which is why people buy a size up. If the fabric is pre-washed, buy your true size instead. See t-shirts that don't shrink.
Men's and women's fits
Women's t-shirts are usually cut narrower at the shoulder, shaped at the waist and shorter in the body and sleeve. If you are choosing between a men's and a women's tee, compare the measurements rather than the size letter.
Sizing at Abraca
Every Abraca product page lists the garment's measurements for each size. Men's Gutmann polos and Lokee round necks run from S to 2XL; women's tees from XS to XL. The panels are washed before sewing, so buy your true size. If it is not right, you can exchange it within 7 days of delivery.
Sizing questions
How do I know my t-shirt size?
Measure a t-shirt that fits you well, lying flat: chest (armpit to armpit, doubled), shoulder, length and sleeve. Then compare with the brand's size chart.
What size is a 40-inch chest t-shirt?
It depends on the brand. A 40-inch garment chest is a medium at many Indian brands, but always check the size chart on the product page.
Should I size up in case a t-shirt shrinks?
Only if the fabric is not pre-washed. With pre-washed fabric, buy your true size.
Are size charts body or garment measurements?
It varies. A garment chart lists the t-shirt's own measurements; a body chart lists yours. Abraca's charts list the garment.
What if the size is wrong?
At Abraca, raise an exchange within 7 days of delivery and we send the right size.
