Most sizing guides tell you to just measure your chest and pick a size. That advice works for generic t-shirts, but The Daily merch sizing guide reveals why it's not that simple. Hoodies, tees, and women's cuts all fit differently, and the right size depends on how you want it to look and feel. This guide covers everything you need to get the perfect fit for your next purchase.
Quick Picks Summary Table
| Product/Pick | Best For | Key Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Daily Hoodie | Relaxed everyday wear | Runs 1-2 inches larger in chest; pre-shrunk cotton blend | $65-$75 |
| The Daily T-Shirt (Unisex) | True-to-size fit | Classic cut with medium weight fabric | $30-$35 |
| The Daily T-Shirt (Women's) | Tailored fit | Slightly tapered waist; shorter length | $30-$35 |
| Size Up Combo | Oversized hoodie look | Order hoodie 1 size up from tee | $65-$75 |
| Gift Bundle | Gifting unknown size | Includes size chart and exchange info | $60-$100 |
What You Need to Know
Finding the right size for The Daily merch isn't just about avoiding a return. It is about getting the look and comfort you expect. Whether you're ordering a hoodie for cozy mornings or a tee for layering, this guide will help you measure correctly, compare hoodie versus t-shirt sizing, and make a confident choice. After reading, you'll be able to order any item without second-guessing.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Measure Your Chest
Wrap a measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and snug but not tight. Exhale normally. Write down the number in inches. For The Daily hoodies, this measurement is the most important. Pro tip: Have a friend help for accuracy - twisting to measure yourself adds 1-2 inches of error.Step 2: Measure Your Waist and Hips
For fitted tees, your waist measurement matters. Measure around your natural waist (above your belly button). For hoodies, hip measurement is key because the hem sits lower. Stand straight, measure around the widest part of your hips. I've seen too many people ignore hips and end up with a hoodie that rides up.Step 3: Compare to The Daily Size Chart
Each product on The Daily store has its own size chart. The hoodie chart lists chest width, body length, and sleeve length. The tee chart usually has chest and length only. Never assume one size fits across different styles. For example, the unisex hoodie's medium has a chest width of 22 inches, but the women's tee medium has a chest width of 20 inches. Always match your measurements to the specific product.Step 4: Decide Your Fit Preference
The Daily merch sizing guide breaks into three fits: standard (as designed), relaxed (your true size), and oversized (size up). If you like hoodies roomy for layering, go one size up from your chest measurement. For tees, if you prefer a trim look, stick with the size that matches your chest. If you want a loose drape, size up. Pro tip: Unisex tees naturally have more room in the shoulders, so women often prefer the women's cut for a narrower fit.Step 5: Consider Fabric and Shrinkage
The Daily hoodies are made from a cotton-polyester blend. They pre-shrink the fabric, but minimal shrinkage (about 1-2%) can still happen after the first wash in hot water. If you are between sizes, choose the larger size and wash cold. Tees have similar shrink characteristics. Always wash cold and tumble dry low to maintain the fit.Step 6: Check the Product Photos for Real Fit
Most listings include photos of models wearing the item. Look at the product images to see how the fabric drapes. If the model wears a size large and looks snug, size up if you prefer a looser look. This is especially helpful for hoodies, where the thickness affects how the size wears.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the hip measurement for hoodies: Hoodies are longer than tees. If you have wider hips, a hoodie that fits your chest may be too tight around the hips. Always check the hip width on the size chart.
- Assuming unisex sizing is unisex in fit: Unisex means the shape is based on a male torso. Women with broader shoulders might find unisex fine, but many prefer the tapered waist of women's cuts. Don't just pick your usual clothing size without checking the cut.
- Buying the same size for hoodie and tee: A medium tee may fit perfectly, but a medium hoodie could be too loose because hoodies have extra room for layering. Always size based on the specific garment, not your size from another brand or style.
- Not accounting for sleeve length: On hoodies, sleeve length matters. The Daily hoodie sleeves are a bit longer for a sporty look. If you have short arms, you may need a size down. Measure from your shoulder seam to your wrist for precision.
- Forgetting that cotton blends have less stretch: Some shirts have spandex for stretch; The Daily merch uses 100% cotton or cotton-poly without stretch. That means you need a few inches of ease in your measurements. Add 2-3 inches to your chest measurement for a comfortable fit.
Pro Tips from the Community
- The folding test: Before removing tags, fold the hoodie or tee in half vertically. Compare the chest width to a favorite garment that fits well. Simple and effective.
- Use the size chart like a pro: Don't rely on your typical size. I always recommend checking the 'chest width' column. That is the garment's flat measurement across the chest. Double it for the full circumference, then compare to your chest measurement plus desired ease.
- Seasonal adjustments: If you plan to wear the hoodie over a thick sweater in winter, size up. For summer tees, stick to your exact chest measurement for a cooler fit. I learned this after buying a hoodie that only worked with thin layers.
- The Daily hoodie runs a half-size large: In my experience fitting dozens of customers, the hoodie typically measures 0.5-1 inch larger in chest than the chart states. If you are on the low end of a size, consider sizing down for a more tailored look.
Recommended Gear & Products
The Daily Hoodie
This hoodie uses a 12 oz cotton-poly fleece that holds its shape wash after wash. The ribbed cuffs and hem maintain elasticity, so sizing up for an oversized look still feels secure. Best choice if you want a versatile layer that works for lounging or casual outings. Price: $65-$75.The Daily T-Shirt (Unisex)
Made from 5.3 oz ring-spun cotton, this tee has a classic fit with a medium weight that drapes well without being too thin. It's the safest gift option because the fit is familiar. For most body types, going true to size works. Price: $30-$35.The Daily Women's T-Shirt
A lighter 4.5 oz fabric with a contoured silhouette. The waist is slightly tapered and the length is 1-2 inches shorter than the unisex version. Great for a polished, fitted look. Price: $30-$35.Frequently Asked Questions
What size should I get if I'm between sizes?
Choose the larger size for a relaxed fit or if you prefer layering. For a snug fit, go smaller. The Daily hoodie has minimal stretch, so the larger size gives you room to move.Do The Daily hoodies shrink?
The fabric is pre-shrunk, but expect 1-2% shrinkage in length after the first wash in hot water. Washing cold and air drying minimizes this. If you are between sizes, size up to be safe.How do women's sizes compare to unisex?
Women's sizes are cut narrower in the shoulders and waist, and the length is about 2 inches shorter. A women's large fits similar to a unisex medium in chest but with a tailored waist.What's the best size for an oversized fit?
For a hoodie, go 2 sizes up from your chest measurement. For a tee, 1-2 sizes up depending on how baggy you want it. Check the body length to avoid a shirt that's too long.Can I exchange if the size doesn't fit?
Yes. Visit our Contact page and we'll guide you through the exchange process. We recommend measuring before ordering to save time.Key Takeaways
- Measure chest, waist, and hips for hoodies; chest and waist for tees.
- The Daily hoodie runs slightly large; tees are true to size.
- Unisex and women's cuts differ significantly - check the size chart each time.
- If ordering as a gift, consider a size chart with measurements or an easy exchange option.
- Wash cold and tumble dry low to maintain fit over time.
