Dress shirts are sized by neck and sleeve length in inches, such as 15.5/33. Measure around the base of the neck where the collar sits and add about half an inch for comfort. Measure sleeve length from the center back of your neck, over the shoulder and down to the wrist. Then choose a fit: slim, tailored or classic, based on your build.
Dress shirts are sized differently from casual shirts. Two measurements matter most.
Measure your neck
- Wrap a soft tape around the base of your neck, where a collar sits.
- Keep one finger under the tape.
- Round up to the nearest half inch. That’s your neck size.
Measure your sleeve
- Start at the center back of your neck.
- Run the tape across the top of the shoulder and down the arm with the arm slightly bent.
- Stop at the wrist bone. That’s your sleeve length.
Common sizes
| Neck | Typical sleeve range |
|---|---|
| 14.5 | 32 to 33 |
| 15 | 32 to 34 |
| 15.5 | 32 to 35 |
| 16 | 33 to 35 |
| 16.5 | 34 to 36 |
| 17 | 34 to 36 |
Always check the brand’s chart.
Choose a fit
- Slim / extra slim: close through the chest and waist.
- Tailored / modern: some shaping.
- Classic / regular: roomier, traditional.
Fit checklist
- Two fingers fit inside the buttoned collar
- Shoulder seams at the edge of the shoulders
- No pulling between buttons
- Cuffs reach the wrist bone
- Long enough to stay tucked when you raise your arms
Fabric
Poplin is smooth and dressy, oxford cloth is sturdier and casual, twill drapes well and resists wrinkles, and non-iron finishes save time.
Common questions
What does 15.5/33 mean on a dress shirt?
A 15.5-inch neck and a 33-inch sleeve length. Some shirts list a range, such as 32/33, to fit both.
How tight should a shirt collar be?
You should be able to slide two fingers between the buttoned collar and your neck.
How should a dress shirt fit?
Shoulder seams at the edge of your shoulders, no pulling across the buttons, cuffs ending at the wrist bone, and enough length to stay tucked in.