Regular VS Slim: What Dress Shirt Fit Is Best For You?

In recent years a more tighter, or slim fit version of the dress shirt has become popular. This trend has been happening in Europe for decades, and is starting to take of in the rest of the world just recently. This may end up being more than just a trend, as the slimmer fit compliments the body if fit correctly.

Slim fit dress shirts are considered the more “stylish” fit. This fit can be referred to by many other names: Fitted, MOD Fit, Union Fit, SOHO Fit, Modern Fit, or Super Slim. Slim fit should not be mistaken as a fit for slim/skinny people; any body shape, from athletic to round, can wear a slim fit. The term derives from the minimal extra fabric that is added to the shirt size on top of the body measurements. For example, a regular fit dress shirt might add 8 inches to the fabric on top of the chest measurements, whereas a slim fit will add half that.

A slim fit will generally follow the shape of the body without stretching – so, if properly measured and tailored, it will not “stretch” around on a bulging stomach or love handles. Along with the fit around the body, a proper slim fit dress shirt should also maintain its slimness along the length of the arms. A slim fit dress shirt, more than any other fit, is a style you definitely want to consider having tailor-made to order — and that’s not shameless promotion, it’s the truth. A generic manufactured slim fit is highly unlikely to fit all parts of the body properly, as there is less leeway with extra fabric for room, whereas a properly tailored slim fit dress shirt will enhance the features of any body in a positive way.

The traditional dress shirt is a Regular Fit. In comparison to the Slim Fit the Regular Fit is much looser on the body. Some claim it is more comfortable as the extra fabric provides flexibility, though a properly cut Slim Fit should also provide flexibility when designed for their exact body. When a tailor makes a regular fit dress shirt they will typically add 10cm on top of the chest measurements to make the actual shirt measurements, whereas a slim fit would be half of this. This is probably the most common fit, though it is quickly being replaced by the more cut version, especially amongst the younger generation.

Even if you have some extra weight you may consider wearing a slim fit. Just remember that slim vs regular has nothing to do with your body shape, but rather it’s how the tailor shapes your shirt after he takes your measurements. Try both and see which one compliments your body best.

We specialize in men’s dress shirts at upTailor.com. Partnered with world renown LUTES Shirt Maker we create individually tailored shirts. You won’t believe the difference after you try a tailored shirt.