Local Legends Journal
How to Choose the Right Unisex Graphic Tee Size
Lay a favourite T-shirt flat, measure straight across the chest from armpit to armpit and measure the body from the highest shoulder point to the hem. Compare those numbers with the product size guide instead of relying on the size letter alone.
T-shirt sizing is frustrating because a medium in one brand can feel like a large or small in another. The words unisex, regular and relaxed describe a general shape, not one universal set of measurements.
The most reliable online method is to compare the garment with a shirt that already fits the way you want.
What you need
- A T-shirt that fits comfortably
- A tape measure
- A flat surface
- The size guide on the product page
Do not measure the shirt while someone is wearing it. Fabric curves and stretches around the body, which makes the result less consistent.
How to measure shirt width
Button or smooth the shirt into its natural shape and lay it flat without stretching. Measure in a straight line from one armpit seam to the other.
This flat width is not the same as a full body chest measurement. Compare it with the same type of measurement in the product guide. If a guide lists garment width, use the flat-shirt number. If it lists body circumference, follow that guide’s instructions instead.
How to measure shirt length
Measure from the highest point of the shoulder, near the collar, straight down to the bottom hem. This shows whether the new tee is likely to sit shorter or longer than the shirt you know.
Length matters when the wearer is tall, prefers to tuck the shirt or dislikes a long relaxed fit.
What relaxed unisex fit means
A relaxed unisex tee generally has a straighter body and more room than a close fitted style. That does not mean everyone should automatically size down. The intended look, shoulder width and the wearer’s preferred ease all matter.
Use the known shirt as the benchmark:
- Choose a similar measurement for a familiar fit.
- Choose slightly more width for an easier, looser fit.
- Avoid sizing down purely because the label says unisex.
- If between sizes, consider which matters more: extra room or a neater silhouette.
Buying a graphic tee as a surprise gift
Check a shirt the recipient wears often and record both its size label and measurements. The measurements are the useful part; the label helps only as supporting information.
If you cannot measure, look at the return and reprint policy before ordering. Do not remove tags or wash the shirt until the fit has been checked.
Remember natural variation
Garments can have small manufacturing variations, and cotton may change if it is washed or dried outside the care instructions. A size chart is a strong guide, not a guarantee of millimetre-perfect duplication.
Frequently asked questions
Should I size down in a unisex T-shirt?
Not automatically. Compare a shirt you own with the product measurements and choose according to the fit you want.
What if my measurements sit between two sizes?
Choose the larger size for more ease or the smaller size for a neater fit, provided neither measurement is too restrictive. Length can help break the tie.
Is shirt width the same as chest circumference?
No. Flat garment width is measured across one side of the laid-flat shirt. Always check how the specific size guide defines its measurement.
Should I wash the shirt before checking the fit?
No. Check the fit first and follow the returns and reprints information before washing or altering the item.
Use this method before choosing from all Local Legends graphic tees or compare designs for electricians, anglers, dads, dog people and car lovers.
