Determining Your Suit Size

Below you will find helpful information to assist you with determining your suit size.  If you need additional help, please feel free to call us TOLL FREE at 1-877-426-3679.

How to Measure for a Man's Suit - 3 Important Measurements

A suit jacket size is determined by measuring the thickest part of a man's chest in inches. First , begin by measuring just under your arms, across the chest, and over the shoulder blades. When measuring, it is important to keep the tape measure parallel to the floor. This will help to assure you are measuring the thickest part of the chest area.  Second , it is also helpful to take an overarm measurement.   To take this measurement place the tape measure over the outside of the arms across the thickest part of the chest.  Once you have this measurement subtract 7 inches to receive a corresponding chest measurement.  Then , compare this measurement with the chest measurement and take the larger of the two.  Third, trouser sizes are determined by measuring the waist at the belt line. In most cases, the belt line will be found just on top of your hip bones.

Size, Cut, & Specialty of a Man's Suit

In general terms, the difference between your chest size and trouser waist size (aka “drop”) should fall within the range of 2 inches to 8 inches. Based upon the “drop” you can determine the appropriate model for you build: standard cut, athletic cut, or portly cut. Standard Cut suits typically have a 6 inch difference between the chest measurement and the trouser size, i.e. a size 42 regular suit jacket will have a size 36 waist trouser. Shop On-line for Men's Suits  Athletic Cut suits have an 8 inch difference between the chest measurement and the trouser size, i.e. a size 42 regular athletic cut suit jacket will have a size 34 waist trouser. Shop On-line for Athletic Cut Suits  Portly Cut suits have a 4 inch difference between the chest measurement and the trouser size, i.e. a size 42 regular portly suit jacket will have a size 38 waist trouser. Shop On-Line for Portly Suits  All cuts come is short, regular, long and in some cases extra-long. Generally, a man's height will determine the specialty:  5'4" and shorter = extra short; 5'5" to 5' 7" = short; 5' 8" to 5' 11" = regular; 6' to 6' 2" = long; 6' 3" and taller = extra long

Big Difference Between Jacket Size and Trouser Size?

Is the difference between your chest size and trouser waist size is more than 8 inches?  Or, do you find the sizes you need in between two different types of suit cuts?  If so, you are a good candidate for suit separates or our Build Your Own Suit Program!  With suit separates you choose the coat size and the trouser size to create a suit that fits your body.   With our Build Your Own Suit program, you can select the specific coat  and trouser model, cut, and specialty that best fits your body and styling taste level.   For those individuals seeking complete, individualized look visit our custom made to measure department for more details.

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