Men’s and women’s bodies are different, and these differences require changes in the way clothing is made. When it comes to men’s and women’s T-shirts, there are contrasts that affect how they fit.
Learning about the differences between men’s and women’s T-shirts will help you understand why it is best to choose a shirt for your gender so it looks best.
Differences Between Men’s and Women’s T-Shirts
You might look at a men’s and woman’s T-shirt and not see much of a difference, but there are some subtle distinctions in design and cut that might surprise you.
Gone are the days when manufacturers would sell unisex T-shirts. Today, men and women realize their need for a better fit.
The following are some of the most significant distinctions between men’s and women’s T-shirts.
T-Shirt Waist
When you look at men’s and women’s T-shirts, one of the most obvious differences is the waist. A man’s torso is fairly straight from top to bottom, so manufacturers cut men’s T-shirts in a straight downward line.
Women generally have narrower waistlines, so manufacturers will cut a woman’s T-shirt into a tapered design.
Women’s T-shirts are cut narrower at the waistline to complement the natural curves of her body.
T-Shirt Hips
A woman’s hips are obviously different from a man’s. When comparing men’s and women’s T-shirts, it is easy to see that the bottom of a woman’s shirt is flared.
A man’s T-shirt forms a straight line from the chest to the hips. A woman’s T-shirt needs flare to accent her wider hips and give her a naturally curvy look.
T-Shirt’s Chest
Women’s T-shirts are designed to address a woman’s bustline and her need for more space in this area. If a woman wears a unisex or men’s T-shirt, she may find it difficult to fit her bustline and waist without having one be too baggy.
Although you will not find a women’s T-shirt that has specific bust sizes, manufacturers add extra width in this area to ensure a comfortable and attractive fit.
Women with larger busts will especially find wearing women’s T-shirts easier than men’s.
T-Shirt’s Sleeves
Another vital difference between men’s and women’s T-shirts is the sleeves. When a woman tries to wear a men’s T-shirt, she will often find the sleeves are way too long, coming to her elbows or lower.
T-shirt manufacturers often make women’s shirts with cap sleeves. Cap sleeves are much shorter and more form-fitting to better accommodate the slender arms of women wearers.
T-Shirt Neckline
Most men’s T-shirts fit closer to the neck than women’s shirts. Women’s T-shirts are often v-neck or at least have a broader opening for the neckline.
You will find many women’s T-shirts are made with a scoop neck.
Scoop and square necklines offer a more feminine look for T-shirts.
T-Shirt Sizes
As you know, men and women have different dimensions. Typically, men are much taller and have broader shoulders than women.
Manufacturers have taken note and are working to provide better sizing options for both men and women.
For instance, a men’s medium is going to be larger and broader at the shoulders than a woman’s medium T-shirt.
T-Shirt Fit
While we have discussed many differences between men’s and women’s T-shirts, there is one that is noticeable without even closely examining the two for distinctions.
Most men’s T-shirts are made to be worn baggier than women’s. Women’s T-shirts fit more snuggly, showing off a woman’s figure and making her look more feminine.
T-Shirt’s Fabric
This difference is more subtle than the others, but it is a distinction nonetheless. Unless you have worn both men’s and women’s T-shirts, you may not even notice that there are differences in the fabric.
Men’s T-shirts are typically made of thicker and even rougher fabric. Women’s T-shirt fabrics are thinner and softer.
How to Measure Your T-Shirt Size
Now that you know the differences between men’s and women’s T-shirts, it is necessary to make sure you choose the right size. Learning how to measure your T-shirt size will help you shop smartly.
Although you could undoubtedly measure yourself to get the perfect size, there is a better and easier way. If you have a T-shirt that fits perfectly, all you need to do is measure it.
To measure a T-shirt, you will need the following supplies:
- Your favorite T-shirt
- Fabric measuring tape
- A hard, flat surface
- A notepad and pencil for documenting the measurements
Follow these steps to measure your favorite T-shirt.
1. Find the Width
First, you will need to find the width of your T-shirt. Find the middle of the T-shirt and measure from side to side, and write down this measurement.
2. Measure the Shoulders
Take your measuring tape and start at one shoulder seam and measure to the other shoulder seam. This measurement is the width of the shoulder.
3. Measure the Hips
You should also measure across the hips to ensure the width will be correct for your size.
4. Measure the Length
You will need to measure the length of your T-shirt down the front middle, from the neckline seam to the bottom hem seam. Make sure to record this measurement.
Men’s and Women’s T-Shirts Differ Greatly
Now, you know the differences between the two and how to measure for the perfect size. You will no longer look at men’s and women’s T-shirts the same.
