Dress shirts are sized by two numbers: collar and sleeve, both in inches. A tag that reads 16 34/35 means a 16-inch collar and a sleeve for a 34- or 35-inch arm. This page explains every part of that label. To find your own numbers, use the size calculator.
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Collar sizes in inches and centimeters
| US/UK collar | Exact cm | EU label (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 14″ | 35.6 cm | 36 |
| 14.5″ | 36.8 cm | 37 |
| 15″ | 38.1 cm | 38 |
| 15.5″ | 39.4 cm | 39 |
| 16″ | 40.6 cm | 41 |
| 16.5″ | 41.9 cm | 42 |
| 17″ | 43.2 cm | 43 |
| 17.5″ | 44.5 cm | 44 |
| 18″ | 45.7 cm | 46 |
| 18.5″ | 47.0 cm | 47 |
| 19″ | 48.3 cm | 48 |
| 20″ | 50.8 cm | 51 |
Centimeter labels are rounded, so a brand may call 15.5 inches either 39 or 40. When a brand publishes its own chart, trust that over any general table, including this one.
Sleeve lengths
| Tag reads | Fits a sleeve measurement of |
|---|---|
| 32/33 | 32 to 33 inches |
| 34/35 | 34 to 35 inches |
| 36/37 | 36 to 37 inches |
| Exact, e.g. 34 | 34 inches (tailored and custom brands) |
Not sure what your sleeve length is? It’s measured from the center back of your neck, over the shoulder, to your wrist bone. Here’s how to measure it.
Why S, M and L don’t match across brands
S, M, L and XL aren’t a standard. Each brand maps them to its own collar ranges and body widths, and the same letter can be cut slim at one brand and roomy at another. If you shop by letter, check the brand’s chart every time. If you can, shop by collar and sleeve.
Big and tall sizes
Collars over 18 inches and sleeves over 37 inches are usually sold in big and tall ranges. Tall sizes add body length so the shirt stays tucked; big sizes add room through the chest and waist.
Got your numbers? Shop by collar and sleeve, not S, M or L. See brands that sell exact collar and sleeve sizes or compare non-iron shirts.
Quick answers
What does 16 34/35 mean on a dress shirt?
A 16-inch collar with a sleeve made to fit someone who measures 34 or 35 inches. Paired sleeves let a brand cover two lengths with one shirt.
What does 17 32/33 mean?
A 17-inch collar and a sleeve for a 32- or 33-inch arm. It’s a common size for men with a fuller neck and shorter arms.
Is a 15.5 neck a medium?
At many brands, yes, but it isn’t a standard. Check the brand’s own chart, since letter sizes vary.
What is a 42 in dress shirts?
European brands label collars in centimeters. A 42 collar is about 16.5 inches.
Related: How to measure · US/UK/EU conversion · Fit guide