Shirt Size horror

[ArMiXiA]

Hello, complete newbie here at SF.

Just had a question about shirt sizes.

I got measured as a 32/33 from a local tailor so I started buying shirts that were 32/33. Now more than half of these are too short in sleeve length where even with my arms down the cuffs barely touch my wrist line. So i bought some of the same shirt in 34/35 which are just TOO long to the point where I look like I'm wearing inspector gadget's shirt.

The local tailor charges $15-16 a shirt to shorten the sleeves of a 34/35. I am at an entry level position and cant really afford the things most of you wear. I've been looking at the sales forum but am scared that the shirt just wont fit. Any advice on where to shop on a lower end budget? H&M?

Thanks again !

 

[DocHolliday]

Don't buy 34/35. Look for shirts with specific sleeve lengths -- sounds like you're a 33 or 34. First thing to do is find out which. I'd suggest you go get measured by a tailor, rather than a salesman. If you're in between, go with the longer one. But if you're really a 33.5, you'll be better off with a 34 than with a 34/35.

Shrinkage, to some degree, is unavoidable, but this will be less of an issue with better quality shirts. Also, don't dry the shirts on high heat. If you're washing at home, it's best to dry them only until damp, if at all, and then let them dry on a hanger/use an iron.

Also, you if you have small wrists, you can have the sleeve buttons moved in a bit so the cuff won't bag into your palm when new.

 

[jmix1]

I feel your pain. I'm a 33.5, so I rarely find RTW dress shirts that fit in the sleeve. The 32/33 are usually closer to a 32, the 34/35 closer to a 35. How is this sizing acceptable anyways? We wouldn't stand for 34/35 waist and 30/31 inseam trousers.
Although you're on a budget, paying the extra 15 bucks to have a quality shirt altered will pay off in the long run.

 

[ArMiXiA]

Sounds like I may head that direction. Wow thanks for the quick replies guys, I figured a lot of people would have this problem. Now what type of stores should I be shopping in to achieve those single size shirts. I am in NYC (I feel like I'm sinning by saying this) I moved here for my job and am new. Keep in mind though I cant really afford to buy $100 shirts yet...Entry level, saving up for a condo with the girlfriend. If anyone can point me in the right direction that'd be great !

Also totally off topic but shirt pleats a total no go? and same with suit pants pleats correct?

 

[mxgreen]

Brooks Brothers makes their 1818 shirts in specific single lengths - i.e., 32, 33 or 34. Their 346 shirts - sold at "factory stores" are in the double lengths - i.e., 32/33 or 34/35. Good luck.

 

[DocHolliday]

You can find specific sleeve lengths even on very affordable shirts. Just look for brands that offer it. In terms of finding better quality shirts, you could always visit discount stores like Century 21, or you could try eBay. New Brooks Brothers shirts -- the mainline ones with specific sizing -- can be bought on the 'Bay for $30 or less regularly, at least in my size. Just need to know what size you need.

SF is all about finding bargains on a budget, so read a few threads here and check out B&S.

 

[Mr.K]

I have found that by using Jantzen and having shirt made to size I save money and get shirts that fit the way I want. I hav enot had any of the horror stories some have and love the shirts I get from them. I can get a good fitting and quality shirt for @$50 US and do not have to worry about getting owrk done to it after getting it in the post. I like the MTM also becuase it allows me to change the shirt dimensions to achieve the fit I want for work and for casual.

 

[ArMiXiA]

How do the MTM shirts work? I'm not sure what kind of material to pick or style rather. I'm very new to this. How do you give the company your measurements? Get them from a local tailor and send it in?

 

[dinted voice]

I would do the measurements yourself, or have a friend/so do them for you. A tailor will often times add more room than what you want. If you have a favorite shirt I would pick the details from that....collar, cuff, etc.

I personally like Tailorstore.com, though others will disagree. Many people like Jantzen tailor, but the results are mixed at best. Do a search on here of MTM and you should have an abundance of posts to view.