Not sure whether you are a 40 or a 42? This formal shirt size chart for India helps you pick the right size in S–XXL or in inches (38–46), and shows how to measure yourself at home in five minutes.
Sizes change from brand to brand, so always check the brand’s own chart before ordering. If you are still choosing a brand, start with our list of the best formal shirt brands in India.
Formal Shirt Size Chart for Indian Men
In India, a formal shirt size usually means the chest size in inches (38, 40, 42…). Letter sizes (S, M, L) map to those numbers. Use the table as a starting point.
| Letter size | Shirt size (inches) | Chest (inches) | Collar (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 38 | 38 | 15 |
| M | 40 | 40 | 15.5–16 |
| L | 42 | 42 | 16.5 |
| XL | 44 | 44 | 17 |
| XXL | 46 | 46 | 17.5–18 |
Note: A formal shirt has a few inches of room built in. If your chest measures 38″, a size 40 shirt gives a regular fit. A slim fit may run closer to your body measurement.
How to Measure Your Size at Home
You need a soft tape (the tailor kind, not a steel one) and a mirror. Wear a thin T-shirt and stand relaxed.
1. Chest
Wrap the tape under your armpits and across the fullest part of your chest. Keep it level and flat. Breathe normally and don’t pull it tight. This is your main size.
2. Collar (neck)
Measure around the base of your neck, where a collar sits. Slide one finger under the tape so the shirt isn’t choking you at 4 pm. Formal shirts are worn buttoned, so collar fit matters more than in casual wear.
3. Sleeve length
Place the tape at the centre of the back of your neck, run it over the shoulder and down to your wrist bone, with your arm slightly bent. Indian formal shirts commonly come in about 39″ or 40″ full sleeve, but this changes by brand.
4. Shirt length
Measure from the top of your shoulder to where you want the hem. A formal shirt worn tucked in should cover the hips so it doesn’t pop out when you sit.
5. Easy shortcut: measure a shirt you already own
Lay your best-fitting formal shirt flat. Measure across the chest from armpit to armpit and double it. Compare this with the brand’s chart.
Fit Matters as Much as Size
The same size 40 can feel very different across fits.
Slim fit: Cut closer to the body. Good for lean builds. Gets tight when sitting or with a belly.
Regular fit: More room in chest and waist. Better for Chennai heat, since air can move.
Tailored/Classic fit: Sits between the two.
In humid weather, choose the regular fit in breathable cotton. A shirt that clings will show sweat patches faster.
Size Chart Mistakes to Avoid
Ordering by letter size only. An M at one brand can be a 39 at another. Check the chest in inches.
Ignoring fabric. 100% cotton can shrink slightly after the first wash. Poly-cotton shrinks less. If you are between sizes, go one up in pure cotton.
Measuring over thick clothes. This adds an inch or more.
Buying slim fit without trying. Check if you can raise your arms and sit comfortably.
For help with fabric, fit and collars, see our formal shirt buying guide and the guide to different types of formal shirts for men.
Frequently Asked Questions
Size 40 means a 40-inch chest, usually equal to M in most Indian brands. Check the brand’s chart, since M can be 39 or 40.
Most brands treat 42 as L and 44 as XL. A few use 42 as XL in slim fits, so confirm on the size chart.
The collar should allow one finger, the shoulder seam should sit on your shoulder bone, the sleeve should end at the wrist bone, and the chest shouldn’t pull at the buttons.
Size up only if you are between sizes, if the fabric is 100% cotton, or if you prefer a looser fit for summer.
Conclusion
Measure your chest, collar and sleeve once, note them in your phone, and compare them with each brand’s chart before buying. Once you know your size, pick from the best formal shirt brands in India.
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