Ordering a T-shirt online should feel fun, not stressful.
But if you’ve ever opened a package and realized “Oh no… this is way too small (or huge)”, you’re not alone.
The good news? Once you understand how online T-shirt sizing really works, choosing the right size becomes simple—and you won’t have to deal with awkward returns or unworn shirts sitting in your closet.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through step by step how to pick the perfect T-shirt size when shopping online.
Why Online T-Shirt Sizing Feels So Confusing
If you’ve ever wondered:
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“Why am I a Medium in one brand and a Large in another?”
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“Why do unisex T-shirts fit so differently from women’s fitted shirts?”
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“Why does my new shirt shrink after the first wash?”
…it’s not your fault.
Different brands used:
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Different size charts
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Different fit styles (classic, slim, oversized, boxy…)
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Different fabrics (100% cotton vs. cotton-blend, etc.)
That’s why the label “M” or “L” doesn’t tell the whole story.
To get a reliable fit, you need to look at measurements, not just the letter size.
Step 1: Always Check the Size Chart (Not Just S, M, L)
Before you click “Add to cart”, take a moment to check the size chart on the product page.
Most good online stores will show:
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Chest width (measured flat, armpit to armpit)
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Body length (from the highest point on the shoulder down to the hem)
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Sometimes sleeve length or shoulder width
How to read it correctly
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Ignore the label at first (S/M/L)
Focus on the actual measurements in inches or centimeters. -
Compare those measurements to a T-shirt you already own
This is the most accurate way to know how it will fit on you. -
Check if the fit is described
Words like relaxed, oversized, slim, or classic matter a lot.
If the brand offers a “fits true to size” note or “size up for a relaxed look”, read that carefully—it can save you from a bad fit.
Step 2: Measure a T-Shirt You Already Love
Instead of guessing your body measurements, here’s an easier trick:
Measure a T-shirt you already love the fit of, then compare it to the retailer’s size chart.
How to measure your favorite T-shirt
Lay your T-shirt flat on a table and smooth out any wrinkles. Then:
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Chest width
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Measure straight across from armpit to armpit.
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Write it down (for example: 20 inches / 51 cm).
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Body length
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Measure from the highest point of the shoulder (near the collar) straight down to the bottom hem.
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Note it (for example: 28 inches / 71 cm).
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Optional: Shoulder and sleeve
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Shoulder: from seam to seam across the upper back.
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Sleeve: from the shoulder seam to the end of the sleeve.
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Now, go back to the size chart:
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Find the size whose chest and length measurements are closest to your favorite T-shirt.
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If you’re between two sizes, think about whether you like a fitted or looser look.
This method is simple, fast, and much more accurate than guessing “I think I’m a Medium.”
Step 3: Understand Different Fit Types (Unisex, Women’s, Oversized…)
Not all T-shirts are designed to fit the same way—even if they say the same size on the tag.
1. Unisex / Men’s Fit
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Usually straighter and longer in the body.
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Shoulders may be a bit wider.
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On women, unisex shirts often feel a bit more relaxed or boxy.
Tip:
If you’re used to women’s fitted T-shirts and switch to unisex, you may want to size down if you prefer a more fitted look—or stay true to size for a relaxed streetwear vibe.
2. Women’s Fitted / Slim Fit
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Slightly tapered at the waist, following the body shape.
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Sleeves and overall length may be shorter than unisex.
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Great if you like a more tailored silhouette.
Tip:
If you don’t like clothes that hug your curves too closely, you may want to size up by one in women’s fitted styles.
3. Relaxed / Oversized Fit
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Intentionally roomy in the chest and body.
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Often styled to be worn with leggings, biker shorts, or baggy jeans.
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The size chart might show larger measurements than normal—for example, a Medium oversized tee may fit bigger than a standard Large.
Tip:
Check product photos. If the shirt looks bigger on the model, that’s intentional. Go true to size for the designer’s look, or size down if you want it less baggy.
Step 4: Don’t Forget Fabric & Shrinkage
Fabric matters more than most people think.
100% Cotton
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Soft, breathable, great for everyday wear.
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May shrink slightly after the first wash, especially with hot water or high-heat drying.
Tip:
If you’re between two sizes and the tee is 100% cotton, you may want to choose the slightly larger size, especially if you use a dryer.
Cotton Blends (e.g., 60% cotton, 40% polyester)
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Less likely to shrink.
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Often lighter and smoother to the touch.
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Holds its shape well over time.
Tip:
If the shirt is a cotton blend, you can usually go true to size without worrying too much about shrinkage.
Heavyweight vs. Lightweight T-Shirts
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Heavyweight fabric (thicker) may feel more structured and slightly tighter.
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Lightweight fabric drapes more and might feel looser even in the same size.
Always check the product description for fabric weight or thickness if comfort and drape matter to you.
Step 5: Style Preference – Do You Want Fitted, Classic, or Relaxed?
Even with the same body measurements, style preference changes everything.
Ask yourself:
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Do you like your tees to hug your body? → Choose a slimmer fit or stay true to size in fitted styles.
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Do you prefer a classic, not too tight, not too loose look? → Go true to size in regular/unisex styles.
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Do you love the oversized, streetwear vibe? → Stick to your normal unisex size or go one size up.
There’s no “right” answer—only what feels right for your body and your style.
Quick Cheat Sheet: How to Decide Your Online T-Shirt Size
When you’re ready to order, use this quick process:
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Pick a T-shirt you already love the fit of.
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Measure the chest width and length.
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Open the size chart of the shirt you want to buy.
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Choose the size whose measurements are closest to your favorite tee.
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Check:
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Fit type (unisex, women’s, oversized?)
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Fabric (100% cotton vs. blend?)
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Any notes like “runs small” or “relaxed fit”.
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If you’re between two sizes:
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Want more fitted → choose the smaller size.
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Want more relaxed/future shrinkage safety → choose the larger size.
FAQ: Common Online T-Shirt Sizing Questions
1. What if I’m between two sizes on the chart?
Think about:
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How you like to wear your T-shirts (tight vs. loose)
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Fabric type (100% cotton = may shrink slightly)
As a general rule:
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Prefer fitted → go down one size
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Prefer comfort/layering → go up one size
2. Should I size up for hoodies and sweatshirts too?
For hoodies, many people like a slightly looser fit for comfort.
If you prefer that cozy feel, you can:
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Go true to size for a regular fit
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Or size up one for a more relaxed, streetwear look
Always check if the hoodie is unisex, oversized, or fitted—it makes a difference.
3. How can I buy a T-shirt as a gift without asking for someone’s size?
Here are some safe options:
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For men: unisex T-shirts in L are often a safe, slightly relaxed choice for average builds.
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For women: unisex M or women’s L can work for a lot of body types if you’re unsure.
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If the store offers gift cards or exchange-friendly policies, that’s a bonus.
Still, if you can casually ask their height/weight or what size they normally wear in other brands, that’s even better.
Final Thoughts: The Best T-Shirt Is the One That Fits You
Great design and high-quality fabric are important—but the perfect fit is what makes you actually want to wear a T-shirt over and over again.
When you:
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Use a T-shirt you already own as your measurement reference
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Read the size chart carefully
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Understand fit types and fabrics
…you turn online shopping from a guessing game into a confident, repeatable process.
If you’re ready to put this guide into action, check out our latest collection of T-shirts here: Explore our AL T-shirt collection here.