To choose the right size in men's clothes, measure your chest, shoulders, waist, inseam and neck with a soft tape, then compare those numbers with the size details for the specific item, not just the S, M or L label. Sizes are not standardized, so check the fit type too: slim, regular, relaxed and oversized cuts in the same size fit very differently.
Last updated: November 2026
This men's size guide shows how to measure yourself, how sizing differs for tops, bottoms and oversized pieces, and what to do when you fall between two sizes.
Key Takeaways
- Measure yourself once and keep the numbers on your phone for every online order.
- Shoulders and chest decide the fit of tops. Waist and inseam decide the fit of bottoms.
- Always read the fit type, because it changes how a labeled size feels.
- Oversized pieces are cut roomy on purpose, so you usually do not need to size up.
Why Do Sizes Differ Between Brands?
Sizes differ because there is no single global standard. Each brand sets its own measurements for Small, Medium and Large based on its fit and target customer.
That is why a Medium shirt from one store can feel snug while a Medium from another feels loose. The reliable approach is to know your body measurements and compare them with the details for each item, instead of assuming your usual size carries over.
How Do You Measure Yourself Correctly?
Use a soft measuring tape, wear a thin T-shirt or nothing on top, stand relaxed and keep the tape level and snug but not tight. Ask someone to help with the shoulders and back.
Measurements for shirts, polos and T-shirts
- Chest: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, under the armpits and across the shoulder blades, keeping it level.
- Shoulders: Measure across your back from the edge of one shoulder bone to the other.
- Neck: Measure around the base of your neck where a collar sits, with one finger under the tape for comfort. This matters most for formal shirts you button to the top.
- Sleeve length: Measure from the center back of your neck, over the shoulder, down to your wrist bone.
- Length: Measure from the highest point of the shoulder down to where you want the hem to sit.
Measurements for pants and jeans
- Waist: Measure around where you actually wear your trousers, usually just above the hip bones. Do not suck in.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your seat.
- Inseam: Measure from the crotch straight down the inside of the leg to where you want the pants to end. An easier method is to measure the inseam of a pair you already like.
- Thigh: Measure around the fullest part of one thigh. This helps most with tapered or slim cuts.
What Size Am I? A General Measurement Table
The table below is general guidance based on common menswear sizing, not IVAR's official size chart. Use it to find your likely starting size, then check the details for the specific item you are buying.
| Size | Chest (inches) | Waist (inches) | Neck (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 36 to 38 | 28 to 30 | 14 to 14.5 |
| M | 38 to 40 | 30 to 32 | 15 to 15.5 |
| L | 40 to 42 | 32 to 34 | 16 to 16.5 |
| XL | 42 to 44 | 34 to 36 | 17 to 17.5 |
| XXL | 44 to 46 | 36 to 38 | 18 to 18.5 |
Jeans are often sold by waist number, such as 30, 32 or 34, which usually refers to waist inches. Compare it with your measured waist rather than the waist number on an old pair, since cuts and fabrics vary. Our men's denim fit and wash guide explains how different jean cuts fit.
How Does Sizing Differ for Tops, Bottoms and Oversized Pieces?
For tops, start from your shoulders and chest. For bottoms, start from your waist and inseam. For oversized pieces, take your usual size, because the extra room is part of the design.
| Garment | Key measurements | Sizing tip |
|---|---|---|
| Formal and casual shirts | Shoulders, chest, neck, sleeve | Shoulder seams should sit on your shoulder edge. |
| Polos and regular T-shirts | Shoulders, chest, length | The chest should skim, not pull at the placket. |
| Oversized T-shirts | Chest, length | Take your usual size, since the loose cut is intentional. |
| Trousers and chinos | Waist, hips, inseam | Sit down in them to check the seat and thighs. |
| Jeans | Waist, thigh, inseam | Check the fit name, such as regular, straight or bootcut. |
For example, IVAR's oversized T-shirts are described as a relaxed, loose oversized silhouette, so your normal size already gives the roomy look. For formal shirts, our guide to choosing the perfect fit formal shirt covers collar and sleeve fit in more depth.
How Does Fit Type Change Your Size?
Fit type changes how much room a size gives you. A Medium in a slim cut sits much closer than a Medium in a regular or relaxed cut.
