Every Product Has a Size Chart
Good news: every product on T-Shirt Elephant includes a detailed size chart right on the product page. When you browse our catalog, click on any item to see exact measurements for chest width, body length, and sleeve length. No guessing required!
Nothing ruins a custom t-shirt order faster than sizing problems. Shirts that are too tight stay in drawers. Shirts that are too big look sloppy. Getting sizing right the first time saves money, avoids returns, and ensures everyone actually wears your custom apparel.
This guide covers everything you need to know about t-shirt sizing: how to measure yourself and garments, understanding size charts, the difference between fitted and relaxed fits, brand-specific sizing quirks, and how to order the right mix of sizes for groups and events.
Already know your blank? Check our guide on How to Choose the Right T-Shirt Blank for fabric, weight, and brand recommendations.
How to Measure for a T-Shirt
Before diving into size charts, you need accurate measurements. There are two approaches: measure your body directly, or measure a t-shirt that already fits you well.
Measuring Your Body
Chest Measurement
Wrap a soft tape measure around the fullest part of your chest, under your armpits, keeping it parallel to the ground. Keep it snug but allow two fingers between the tape and your body. This is your chest circumference.
Body Length
Measure from the highest point of your shoulder (where shoulder seam sits) down to where you want the shirt to end. Standard length hits at the hip; add 2-3" if you tuck shirts in.
Shoulder Width (Optional)
Measure across your back from the edge of one shoulder to the other. This helps with fitted styles where shoulder seam placement matters.
Measuring a T-Shirt You Own
This method is often more accurate. Find a t-shirt that fits you perfectly and lay it flat on a hard surface (not a bed).
- Body Width: Measure across the chest, 1 inch below the armpits, from side seam to side seam. Double this number for full chest measurement.
- Body Length: Measure from the highest point of the shoulder (where the seam meets the collar) straight down to the bottom hem.
- Sleeve Length: Measure from shoulder seam to the end of the sleeve.
Pro Tip: Check the Size Chart on Each Product Page
Every product on T-Shirt Elephant has a size chart with exact garment measurements. Size charts show "garment measurements" (actual shirt dimensions)—a 22" body width means 44" around. Allow 2-4" of ease for comfort. Browse t-shirts and click any product to view its specific size chart.
Men's & Unisex Sizing
Unisex t-shirts are based on men's sizing. They have broader shoulders, a boxier cut, and longer sleeves than women's styles. When you see "unisex," think "men's fit that anyone can wear."
Standard Men's/Unisex Size Chart
| Size | Chest (in) | Body Width (in) | Body Length (in) | Fits Chest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 30-32" | 16-17" | 27" | 30-32" |
| S | 34-36" | 18-19" | 28" | 34-36" |
| M | 38-40" | 20-21" | 29" | 38-40" |
| L | 42-44" | 22-23" | 30" | 42-44" |
| XL | 46-48" | 24-25" | 31" | 46-48" |
| 2XL | 50-52" | 26-27" | 32" | 50-52" |
| 3XL | 54-56" | 28-29" | 33" | 54-56" |
Note: Exact measurements vary by brand. Every product page on T-Shirt Elephant shows the exact size chart—just click on any Gildan, Bella+Canvas, or Next Level shirt to see its specific measurements.
Women Ordering Unisex
Size down 1-2 sizes from your women's size. If you wear a women's medium, try a unisex small. Unisex shirts are wider in the shoulders and boxier through the torso than women's cuts.
Women's Sizing
Women's cut t-shirts (also called "ladies" or "fitted") are designed specifically for women's body proportions. They have narrower shoulders, a tapered waist, room at the hips, shorter sleeves, and a lower neckline.
Women's Cut
- Narrower shoulders
- Tapered/contoured waist
- Flared at hips
- Shorter, tighter sleeves
- Lower, more flattering neckline
- Overall more fitted look
Unisex (on Women)
- Broader shoulders (may look oversized)
- Straight, boxy torso
- No hip accommodation
- Longer, looser sleeves
- Higher crew neckline
- Relaxed, casual look
Standard Women's Size Chart
| Size | Bust (in) | Waist (in) | Body Length (in) | Numeric Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 30-32" | 24-26" | 24" | 0-2 |
| S | 32-34" | 26-28" | 25" | 4-6 |
| M | 34-36" | 28-30" | 26" | 8-10 |
| L | 38-40" | 32-34" | 27" | 12-14 |
| XL | 42-44" | 36-38" | 28" | 16-18 |
| 2XL | 46-48" | 40-42" | 29" | 20-22 |
Pro Tip: Women's vs Unisex for Groups
For mixed-gender groups, many women prefer unisex for the relaxed fit. If offering both options, let people self-select. Check our women's t-shirts collection—every product shows size charts with bust, waist, and length measurements.
Youth Sizing (Ages 3-14)
Youth sizes are designed for children and young teens. They're proportioned differently than adult sizes—shorter in length relative to width. Youth XL is NOT the same as Adult Small.
