How much larger should shirt chest measurement be than chest measurement on a slim fit shirt?

You'd be surprised how little difference there is between some makers slim fit and normal fit. 2cm perhaps?

I think he's asking how much bigger the shirt should be when compared to his chest measurement. Not between shirts.

I'm not sure if he's asking about an ideal world with a custom made shirt or an OTR.

I too would like to know if there is a general guide/ consensus on this, obvioulsy it will be different for everybody but still a relevant question.

Measure the shirt flat on a table, shirt has every button buttoned. Measure across the chest at the bottom of the armhole. Make sure the shirt is stretched out flat and not bunched up anywhere.

If you have a 40" chest and add 3" to the circumference of the shirt chest you will get 21.5" when you measure the shirt the way described. Total measure is 43", this is a very "snug" fit. This may be way too tight for some or just snug to others. Depends on your tolerance for a close fit. 40" chest + 2" would be a very tight fit. Not recommended. A deep breadth would pop a button.

40 + 4" is a trim fit. Measuring across the chest will be 22"

40 + 5" is normal fit by today's standards. Even + 6" would be right for some.
Those big baggy BB shirts are something like +8" or sometimes more in the chest.

Works the same for the waist except don't use your trouser waist measurement. Use the measurement over any love handles. The largest part of your waist above the trouser waist. if you use your trouser measurement, the shirt won't fit.

If you want a good fit without much extra fabric but not over trim try +5" on the chest and +4" on the waist. Again, how comfortable these formulas work depend on the individual and your body type. What is loose or tight is very subjective to each individual.

Nice post Chris! Very instructive.

Thanks for this Chris; really helpful.

If I may, a followup: my understanding is that the answer to this general question (chest clearance) is a bit larger for a shirt than for a jacket (which should generally be 2-4" for a good fit?). If I understand this right, is this simply because the shirt needs to accommodate a wider range of movement (sitting, standing, etc.) than a jacket (which can be unbuttoned)? If I have it wrong, please correct.

Good info. It made me measure a few shirts out of curiosity.

My fitted shirts (BBBF) are mostly +3" and they look and feel just right to me. The slimmest one is +2.5" and I can't see wearing anything tighter. The armholes on that shirt make their presence known to me.

tremendously helpful thread!!

Thank you very much Mr Despos- much appreciated.

I know its stupid question but this measurement you take with inches or centimeters?

They are all talking inches