Regarding shirt collar size, should I err on the side of comfort (looser) or presentation (tighter)?

[HPT704]

I'm debating between a 16" and 16.5" neck, obviously a small difference, but I'm wondering if it makes a difference in presentation to others. The white shirt is 16" and the light blue is 16.5" . Both are pre-wash, so I'm wondering about shrinkage too.

I kinda obsess about small details, but if I'm overthinking it, just let me know.

 

[papado]

I'm debating between a 16" and 16.5" neck, obviously a small difference, but I'm wondering if it makes a difference in presentation to others. The white shirt is 16" and the light blue is 16.5" . Both are pre-wash, so I'm wondering about shrinkage too.

I kinda obsess about small details, but if I'm overthinking it, just let me know.

The 16.5 is too large as when it's buttoned up you're already seeing gaps and space between your neck and the collar. The white doesn't look too small but I'm assuming you're asking the question because you feel the 16 is too snug?

I prefer my collar more secure/not having the gaps you encounter when you're wearing a size too large.

 

[HPT704]

The 16.5 is too large as when it's buttoned up you're already seeing gaps and space between your neck and the collar. The white doesn't look too small but I'm assuming you're asking the question because you feel the 16 is too snug?

I prefer my collar more secure/not having the gaps you encounter when you're wearing a size too large.

The 16" is snuggish, but not overly so. It just feels like there's not a lot of room for error, I'm a bit concerned about cotton shrinkage, temperature change, ect.

But you think the gaps in the necks with the 16.5" are noticeably enough to make a difference (even with a tie)? Thank you for your feedback.

 

[breakaway01]

It’s impossible for us to know how much your collar will or will not shrink, of course. You should be able to insert 1-2 fingers easily between the buttoned collar and your neck. I agree, the 16.5 looks too big unless it shrinks significantly in the wash.

 

[Phileas Fogg]

Assuming the 16” collar is not choking you, then I’d go with that one.

As for shrinkage, their are too many factors that can influence that, so it’s hard to predict. It looks as though you still have a bit of slack with the 16” so you should be good.

Personally, I’ve not really had issues with it. Of course, I wash my shirts in cold water on gentle, rack dry and iron myself so this may be why.

 

[Daniel Hakimi]

I don't hate the 16.5 -- the gap is visible, but it's not big, and comfort does matter.

But if you're not thrilled about either of these, look for a different brand. Natural variation between brands can be big enough to make a difference here. An eighth of an inch might make a noticeable difference here.

 

[papado]

If you're truly between sizes I may almost argue you should try a maker which makes shirts in euro (CM as opposed inches) sizes are the 41cm is a tad larger than 16" but not large enough to be at he 16.5 inch. That may actually be a nice middle ground depending on the fit of the rest of the shirt.

 

[HPT704]

Assuming the 16” collar is not choking you, then I’d go with that one.

As for shrinkage, their are too many factors that can influence that, so it’s hard to predict. It looks as though you still have a bit of slack with the 16” so you should be good.

Personally, I’ve not really had issues with it. Of course, I wash my shirts in cold water on gentle, rack dry and iron myself so this may be why.

Does dry cleaning tend to cause shrinkage?

 

[HPT704]

If you're truly between sizes I may almost argue you should try a maker which makes shirts in euro (CM as opposed inches) sizes are the 41cm is a tad larger than 16" but not large enough to be at he 16.5 inch. That may actually be a nice middle ground depending on the fit of the rest of the shirt.

True, but I wanted to grab a couple of Brooks Brothers shirts on sale before they (potentially) go out of business. Just trying to make a decision before my return window closes. Other than my concerns about the neck, they fit very well and are comfy.

 

[Phileas Fogg]

Does dry cleaning tend to cause shrinkage?

again, there are many factors that can result in shrinkage, both external to the shirt as well as intrinsic.

 

[Daniel Hakimi]

If you're truly between sizes I may almost argue you should try a maker which makes shirts in euro (CM as opposed inches) sizes are the 41cm is a tad larger than 16" but not large enough to be at he 16.5 inch. That may actually be a nice middle ground depending on the fit of the rest of the shirt.

Different brands within the US might vary this much. Hell, with bad QA, one US brand might vary this much. And some brands use 1/3 inch increments for some of their sizes (although that might be a conversion from CM).

 

[Mr G]

Indeed you will experience some shrinkage in the shirt to minimize that I strongly recommend that you do not place your dress shirts in the dryer rather hang them up to air dry now to address your neck size always select the size most comfortable don’t go to a half size up because you only create a gap that is unsightly and throws your necktie knot symmetry off