Indian shirt sizing uses two systems at once, which is why the same man can be a 40 in one brand and a Large in another and neither fits. Here is how to work out your real size, and how to measure yourself so you stop guessing.
What the numbers mean
The number on a formal shirt — 38, 39, 40, 42, 44 — is the collar circumference in centimetres. A size 40 shirt has a collar measuring 40cm. It says nothing directly about the chest, although brands grade the body proportionally from it.
S/M/L/XL sizing is used mainly on casual shirts and maps roughly as: S = 38, M = 39–40, L = 41–42, XL = 43–44. This mapping varies between brands, which is precisely why trying things on still matters.
Measuring yourself at home
Collar — measure around the base of the neck where the collar sits, keeping one finger under the tape. Round up to the nearest whole centimetre.
Chest — around the fullest part, under the arms, tape level and not pulled tight, arms relaxed.
Sleeve — from the centre back of the neck, across the shoulder, down to the wrist bone with the arm slightly bent.
Shoulder — across the back from the edge of one shoulder to the other. This is the number that decides your size, so measure it twice.
The easier way
Bring in a shirt that fits you well — even an old one — and we will measure it flat and match you across brands in a couple of minutes. It is more accurate than measuring your body at home, and it accounts for how you actually like a shirt to sit.
Once we have your measurements we keep them on file, so future purchases and alterations take minutes rather than a fitting session, whether you are buying ready-made or commissioning bespoke.