Youth Size by Age
Youth Size Chart (Measurements)
| Size | Numeric | Body Width | Body Length | Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 2-4 | 14" | 18" | 33-42 |
| S | 6-8 | 16" | 20" | 43-57 |
| M | 10-12 | 17" | 22" | 58-67 |
| L | 14-16 | 18" | 24" | 68-87 |
| XL | 18-20 | 19" | 26" | 88-107 |
Youth XL vs Adult Small
Youth XL is wider and shorter than Adult Small. For teens between youth and adult sizes, Adult Small is usually better—it's proportioned longer in the body. Compare measurements, not just size labels.
Pro Tip: Use Height, Not Age
Kids grow at different rates. A tall 7-year-old might need Youth L while a smaller 9-year-old fits Youth S. Use height and weight as your primary guides, not age alone.
Toddler & Infant Sizing
Baby and toddler clothing uses different sizing systems. Infant sizes are based on age in months; toddler sizes use "T" designations.
Infant Sizes (0-24 Months)
| Size | Age | Weight (lbs) | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newborn | 0-6 weeks | 5-8 | 17-21" |
| 0-3M | 0-3 months | 8-12 | 21-24" |
| 3-6M | 3-6 months | 12-16 | 24-27" |
| 6-12M | 6-12 months | 16-22 | 27-29" |
| 12-18M | 12-18 months | 22-27 | 29-31" |
| 18-24M | 18-24 months | 27-30 | 31-33" |
Toddler Sizes (2T-5T)
| Size | Age | Weight (lbs) | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2T | 2 years | 25-29 | 33-36" |
| 3T | 3 years | 29-33 | 36-39" |
| 4T | 4 years | 33-37 | 39-42" |
| 5T | 5 years | 37-42 | 42-44" |
24 Months vs 2T: What's the Difference?
24-month clothes are designed for babies in diapers—with snap closures and room for diapers. 2T is for potty-trained toddlers with pull-on pants and easier bathroom access. Size-wise they're similar, but the design differs.
Fitted vs Relaxed Fit
"Fit" describes how the shirt is cut and how it drapes on your body. The same size can fit very differently depending on whether it's a fitted or relaxed style.
Fitted / Retail Fit
- Slimmer through shoulders and torso
- Shorter sleeves that hug the arm
- Shorter body length
- More tapered/contoured
- Looks like store-bought fashion tees
- Brands: Bella+Canvas, Next Level
Relaxed / Classic Fit
- Roomier through body
- Longer, looser sleeves
- Longer body length
- Boxy, straight cut
- Accommodates all body types
- Brands: Gildan, Hanes, Port & Company
When to Choose Each Fit
- Fitted: Retail brands, fashion-conscious audiences, younger demographics, merchandise for sale
- Relaxed: Corporate groups, mixed body types, workwear, events where comfort trumps style, anyone who prefers looser clothing
Size Up for Fitted Brands
If ordering Bella+Canvas or Next Level and you usually wear relaxed fit, consider sizing up. A Gildan Large wearer might need XL in Bella+Canvas for similar room.
Brand-Specific Sizing Differences
Different brands size differently—even within the same "size." A medium in one brand might fit like a large in another. Here's what you need to know about popular blank brands.
Gildan vs Bella+Canvas vs Next Level
| Feature | Gildan 5000 | Bella+Canvas 3001 | Next Level 3600 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fit Style | Relaxed, boxy | Fitted, retail | Fitted, fashion |
| Runs... | True to size / Roomy | Small / Fitted | Small / Slim |
| Size Range | S - 5XL | XS - 4XL | XS - 3XL |
| Medium Width | ~20" | ~18" | ~18" |
| Medium Length | ~29" | ~28" | ~28" |
| Best For | Groups, events, value | Retail, fashion | Fashion, youth market |
Pro Tip: Size Charts on Every Product Page
Even within a brand, styles fit differently. The Gildan 5000 fits different than Gildan Softstyle. Every product on T-Shirt Elephant displays its exact size chart—just click to view before ordering.
Understanding Shrinkage
Cotton shrinks. How much depends on the fabric content, whether it's pre-shrunk, and how you wash it. Plan accordingly.
Shrinkage by Fabric Type
| Fabric | Typical Shrinkage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 100% Cotton (non pre-shrunk) | 5-10% | Can shrink significantly; size up |
| 100% Cotton (pre-shrunk) | 2-5% | Most blanks are pre-shrunk |
| Cotton/Poly Blend (50/50) | 1-3% | Polyester stabilizes shrinkage |
| Tri-Blend | 1-2% | Minimal shrinkage |
| 100% Polyester | <1% | Almost no shrinkage |
Where Shirts Shrink Most
- Length: Shrinks most—expect 5-6% loss in body and sleeve length
- Width: Shrinks less—typically 2-3% in chest width
- Result: Shirts get shorter more than they get narrower
How to Minimize Shrinkage
- Wash in cold water (not hot)
- Air dry or tumble dry on low heat
- Remove from dryer while slightly damp
- Choose pre-shrunk or poly-blend fabrics
Should You Size Up for Shrinkage?
