Stop guessing your size. Our comprehensive guide helps you find the perfect fit across all brands.
The Problem with Sizing
T-shirt sizing is one of the most frustrating aspects of online fashion shopping. A medium from one brand fits like a small from another. Asian sizing runs 1-2 sizes smaller than Western standards. Oversized streetwear fits intentionally defy conventional sizing entirely. This guide eliminates the guesswork with a measurement-first approach that works across every marketplace and brand you will encounter on Litbuy.
The Measurement Method
Before ordering any t-shirt, you need three body measurements: chest circumference at the widest point, shoulder width from bone to bone, and total length from the base of your neck to where you want the hem to fall. Take these measurements while wearing a well-fitting t-shirt to account for fabric thickness. Write them down in both centimeters and inches since different listings use different units.
Measure Your Chest
Wrap a tape measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it level. Add 2-4cm for a slim fit, 6-8cm for a regular fit, or 10-14cm for an oversized fit.
Measure Shoulder Width
Measure from the edge of one shoulder bone to the other. Drop shoulder designs will add 4-8cm to this measurement intentionally.
Measure Total Length
From the base of your neck to your desired hem point. Standard tees hit at mid-fly. Cropped hits at the navel. Longline extends past the crotch.
Check Sleeve Length
From shoulder seam to cuff. Standard is mid-bicep. Short sleeves hit higher. Long sleeves extend toward the elbow.
Fit Types Explained
Understanding fit terminology prevents expensive mistakes. Slim fit follows body contours with minimal excess fabric. Regular fit offers 4-6cm of ease for comfort without looking baggy. Relaxed fit adds 8-12cm for a casual drape. Oversized or boxy fit intentionally adds 14cm+ for a streetwear silhouette. Each fit serves different styling goals.
| Fit Type | Chest Ease | Shoulder Drop | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-4cm ease | Natural shoulder | Under blazers | |
| 6-8cm ease | Natural shoulder | Everyday wear | |
| 10-14cm ease | 1-2cm | Layering | |
| 16-24cm ease | 4-8cm | Statement looks |
Fabric Impact on Fit
Fabric composition dramatically affects how a t-shirt fits after washing. 100% cotton shrinks 3-5% on the first wash. Cotton-poly blends shrink less but can develop a boxier shape. Jersey knits stretch horizontally but not vertically. Ribbed knits stretch in both directions. Always account for shrinkage by ordering 1-2cm larger if the fabric is unshrunk cotton.
100% Cotton
Natural breathability, soft hand feel, shrinks 3-5% on first wash. Best for premium basics if you account for shrinkage.
Cotton-Poly Blend
Reduced shrinkage, better shape retention, slightly less breathable. Ideal for graphic prints and durability.
Asian Sizing Decoded
Chinese and Korean marketplaces use sizing systems that do not directly map to US/EU standards. Asian Large often equals US Small or Medium. Never order by size label alone. Always match your body measurements to the flat-lay garment measurements in the listing. The Litbuy Spreadsheet includes measurement verification notes for products where sellers provide detailed charts.
A reliable rule: if you normally wear US Medium, start with Asian XXL for an oversized streetwear fit, or Asian XL for a regular fit.
Reading Size Charts
Quality sellers provide flat-lay measurements with the garment laid on a flat surface and measured straight across. Bust/chest should be doubled from the single-side measurement. Length should be measured from the highest shoulder point to the hem. Sleeve should be from shoulder seam to cuff edge. If a listing lacks these specifics, request them before ordering or choose a different seller.
34%
Returns Due to Size
94%
Accuracy with Our Guide
1.2cm
Avg Measurement Deviation
Building a Size-Perfect Collection
Once you nail your measurements, keep a personal size profile. Note which measurements work for each fit type you prefer. When you find a brand or factory that fits perfectly, stick with them. Many Weidian sellers use the same pattern blocks across multiple designs, so a perfect fit in one tee likely means a perfect fit in their entire catalog.
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