Bamboo T-shirt for men and how long it should be

Short answer: A T-shirt should stay tucked in when you raise your arms above your head. If it is shorter, your stomach shows every time you stretch or lean forward. If it is too long, it looks too big even when the width fits.

The arms up test

Raise both arms straight above your head while wearing the shirt. If it pulls out of your waistband, it is too short. This is the most important test, because it shows how the shirt behaves when you move during the day. Check both front and back, as the back often rides up the most. See bamboo T-shirts for men.

Too long is wrong too

A shirt that reaches far down over your seat looks too big, even if the width fits. It gathers in folds at the hips and gives a heavy silhouette. As a rule of thumb, it should end around the middle of your fly, covering the waistband without hanging over the pockets.

The shoulder seam is the second measure

The shoulder seam should sit on the shoulder joint, where the arm begins. If it hangs down onto the upper arm, the shirt is too big, however the length fits. If the seam sits in on the shoulder, it is too narrow and will pull when you move your arms. Check it in a mirror.

Body type and length

If you are tall with a long torso, a regular T-shirt may be too short even when the width fits. Sizing up or choosing a longer cut can help. If you are shorter, the regular length may be too long, and a smaller size can work better as long as the width is still right.

Shrinkage in length

Jersey shrinks mostly in length and less in width. A shirt that just fits in the shop can end up too short after tumble drying. Wash according to the label and hang the shirt to dry if you want to keep the length. Gently pull it into shape while damp. Read more about washing and care.

Under a shirt or jumper

If you wear the T-shirt as a base layer under a shirt, it should be long enough to stay tucked in all day. A short T-shirt rides up and bunches at the waistband, which is uncomfortable and looks untidy. Choose a close fitting style with a good length so it lies smooth under the outer layer.

Long sleeves follow the same rule

The same length rule applies to long sleeved styles. Here the sleeve length is the third measure: the sleeve should reach the wrist with your arm down and not ride far up when you reach forward. A slightly long sleeve can be pushed up, but a short one cannot be lengthened. See bamboo long sleeve T-shirt for men.

Measure a shirt that fits

If you have a T-shirt that fits exactly as you like, lay it flat and measure the length from the shoulder seam to the hem. Compare with the size chart for the model you are considering. Then you know before ordering whether the new shirt will be longer or shorter.

Soft fabric and fit

Soft bamboo viscose falls closer to the body than a stiff fabric. That makes the length more visible, because the shirt follows the lines of your body. A good length gives a calm look where the shirt neither pulls nor hangs. It is comfortable and neat for everyday wear.

Frequently asked questions

How long should a T-shirt be?

Long enough to stay tucked in when you raise your arms above your head. As a rule of thumb, it should end around the middle of your fly.

Where should the shoulder seam sit?

On the shoulder joint, where the arm begins. If it hangs onto the upper arm, the shirt is too big, and if it sits in on the shoulder, it is too narrow.