Ever ordered a t-shirt only to find it's way too tight or swimming on you? You're not alone. Getting the right size for Mystery Show merch can be tricky, especially since print-on-demand sizing varies by brand. In this guide, you'll learn exactly how to measure yourself, compare fit between t-shirts and hoodies, and pick the size that's right for you. No more guesswork.
How to Measure Yourself for Mystery Show Merch
Grab a soft measuring tape and a friend (or a mirror). Wear clothing that's close to your body, like a thin t-shirt. Stand naturally with your arms at your sides. Taking accurate measurements is the first step to nailing Mystery Show merch sizing.
Step 1: Chest Measurement
Wrap the tape under your armpits and around the fullest part of your chest. Keep it snug but not tight. Breathe normally. Write down the number in inches. This measurement determines the chest width for most tops.Step 2: Length Measurement
For shirt length, measure from the highest point of your shoulder (where the neck seam sits) down to where you want the hem to fall. For hoodies, measure straight down the front from the shoulder seam to the bottom. Pro tip: Press the tape flat against your body. A common mistake is curving it around your belly, which adds an inch or two.Step 3: Sleeve Measurement
For hoodies and long sleeves, measure from the center back of your neck across your shoulder to your wrist bone. Keep your arm slightly bent. This gives you the full sleeve length. For tees, short sleeve length is usually measured from the shoulder seam to the end of the sleeve. Our Mystery Show tees have a standard short sleeve length of about 8 inches for a medium.Mystery Show T-Shirt Sizing Details
Our Mystery Show t-shirts are pre-shrunk 100% ringspun cotton. They're soft but hold shape well. The fit is classic - not too slim, not too boxy. Here's the breakdown based on actual measurements from our production runs.
Size Chart for Tees (inches)
| Size | Chest Width | Length | Sleeve Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 18 | 28 | 8 |
| M | 20 | 29 | 8.5 |
| L | 22 | 30 | 9 |
| XL | 24 | 31 | 9.5 |
| 2XL | 26 | 32 | 10 |
If you're between sizes, I recommend sizing up for a relaxed fit. The cotton will soften after a few washes but won't shrink dramatically if you follow care instructions (cold wash, tumble dry low).
Mystery Show Hoodie Sizing Details
Our hoodies use a 50/50 cotton-polyester blend with a fleece interior. They're heavier - about 8 ounces per square yard. The hood is double-lined and the front pocket is roomy for your phone and keys.
Size Chart for Hoodies (inches)
| Size | Chest Width | Length | Sleeve Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 20 | 27 | 33 |
| M | 22 | 28 | 34 |
| L | 24 | 29 | 35 |
| XL | 26 | 30 | 36 |
| 2XL | 28 | 31 | 37 |
Notice the chest width is about 2 inches more per size than the tees. That's intentional for layering. The length is actually shorter on hoodies because the hem sits higher (hip-length). If you want a longer hoodie, consider going up one size from your usual tee size.
Size Chart Comparison: T-Shirts vs Hoodies
It's easy to assume your same size in a tee will work for a hoodie, but they fit differently. Let's compare for a size Large:
- Chest Width: Tee 22" vs Hoodie 24" (2" more gives room for a shirt underneath)
- Length: Tee 30" vs Hoodie 29" (hoodies sit an inch higher)
- Sleeve: Tee 9" short vs Hoodie 35" full length
The bottom line: choose your hoodie size based on your chest measurement plus 6 to 8 inches of ease. For example, if your chest is 42", the Large hoodie (24" chest width x 2 = 48" circumference) gives you 6" of ease. That's comfortable for most. If you're 44" chest, consider XL for 8" ease.
Tips for Choosing the Right Size Every Time
Here are actionable tips from my years in merch design.
Know Your Vanity Size vs Actual Size
Most brands label a 40" chest as Medium. But if you measure 42", you're technically a Large. Don't rely on generic size labels - always check the specific Mystery Show size chart.Consider How You'll Wear It
Will you layer your tee under a flannel? Go up one size. Wearing your hoodie over just a tank? Stick with your tee size. Think about your regular outfits.Check the Fabric Content
Our tees are 100% cotton: they'll shrink slightly. Our hoodies are cotton-poly: less shrinkage. If you're between sizes, the cotton tee might shrink into a perfect fit, so maybe stay true to size.What to Do If Your Merch Doesn't Fit
If you receive your Mystery Show merch and it's not right, don't worry. Print-on-demand items often run slightly different from chart. Check your measurements against the chart above. If there's a manufacturing defect (e.g., seam split, wrong size label), contact us through the contact form within 30 days. We'll arrange a replacement or store credit.
For sizing issues that aren't defects, we cannot exchange for a different size unless the item was incorrectly shipped. So measure carefully before ordering. If you need help, our team can guide you - just use the contact page.
Key Takeaways
- Measure your chest, length, and sleeves with a tape for accuracy.
- Tees have a classic fit; hoodies are roomier in the chest but shorter in length.
- Size up for layering or if between sizes.
- Hoodie chest width is about 2" more per size than tees.
- Contact us if there's a defect - we don't do exchanges for wrong size selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm between sizes for Mystery Show merch?
Go up if you prefer a relaxed fit or plan to layer. Go down if you like a more tailored look. Check the chest measurement against your own - if you're 41" chest, a Medium (40") might be tight; Large (44") gives room.Do Mystery Show tees shrink after washing?
Yes, about 1-2% in the first wash. 100% cotton will shrink slightly more than the cotton-poly hoodie. Wash cold and tumble dry low to minimize shrinkage.How does the length of the hoodie compare to the tee?
Hoodies are about 1-2 inches shorter in length because they're cut hip-length. If you prefer longer coverage, consider sizing up in the hoodie.Can I layer the hoodie over the tee?
Absolutely. The hoodie has extra chest width to accommodate a tee underneath. If you plan to layer a thick sweater under it, size up.What size should I get if I'm 6'2" and 185 lbs?
Based on typical measurements (chest 40-42", height 74"), a Large tee should work for length but might be snug in chest. A Large hoodie will be more comfortable. If in doubt, go XL for length and ease. - - This guide is written from the perspective of a fan-run store. Mystery Show merchandise is inspired by the podcast but not officially licensed.
