Tall Mens Fashion Advice

How to Measure Chest Size: Men’s Guide

Here is how to measure your chest

How to Measure Chest Size

Men's Guide

To find your chest measurement, grab a friend, take a soft tape measure, and get them to wrap it under your armpits at the widest part of your chest. The tape measure should be snug around your chest and shoulder blades but not so tight that it squeezes your chest. The number in inches is your chest size.

This is How to Measure Chest Size: Men’s Guide.

Welcome to our guide to measuring your chest size. 

Getting the correct measurement for your chest is essential when getting bespoke suits, shirts, t-shirts or sweaters made. Also, it is more relevant to the growing online e-commerce movement.

If possible, head to your favourite tailor to get the measurement taken. If that is not possible, then follow our steps below. 

Tools needed to measure your chest:

  • Sewing tape measure

How to Measure Chest Size

  1. Stand up straight, with your arms resting comfortably at your sides. Keep your arms and chest relaxed and neutral.
  2. Take a sewing tape measure and wrap it under your armpits at the widest part of your chest.
  3. The tape measure should be snug around your chest and shoulder blades but not so tight that it squeezes your chest.
  4. The number in inches is your chest size.

How to Measure Chest Size: Tips

  • For the most accurate measurement have a professional tailor measure your chest
  • If that is not possible, ask a friend to help you through these three steps.
  • Do not use the measuring tape from your toolbox; instead, use a sewing tape.
  • A sewing tape measure is made for these exact measurements with a flexible band to hug the contours of your body.
  • Wear minimal layers, or measure with your shirt off.

Find our other how to measure guides to help you make precise measurements as you grow your wardrobe.

How to Measure Chest Size FAQ

A 42 inch men’s chest will put you into a Large shirt. Not all brands use the same guidelines so check the brands sizing guide before purchasing

Men’s chest sizes vary around the world. Between 38-40 inches is a normal chest size for a man living in North America.

Written and reviewed by
Tall Paul
Tall Paul
Paul Marlow, standing at an impressive 6'7 (201cm) and weighing 225lb (102kg), is a mental health speaker, fashion expert, and ex-athlete who excels at helping tall men find well-fitting clothing and teaching them how to style it effectively. As a model in the fashion and film industries, Paul shares his expertise in tall men's fashion, offering valuable advice on measurements, tailoring, and alterations. In addition, he founded Never Alone, an organization that provides mental health and therapy inspiration, and started the Mental Growth Newsletter to support those facing mental health challenges, drawing from his own experiences.

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