- Slim or tailored fit: Close to the body. Match it to your exact measurements and avoid sizing down.
- Regular fit: Balanced room through the chest, waist and hips. The safest choice when you are unsure.
- Relaxed or oversized fit: Extra room throughout. Your usual size, or one size down if you want less volume, is usually right.
What Should You Do If You Are Between Two Sizes?
Choose based on the garment and how you like it to fit. For structured pieces like formal shirts, pick the size that fits your shoulders and neck. For relaxed pieces like T-shirts and casual polos, the larger size usually gives more comfort.
For trousers, an adjustable waist can help. The IVAR Navy Korean 2.0 Adjustable Pants (Rs. 4,250) have an adjustable waistband and 4-way stretch fabric, which gives some flexibility if your waist sits between sizes.
What If the Size Is Still Wrong?
Check the exchange policy before you order. At IVAR, you can exchange items within 15 days if they are unused and still have their tags. Sale items cannot be exchanged, and refunds are only given for verified defective items, so measure carefully before buying from a sale.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
- Relying on your usual size label without checking the item's details.
- Ignoring shoulder width, which is the hardest thing for a tailor to fix.
- Sizing up "just in case," which often leads to a baggy, unstructured look.
- Forgetting fabric behavior: some cotton can shrink slightly after washing, while knits and stretch fabrics give a little.
How Do You Keep Clothes Fitting Well After Washing?
- Wash in cold water, especially for 100% cotton pieces.
- Avoid high-heat drying, the most common cause of shrinking.
- Hang shirts so the shoulders and collars keep their shape.
How Does IVAR's New Size Filter Help You Shop?
Every IVAR collection page now has a size bar at the top, so you can tap your size and see only the pieces available in it. Tops such as polos, shirts and sweaters show sizes S, M, L, XL and XXL, while pants show waist sizes such as 30, 32, 34 and 36.
Measure yourself using this guide first, then use the size bar to see only what is available in your size. This works on every collection, from the Sweaters & Layering collection to the all IVAR products page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find my shirt size when shopping online in Pakistan?
Measure your chest, shoulders, neck and sleeve length, then compare them with the size details for that specific shirt. Do not rely on the S, M or L label alone, because sizes vary between brands.
How do I measure my inseam at home?
Lay a pair of pants that fit you well flat on a table and measure from the crotch seam down the inside leg to the hem. This is more accurate than measuring your own leg.
Should I size up for oversized T-shirts?
Usually not. Oversized T-shirts are cut with extra room on purpose, so your normal size gives the intended relaxed look, and sizing up can make it look sloppy.
What should I do if I am between two sizes?
For structured pieces like formal shirts, choose the size that fits your shoulders and neck. For relaxed pieces like T-shirts, the larger size usually feels more comfortable.
Can I exchange an item if the size is wrong?
At IVAR, unused items with tags can be exchanged within 15 days. Sale items are not exchangeable, so double-check your measurements before buying on sale.
How often should I re-measure myself?
Every year or so is a good habit, or sooner if your weight or training routine changes. Small changes in body shape can shift which size fits best.
Should I size up to fit winter layers underneath?
Not automatically. If you plan to wear a sweater or thermal under a jacket or overshirt, check the chest and shoulder measurements of the outer piece instead. A regular fit usually leaves enough room for a light layer. For heavier layering in colder cities like Lahore or Islamabad, compare the measurements with a jacket you already wear comfortably over a sweater.
How do I find products in my size on the IVAR website?
Open any collection page and use the size bar at the top. Tap Size, then choose your size, such as M, L or 32, and the page shows only the products available in that size.
Do IVAR pants use waist sizes or S, M, L?
Most IVAR trousers and jeans use waist sizes such as 30, 32, 34 and 36. Knitted pants, joggers and track pants use S, M, L and XL.
Final Thoughts
Getting the right size is mostly about measuring once, measuring correctly and reading the fit type on every item. Keep your numbers handy, use the general table above as a starting point, and you will order with far fewer surprises.
Related Reading
These guides apply size and fit advice to specific pieces:
- How to Choose the Perfect Polo Shirt: Fit, Fabric, and Color Guide
- Men's Formal Shirts: Complete Buying Guide for Pakistan
- Best Formal Mens Pants in Pakistan
- Best Winter Jacket for Men Pakistan: Bomber vs Leather
