Men's Sizing Chart

Hi all!

Now for the gentlemen. Let's talk about their shirt sizes. Formalwear first. Advanced Tips available at the end of the post :)

The most important size you need for a formal shirt is his collar size. His chest size and sleeve length are helpful in picking the right fit but the utmost importance is how the collar sits on his frame as this is the basis of his first impression (± shoulder fit: very similar to the Malay baju Melayu - the finishing on the collar and button slits is where the best tailors focus more). If these sizes are slightly off, he can still pull his look with a light jacket or armbands or cardigan and look good - the same cannot be said with the collar size. 

How Armbands Look Like When Worn:

                                                           Picture credit to Mr T ;) Thank you!

Some brand names like Thomas Pink, Savile Row, M&S carry Slim Fit lines - they are ideal for lean men with no extras on their stomach. Regular fits usually cater men with more muscle on their stomach ;)

Sometimes the gentlemen in question is not available to be measured - most women are able to estimate one's collar size having met him face to face, but to do this she must have a benchmark person in her mind to compare to.

For example, know someone with a size 15" collar and then it will be easier to estimate other people's collar as appropriate :) This takes practice!

And for those who keep putting off trying on shirts everytime they are at the store: do it! A replica of your body isn't widely available, there is no substitute for trying them on yourself ;) Different brands have different cuts so it helps to notice which style, fabric and cut suit you best. Also, do notice fabric care instructions before buying as this can incur additional costs/effort (eg handwash).

Advanced Tips - matching the right collar types to the right face shapes can make a huge difference in looking more balanced and hence smarter ;) Some links to match the best collar types to face shapes:

http://www.fitcustomshirts.com/how-to-select-shirt-collar-based-on-face-shape.html

http://www.individualism.co.uk/2009/05/mens-shirt-collar-styles/

We personally believe formal shirts to be an investment - as this is essentially the attire you wear to support the ones you love. In Malay we say 'baju cari rezeki' - so it is worth taking the time and effort to look the part :)

Best regards,
Saudagar UK

Women's Sizing Chart

Hi all!

Some guidance to buy ladies' UK-sized clothes (having a tape measurer now would be handy). Let's start with tops/dresses.

This is the textbook way - meant for absolute beginners. (advanced tips at the end of the post).
First measure the three sizes (bust-waist-hips) of the lady you're planning to by for, if possible. If this is not possible, get hold of one of her favourite tops measure accordingly. If this too isn't an option, seek another person with enough retail experience to help you (most women are).

Advanced Tips - things to take into account when choosing size:

1) Item of clothing
Deciding between a size 8 or 10 cardigan won't be as tough as deciding for a 8 or 10 sized form-fitting dress because the dress has to hold her body at the right places. Body type knowledge is crucial. Stick to sleeveless tops, cardigans, batwings to be safe! But if you must pick a dress, a maxi dress is non-form-fitting as well as being flattering for most shapes and it can be layered with a long cardigan for the more conservative.

2) Usual fitting
Notice her wardrobe style - does it fit her? Does she like her clothes looser so it doesn't cling her body? Contrast that with how the model on the website wears the clothing. It is entirely possible to be a UK size 8, but in some lines you can pull of wearing a size 14 top if that is the fitting you require (be sure the shoulder pads/seam don't hang down unnecessarily!).

3) Fabric of clothing
This is closely related to #2: some fabrics are more clingy than others: like thin jersey. Some fabrics have more static potential built in them like wool and silk. Polyester is the best all-rounder while cotton is most breathable as it is natural. Some fabrics are also harder to care for, so do take a peek at their care instructions.

4) Designer cutting
Although the tables above specify the measurements for sizes, it is best to use them as a guide only as different designers cater for regional height and size differences. For example a Japan size M is usually a typical UK size S. There are international conversion sizing charts available on the Internet - look up the equivalent sizes for US, European (Continental), Japan sizes etc.

Some brand names have a Petite, Short and Tall range aside from their Regular line. This caters for people with varied torso:leg length ratio. Their website should be able to specify their measurements to suit you.

Next up: Men's Shirts and Tops!