You could ask him, but then the surprise is gone.

You could guess, but getting the size wrong can turn a thoughtful gift into an exchange.

Fortunately, you don't need to know his exact measurements to make a much more informed choice.

The easiest approach is to stop thinking about numbers and start looking at the clothes he already wears.

Start With a T-Shirt He Already Owns

If you can quietly get hold of one of his T-shirts, you already have most of the information you need.

Look for a T-shirt he wears regularly—not one that has an obviously unusual oversized or slim fit.

Lay it flat and pay attention to three things:

• Shoulder width
• Chest width
• Overall length

You don't necessarily need to know whether he is a Medium, Large or XL. What matters is finding a garment with proportions similar to the one you're buying.

1. Look at the Shoulders First

The shoulder is one of the clearest indicators of whether a T-shirt fits properly.

On a regular-fit T-shirt, the shoulder seam generally sits around the natural edge of the shoulder.

If his existing T-shirts consistently sit this way, look for a similar silhouette rather than automatically sizing up or down.

If you want to understand the details of a good fit, our guide on how the shoulders should fit on a men's T-shirt is a useful reference.

2. Compare the Chest, Not Just the Label

A size label isn't universal.

One brand's Medium can fit differently from another brand's Medium.

That's why the letter on the label is less useful than the actual proportions of the garment.

If possible, compare the chest measurement of his existing T-shirt with the measurements provided by the brand you're buying from.

This is especially important when buying premium clothing, where the intended silhouette is often part of the design.

3. Don't Forget the Length

Two T-shirts can have similar chest measurements and still look completely different because of their length.

Look at where his existing T-shirts normally finish.

Does he prefer them around the hip?

Does he wear slightly longer T-shirts?

Does he tend to tuck them in?

These small observations can tell you a lot about the silhouette he prefers.

4. Understand His Usual Fit

Before choosing a size, decide what kind of fit he normally likes.

Regular Fit

A clean, balanced silhouette that works naturally with jeans, chinos and trousers. It's often the safest choice when you're unsure about someone's preferences.

Relaxed Fit

More room through the body with a more casual appearance. This works well for someone whose wardrobe already leans relaxed.

Oversized Fit

Deliberately larger proportions through the shoulders and body. This should generally be chosen only when you know he likes the oversized aesthetic.

When buying a gift, don't confuse “bigger” with “safer.”

An oversized T-shirt isn't automatically more comfortable or flattering. The intended fit matters.

What If You Can't Check Any of His T-Shirts?

If you genuinely can't access one of his T-shirts, look at what he wears in photographs or when you're together.

Pay attention to:

• Whether his clothes sit close to his body or have more room
• Whether his sleeves sit close to his arms or fall loosely
• Whether he prefers shorter or longer tops
• Whether most of his wardrobe is regular, relaxed or oversized

You can also discreetly ask someone who lives with him or knows his wardrobe well.

Sometimes the easiest answer is the one you don't have to discover yourself.

Why You Shouldn't Guess His Size From His Height or Weight

Height and weight don't tell you enough about how a T-shirt will fit.

Two men with the same height and weight can have very different shoulder widths, chest proportions and preferred silhouettes.

Clothing is about proportion—not just body size.

That's why an existing T-shirt is usually your best reference.

Choosing a RARE STAG T-Shirt as a Gift

At RARE STAG, we believe a well-made T-shirt should feel considered without feeling complicated.

Our approach to fit is built around clean, wearable silhouettes that work as part of an everyday wardrobe.

If you're buying a gift, the safest starting point is usually the collection that best reflects his existing style.

RARE STAG Essentials are designed as versatile everyday foundations.

RARE STAG Signature introduces more considered design while keeping the overall aesthetic restrained.

And for a more distinctive gift, Burgundy Label represents our most considered expression.

The Best Gift Is One That Feels Like Him

Buying clothing for someone else isn't about finding something completely different.

It's about noticing what already suits them—and choosing something that fits naturally into that world.

The colour he always reaches for.

The fit he seems most comfortable in.

The fabrics he prefers.

The simplicity—or detail—he naturally gravitates towards.

When you get those things right, you don't need to know every measurement.

You simply need to know him well enough to choose something that feels like him.