The fabric is soft and flowing, the color is exactly what you had in mind, and yet for some reason the new shirt sits as if it belonged to someone else? The wrong cut can disfigure the finest men's shirt. So what should you look out for? We would like to show you how to determine the fit that is right for you and why investing in a made-to-measure shirt can pay off over the years.
Determining the right shirt size with the right fitting
The cut of a shirt is also referred to as its fit. This is essentially determined by two factors: the figure of the wearer and their personal preferences. The details on cuts and fits can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but at the core there are four cuts, and we at Christian Weilert Made-to-Measure distinguish between them as well:
Super Slim: very narrow fit, strongly waisted
Body Fit: narrow fit, waisted
Regular Fit: modern fit, lightly waisted
Comfort Fit: normal fit, not waisted
So that you feel comfortable in your shirt in every situation, we recommend precise measuring. Because besides the fit, the length of the sleeves, the width of the shoulders and the overall length of the shirt matter as well. If you wear shirts often, we recommend having a made-to-measure shirt made exactly to your wishes.
These shirt fits are available
The challenge when buying a shirt is to choose the cut that suits you. This is mainly determined by your build, but the occasion and personal preference have a say as well. For men with a strong figure we recommend the Comfort Fit, for a normal figure the Regular Fit is very well suited, and anyone who is very slim can choose between Super Slim Fit, Body Fit and Regular Fit.
Super Slim – the strongly waisted cut for a body-conscious look
This fit is also called X-Slim or Extra Slim by some manufacturers and is aimed at very slim men who prefer a skin-tight fit for their shirt. With this very narrow cut, the proportions of the body are clearly shown off, and besides the waist that also applies to the area of the arms and shoulders. This very sporty look is outstandingly suited to casual wear or as relaxed evening wear. It is rather rarely chosen for very festive occasions or business suits.
Body Fit – the waisted cut for a sporty look
This likewise very body-conscious cut is also listed as Slim Fit or Tight Fit and is among the favorites with slim men. It creates a narrow silhouette and still offers a little room for movement. The Body Fit shirt should always lie close to the body without cutting into the armpits or showing through strongly. That makes Body Fit a good choice for business shirts or for shirts that are to be worn at festive occasions such as weddings. Combined with jeans or chinos, the Slim Fit shirt can be worked into everyday wear as well.
Modern Fit – the lightly waisted cut for a calm line
Modern Fit, also called Regular Fit, describes a straight, very classic cut. The fit is minimally waisted and therefore well suited to men with a normal figure. Because the chest and the waist are cut to roughly the same width, slim men who like things a little more comfortable are glad to reach for the Modern Fit as well. Shirts with this fit can be worn anywhere: with a business suit, in your free time, at festive occasions and weddings.
Comfort Fit – straight cut with classic flair
This is probably the most classic cut for a men's shirt, which is why it is often called Classic Fit as well. Shirts with this fit hang very loosely and flatter men with a strong build above all. The shirt puffs up a little above the belt, which is a good way to conceal the beginnings of a belly. This fit is a popular choice for all occasions and is convincing in your free time as well as on festive occasions.
Which size is the right one for my shirt?
Once you have chosen the right fit, you should also pay attention to a suitable neck circumference, that is, the right collar size, for a good fit. A shirt in size 40/41, for example, corresponds to a neck circumference of 40 to 41 centimeters. Combined with the right fit, this is how you find a shirt that really suits you and your style.
Please note that the names of the fits can turn out slightly different from brand to brand. Where Modern Fit is hardly waisted at one brand, it may be more so at another. For a truly perfect fit we recommend investing in a hand-tailored made-to-measure shirt. It can be worn on any occasion and gives you style and elegance.
When does a shirt not fit?
There are a few signs that point to a poor fit. If you are unsure during the fitting whether the shirt you have chosen really fits well, we recommend paying attention to the following:
- The shirt pulls around the stomach. In that case it is better to reach for a wider cut, so that the shirt does not constrict you when sitting or standing. At every fitting you should therefore carry out the sitting test.
- The shirt binds when you stretch your arms above your head. Slim Fit shirts or X-Slim shirts should always offer enough room for you to move freely as well. Reach for a larger size or a wider cut if your shirt slips out of your trousers when you stretch, binds in the armpits or does not even let you stretch your arms out comfortably in the first place.
- The shirt looks too short. Even if you do not want to wear the shirt tucked into your trousers, it has to have a minimum length. The hem should just about reach the middle of the backside, no further.
- When you bend over, the shirt is too tight across the back. At the fitting the rule is: move around extensively! That way you will quickly notice whether the shirt has the right size and fit to accompany you through the day.
- The sleeves are too long or too short. Often forgotten, but essential for a perfect fit, is the length of the sleeves. With your arms hanging down, the sleeves should reach the tips of your thumbs at most.
We will gladly advise you on a suitable cut, take your measurements and make your new shirt exactly to your wishes. Simply contact us for a consultation with no obligation!