Sizing

Important Information in regard to Sizing
Vintage sizing varies from modern day, straight off the rack sizing. Seems we’ve “supersized” over the decades. That explains why there aren’t many XL and UP sizes in authentic vintage clothing, because it’s very RARE to find because those sizes were uncommon back then. When we are lucky enough to get something in the RARE sizes, sorry guys… but the vintage rarity factor means it’s gonna cost you a bit more.

SHIRTS, SUIT JACKETS & COATS: How to Determine Your Size in Vintage
If a mens shirt is labeled or tagged a specific size, it may fall into another size category based upon how we measure. It’s not unusual to have a vintage shirt tagged a LARGE that we will call a Medium (and once in a while, we find the opposite!).

We created a general sizing guide for shirts with basic chest measurements as follows:

 

Our Modern Day Sizing Chart for Men’s Shirts, Jackets & Coats CHEST MEASUREMENTS ARE SHOWN IN INCHES
XS	S	M	L	XL	XXL & up
32-34	35-37	38-41	42-45	46-48	49+

OUR BEST ADVICE: When buying a shirt, jacket or coat - DO NOT GO SOLELY BY THE GENERAL SIZE CHART ABOVE! (←- this is important)

Compare the measurements of the individual item you are interested in against a dress shirt (alternatively a jacket or coat if appropriate) you own that fits you. The illustration below shows you how to measure for the best possible fit.

We measure all of our shirts, jackets and coats while they are laying FLAT on the outside of the garment. We list measurements as follows in the illustration above: A Armpit to Armpit = double that number and you will get the approximate chest size as noted in the Sizing Chart above; if an item is fitted we note it as such and may take additional measurements. B Shoulder to Shoulder = shoulder seam to shoulder seam. C Shoulder to Cuff = top of the shoulder seam to the end of the cuff. Or, top of the shoulder seam to the end on a short sleeve shirt. The Length D is measured on the back of the shirt in the center from just under the collar on the seam to the bottom seam of the garment.

ADDITIONAL NOTES REGARDING MEN’S VINTAGE SHIRT SIZING
1950s mens shirts are generally cut shorter in the overall length. Why? Men’s pants in the 50s were worn much higher in the waist (longer rise) than modern day mens slacks. 100% polyester and nylon blend shirts have some stretch in the fabric and are meant to be worn form fitting or snug. You don’t have to wear a 70s mens shirt skin tight, but it’s specific to the era if you dare!