T-Shirt Size Chart India: What 40, 42, 44, 46 and 48 Actually Mean
On an Indian t-shirt size chart, the number is your chest measurement in inches. Size 40 is built for a 40-inch chest, 42 for 42 inches, and so on. This is more reliable than S, M and L because it refers to a real body measurement rather than a brand's interpretation.
The Mapping
XS (40): approximately 38 to 40 inch chest
S (42): approximately 40 to 42 inch chest
M (44): approximately 42 to 44 inch chest
L (46): approximately 44 to 46 inch chest
XL (48): approximately 46 to 48 inch chest
Shunya Theory uses exactly this system across all four designs, labelled XS(40) through XL(48). The number is the useful part; the letter is there for familiarity.
Why Numbers Beat Letters
Letter sizing is not standardised anywhere. A medium at one brand can be two full inches different from a medium at another, which is why people who wear M at one label wear L at the next.
A numbered chart removes that ambiguity entirely. If you know your chest measurement, you know your size, regardless of brand.
Garment Size vs Body Size
This trips people up. The size number refers to your chest, not to the garment's chest. A size 42 relaxed tee measures considerably more than 42 inches around, because the extra width is the fit.
So order your chest size and let the pattern do the rest. Sizing up on a relaxed cut is the most common ordering error, explained in should you size up in an oversized t-shirt.
Finding Your Number
Wrap a soft tape around the fullest part of your chest, under the armpits
Keep the tape level across your back and do not pull it tight
Read the measurement in inches
Match it to the chart, choosing the size that contains your number
If you are between two sizes, the smaller usually reads neater in a relaxed cut. Full method in how to measure your size at home
What About Length?
Chest is the primary measurement but length decides how the shirt reads, particularly in relaxed cuts where hem position defines the silhouette. Always check both numbers against a shirt you already own.
For reference, Shunya Theory tees are 100% cotton, 240 GSM (220 GSM on WARLI), screen printed, relaxed fit, XS(40) to XL(48), ₹1,349.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does size 42 mean in t-shirts?
It means the shirt is built for a 42-inch chest measurement. On Indian numbered charts the size number refers to your body's chest measurement in inches.
Is size 40 small or medium?
On most Indian charts, 40 corresponds to XS or S depending on the brand. What matters is the number itself, which is your chest measurement in inches.
How do Indian t-shirt sizes compare to S, M, L?
Roughly: 40 is XS, 42 is S, 44 is M, 46 is L and 48 is XL. Letter sizing varies between brands, so always check the inch measurement.
Should I round up or down between two sizes?
In a relaxed or oversized cut, the smaller size usually gives the intended silhouette. Choose the larger only if you want a deliberately longer, looser drape.
Discover how silence can speak through design. Explore our latest streetwear collections where ancient wisdom meets modern minimalism. Each piece embodies mindful fashion, Indian inspired streetwear, and the spirit of Shunya Theory.
👉 ARKA spiritual streetwear inspired by the Sun's energy
👉 YAMA fearless minimalism rooted in ancient philosophy
👉 VANVAAS self-discovery through solitude and design
👉 WARLI Indian heritage streetwear with tribal art essence
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