In short: For the right shirt size you only need three measurements: chest, shoulder width and sleeve length. Measure a well-fitting shirt from your wardrobe and compare the values with our size chart. Between two sizes? For relaxed summer shirts take the larger one, for slimmer cuts the smaller one.
Nothing ruins a great shirt as reliably as the wrong size: too tight and it pulls across the chest, too big and it looks borrowed. So that your Halawuki shirt fits at the very first try, here's how to find your perfect size in five minutes – without measuring-tape acrobatics.
Method 1: Measure your favourite shirt (easiest)
The most reliable way: take a shirt that already fits you perfectly, lay it flat and buttoned on a table and measure these points:
- Chest width: Measure from armpit to armpit and double the value
- Shoulder width: From shoulder seam to shoulder seam across the back
- Length: From the highest point at the collar to the hem
- Sleeve length: From the shoulder seam to the end of the sleeve
Compare these values with the product measurements in our shop – done. This method is more accurate than measuring your body because it captures the fit you actually like.
Method 2: Measure your body
No comparison shirt at hand? Then measure directly on the body (ideally with someone's help):
- Chest circumference: Place the measuring tape horizontally around the widest part of your chest. Breathe normally, don't puff up your chest.
- Neck circumference (relevant for shirts with a close collar): Place the tape loosely around your neck; one finger should fit underneath.
- Sleeve length: With your arm slightly bent, measure from the middle of the neck over the shoulder to the wrist.
Size chart (guide values)
| Size | Chest (body) | Shirt width (flat) | Shoulder width |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 88–96 cm | 52–54 cm | 44–45 cm |
| M | 96–104 cm | 55–57 cm | 46–47 cm |
| L | 104–112 cm | 58–60 cm | 48–49 cm |
| XL | 112–120 cm | 61–63 cm | 50–51 cm |
| XXL | 120–128 cm | 64–66 cm | 52–53 cm |
Note: exact measurements can vary slightly by model and cut – you'll find the model-specific chart on every product page.
How should a colourful shirt actually fit?
Colourful shirts – especially summery print models – are deliberately cut and worn a little looser than classic business shirts. The fit checklist:
- Shoulders: The shoulder seam ends where your shoulder meets your arm. This is the most important point – no tailor can fix shoulders.
- Chest: When buttoned, the fabric must not pull; a flat hand should fit between shirt and chest.
- Length: Worn loose, the shirt ends around mid-crotch – long enough not to show your stomach when you raise your arms, short enough not to look like a dress.
- Short sleeves: Ideally end around the middle of the upper arm.
- Movement test: Cross your arms and stretch them forward – nothing should pull or strain.
Between two sizes? Here's how to decide
- Relaxed summer/resort cut: Take the larger size. These shirts live from a relaxed, airy fit.
- Slim or fitted model: Take the smaller size if you want a defined look.
- For layering over a T-shirt: Rather the larger size so there's room underneath.
- Mind the fabric: Linen and viscose drape softer and flowier – a size up is more forgiving here than with firm cotton.
The 3 most common fit mistakes
- Buying too big "to be safe": A shirt that's too wide quickly looks shapeless. Compare the measurements instead of adding a size by default.
- Only looking at the letter size: An "M" is not the same at every brand. Centimetres are the only reliable language.
- Judging the fit standing still in front of the mirror: Move! Sit down, raise your arms. A shirt has to fit your life, not just the fitting-room pose.
Conclusion
Finding the right shirt size takes five minutes: measure your favourite shirt flat, compare the values with the size chart, and between sizes decide by cut and how you like to wear it. Your new colourful shirt will fit from day one – and you'll save yourself the returns.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions
How do I measure my shirt size without a measuring tape?
Use a charging cable or a piece of string, mark the length and measure it with a ruler. Even simpler: roughly measure a well-fitting shirt with an A4 sheet of paper (29.7 cm long).
Do colourful summer shirts run large or small?
Summery print shirts are usually cut deliberately looser (relaxed or regular fit). When in doubt, always compare the centimetre measurements on the product page.
What if the shirt doesn't fit after all?
No problem – you can exchange it easily within the return period. Tip: measure the shirt before sending it back and order the right size based on the measurements right away.
Will the shirt shrink in the wash?
With the right care (30 °C, no dryer) minimally or not at all. Natural fibres like cotton and linen can shrink 2–3% if washed too hot – one more reason to wash cold.