How to Measure Yourself for a Plus-Size Shirt at Home (3XL to 10XL Guide)

Quick answer: To find our exact plus-size shirt chart, you need three measurements: chest; length, which you need to measure from the top of your shoulder to where the shirt should end; and the third is shoulder, which needs to be measured across your back, seam to seam. Measure standing relaxed; keep the tape snug but not too tight or loose, and compare your numbers with the Mr.XXXL size chart. If you fall between two sizes, then go for the larger one.

It is frustrating when you order an online shirt, and it gets tight across the belly or gets short at the hem. For big men, the problem is usually the sizing, not the shirt. Ordering is an easy task, including choosing your size, but returns and replacements are time-consuming, which can be avoided if you take five minutes to measure yourself before ordering; you can save time and avoid waiting for a refund.

What Do You Need to Measure Yourself?

• A soft measuring tape (the cloth kind used by tailors)
• A mirror, or a friend or family member to help
• A thin T-shirt or vest to wear while measuring
• Your phone’s notes app

Tip: No tape? Use a string, mark the point, then measure it against a ruler.

Step 1: How to Measure Your Chest

1. Stand straight with your arms relaxed at your sides.
2. Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits.
3. Keep the tape straight and level across your back. Check this in the mirror.
4. Breathe normally; don’t take big breaths while measuring. Do not puff out your chest or hold your breath.
5. Note the number in inches.

For big men: measure your stomach too. Wrap the tape around the widest part of your belly. If this number is larger than your chest, use the larger number when choosing your size. This is the most common reason shirt buttons pull and gape.

Step 2: How to Measure Shirt Length

1. Place the tape at the highest point of your shoulder, right next to your collar.
2. Let it fall straight down over your chest.
3. Stop where you want the shirt to end.

For a shirt you will tuck in, measure to the middle of your hips. For an untucked shirt, stop around the middle of your trouser zip. A short shirt rides up when you sit.

Step 3: How to Measure Your Shoulders

1. Ask someone to stand behind you.
2. Find the point where your shoulder ends and your arm begins, on each side.
3. Measure straight across your upper back from one point to the other.

If the shoulder seam sits too far down your arm, the shirt looks oversized even when the chest fits.

Easiest Method: Measure a Shirt That Already Fits You

If you own a shirt that fits you well, lay it flat on a table, button it up, and measure:

• Chest: Take from Armpit to Armpit, then multiply by 2
• Length: From the collar seam at the top of the shoulder down to the hem
• Shoulder: From one shoulder seam to the other

This is often the most accurate method, because it already includes the room you like.

Mr.XXXL Size Chart (2XL to 10XL)

All measurements are in inches.

SizeChestLengthShoulder

2XL 48 30.5 21

3XL 50 31.5 21

4XL 52 32.5 21

5XL 54 33.5 21.5

6XL 56 33.5 21.5

7XL 58 34.5 21.5

8XL 60 34.5 22

9XL 62 34.5 22.5

10XL 64 34.5 22.5

Quick guide: Each size adds 2 inches of chest. A 50-inch chest is 3XL, 54 inches is 5XL, 58 inches is 7XL, and 64 inches is 10XL.

Between Two Sizes? Here Is What to Choose

We recommend going one size up, especially if:

• Your stomach is larger than your chest
• You have broad shoulders or big arms
• You like to tuck your shirt in (it needs extra length)
• You want airflow in hot, humid weather
• The shirt is 100% cotton, which can shrink slightly after washing

Choose the smaller size only if your shoulders match it exactly and you prefer a closer fit.

5 Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid

1. Pulling the tape too tight
2. Measuring over a thick shirt, which adds 1–2 inches
3. Letting the tape slip down at the back
4. Guessing from another brand’s size
5. Only checking the chest, ignoring length and shoulder

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is 3XL in inches for men? It varies by brand. At Mr.XXXL, a 3XL shirt has a 50-inch chest, 31.5-inch length, and 21-inch shoulder.

Should I measure my chest or stomach for a plus-size shirt? Measure both. Use whichever number is larger to choose your size.

Is it better to buy a shirt one size bigger? If you are between sizes, yes. A slightly loose shirt looks better and feels more comfortable than one that pulls at the buttons.

What if my size is wrong after ordering? See our Cancellations & Refunds policy, or message us on WhatsApp before ordering.

Find Your Perfect Fit

Now that we hope you have your measurements, you can shop with us easily by browsing our plus-size shirts for men from 3XL to 10XL, from formal half-sleeve shirts to casual check shirts. Still not sure? Send us your measurements on WhatsApp, and our team will suggest your size. Or add to cart and order your shirt, then text us; our support team will help you with the size confirmation.