If you plan to machine wash in hot water and tumble dry on high heat, size up—especially for 100% cotton. If you'll wash cold and air dry (or the shirt is pre-shrunk/poly-blend), order true to size.
Extended & Big/Tall Sizes
Need sizes beyond 2XL? Most blank brands offer extended sizes, and specialized options exist for tall individuals.
Available Extended Sizes by Brand
- Gildan: Up to 5XL in most styles
- Bella+Canvas: Up to 4XL
- Port & Company: Up to 6XL, with tall options (LT, XLT, 2XLT, 3XLT)
- Hanes: Up to 4XL with tall options
Big vs Tall: What's the Difference?
Big Sizes (2XL-5XL+)
- Wider/fuller cut
- More room in chest and waist
- Standard body length
- For larger builds
Tall Sizes (LT, XLT, 2XLT)
- Standard width
- 2-3" longer body length
- Longer sleeves
- For men 6'2" and taller
Need extended sizes? Browse our Gildan 5000 (available to 5XL) or contact T-Shirt Elephant—we can source extended sizes and tall options for most orders. Every product page shows available sizes.
Sizing for Group Orders & Events
Ordering for a group? You have two options: collect sizes from everyone, or estimate using size distribution percentages.
Option 1: Collect Sizes (Preferred)
The most accurate method. Create a sign-up sheet, send a survey, or use a Google Form. Collect name, size, and (if offering) style preference (unisex vs women's).
Option 2: Use Size Distribution Percentages
When you can't collect sizes, use historical averages. Based on thousands of group orders, here's the typical size distribution:
The 1-2-3-3-1 Ratio
A simple starting point: for every 10 shirts, order 1 Small, 2 Medium, 3 Large, 3 XL, and 1 2XL. Adjust based on your specific group.
Adjusting for Your Group
- Fitness/athletic events: Skew smaller (more S, M)
- BBQ/food festivals: Skew larger (more L, XL, 2XL)
- Younger demographics: More S and M
- Corporate/mixed age: Standard distribution works well
Common Mistake: Too Many Smalls
People consistently under-order large sizes and over-order smalls. Large is the #1 most ordered size. When in doubt, order more L and XL—a too-big shirt is wearable; a too-small one isn't.
Pro Tip: Order 5-10% Extra
Always order 5-10% more shirts than you need, mostly in L and XL. This covers last-minute additions, sizing mistakes, and replacements. Better to have a few extras than not enough.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming all brands fit the same: Always check the specific brand's size chart.
- Ordering too many smalls: Large is the most common size, not medium or small.
- Not accounting for shrinkage: 100% cotton shrinks 3-5%—plan accordingly.
- Thinking Youth XL = Adult S: They're different proportions—use Adult S for teens.
- Women ordering usual size in unisex: Size down 1-2 sizes in unisex.
- Not ordering extras: Always get 5-10% extra for group orders.
- Ignoring fit type: Fitted brands run small; relaxed brands run true to size.
- Guessing instead of measuring: Take 2 minutes to measure—it's worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size should a woman order in a unisex t-shirt?
Size down 1-2 sizes from your standard women's size. If you wear a women's medium, try a unisex small. Unisex is based on men's sizing, so shirts run larger with broader shoulders.
How much do cotton t-shirts shrink?
100% cotton typically shrinks 3-5% after the first wash. Pre-shrunk cotton shrinks 1-3%. Length shrinks more than width. Wash in cold and air dry to minimize shrinkage.
Do Bella+Canvas shirts run smaller than Gildan?
Yes. Bella+Canvas uses a fitted "retail fit" while Gildan has a relaxed "classic fit." If you wear a Gildan Large, you may need XL in Bella+Canvas for similar room.
What's the most common t-shirt size for events?
Large (32%), followed by Medium (28%), XL (19%), Small (10%), and 2XL (8%). The most common mistake is ordering too many smalls and not enough large/XL.
What's the difference between 24 months and 2T?
24-month clothes are for babies in diapers (with snaps/room for diapers). 2T is for potty-trained toddlers with easier bathroom access. Similar sizing, different design.
Should I size up for shrinkage?
For 100% cotton with hot wash/dry, yes—size up. For pre-shrunk, poly-blends, or cold wash/air dry, order true to size. When in doubt, slightly larger is safer than too tight.
Does Youth XL equal Adult Small?
No. Youth XL is wider and shorter than Adult Small—different proportions. For teens between sizes, Adult Small is usually better as it's proportioned longer in the body.
What sizes are available for big and tall?
Most brands go to 4XL-5XL. Tall sizes (LT, XLT, 2XLT) are 2-3" longer in the body. Contact T-Shirt Elephant for extended size options—we can source up to 5XL and tall sizes.
Where can I find the size chart for a specific product?
Every product on T-Shirt Elephant has a size chart right on the product page. Just browse our catalog, click on any item, and you'll see exact measurements for chest width, body length, and sleeve length for each size. No guessing—see the actual garment measurements before you order.
Ready to Order? Size Charts on Every Product
Every product page shows detailed size charts. Browse our catalog, check the measurements, and order with confidence. Need help? Our team has sized thousands of group orders.
