How to choose the right size vintage shirt
Vintage shirts are designed to be worn looser than modern slim-fit styles. This guide will help you choose the right size for optimal comfort, authentic proportions, and a truly vintage look with HabilleurJean!
Why vintage shirts fit differently
Unlike slim or fitted shirts, vintage shirts are designed for comfort and freedom of movement. The shoulders may be slightly broader, the chest is fuller, and the overall length is more generous. This isn't a sizing issue, but rather an intentional style choice.
How to read our size guide
All measurements on our product pages are taken with the garment laid flat and are expressed in centimeters. If you are between sizes, we recommend choosing the larger size to maintain the relaxed and comfortable vintage fit.
Essential measures
1. Collar / neckband
Measuring the collar is essential if you plan to wear the shirt with a tie; otherwise, it is optional.
If you wear the shirt fully buttoned with a tie, the collar should be comfortable, not tight. You should be able to slip a finger between your neck and the collar.
If you're wearing an open-necked shirt (without a tie), a slightly wider collar is perfectly acceptable and in keeping with the vintage aesthetic. Many vintage shirts are, in fact, designed to be worn open at the collar, offering a relaxed and natural style.
To measure your neck circumference , use a tape measure and place it loosely around your neck. Slide a finger between the tape measure and your neck to ensure optimal comfort, then note the measurement.
For a shirt, we recommend adding up to 1 cm to this measurement in order to compare it to our size chart and obtain a comfortable fit, true to the vintage spirit.
2. Chest (armpit to armpit)
This is an important measurement, as it determines the overall volume and comfort of the shirt. For a vintage fit, we recommend an ease of approximately 12 to 18 cm compared to your chest measurement.
To measure the chest over the garment, measure from one armpit to the other, from left to right (see image at the top of the article).
3. Shoulder width
Shoulder width plays a key role in the drape of a vintage shirt. The shoulder seam can extend slightly beyond the natural shoulder bone for an authentic and relaxed look. This is perfectly normal: vintage style shirts are worn looser than modern ones.
To measure the shoulders, measure the shoulder seam from left to right (see image at the top of the article).
4. Total length
Length greatly influences the overall silhouette. Vintage shirts are generally longer, allowing them to be worn tucked in or out without throwing off the balance of the outfit.
To measure the total length, measure from the top of the shirt to the bottom (see image at the top of the article).
Additional (optional) measures
Sleeve length
The sleeve length is primarily given as a guide. In vintage style, slightly longer sleeves are perfectly acceptable, especially if you like to roll them up (see the image at the top of the article for the measurement).
Waist
The size measurement is optional and given primarily for reference.
On vintage shirts, the waist is intentionally neither fitted nor tailored. A straight or slightly boxy cut is part of the original design and contributes to a comfortable and relaxed silhouette.
If you're looking for an authentic, loose-fitting vintage look, waist measurement shouldn't be the deciding factor. A little extra room at the waist is normal and enhances comfort and freedom of movement.
If you prefer a slightly cleaner line while still maintaining a vintage feel, you can use this measurement as a guide, but it should never be restrictive!
See the image at the top of the article for the measurement.
Final advice
The best way to choose your size is to compare these measurements with those of a shirt you already own and like to wear loose.