Written by Sonia Su

Understanding how to measure neck size is essential for achieving a comfortable and well-fitted look when choosing clothing like dress shirts, collared shirts, and suits.

After all, a well-fitted suit has the power to shape thinking and has been commonly associated with "dressing for success."

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to accurately measure neck size, whether for fashion, formal attire, or everyday comfort, ensuring that your neckwear and attire fit you perfectly and make a lasting impression.

 

The Importance of Neck Size Measurements

The average man's neck size can vary depending on factors such as age, genetics, and overall body size and shape. However, a common range for adult men's neck sizes is typically between 14 to 17 inches (35.5 to 43.2 centimeters). It's important to note that this is a general range, and individual neck sizes can fall both below and above this average.

When purchasing clothing with collars, it's essential to measure your own neck size for a precise fit rather than relying solely on averages.

For example, measuring neck size for dress shirt size is essential to ensure comfort, fit, and overall appearance. It contributes to a polished look, enhances confidence, and is a hallmark of attention to detail in dressing professionally or for formal occasions. With the correct dress shirt size using our fit guide, be sure to get add this bestselling white dress shirt to your wardrobe because it would look great at a wedding or any other big event.

Moreover, if you plan to wear ties with your dress shirts, a well-fitted collar accommodates the tie comfortably and prevents the tie from sliding around and maintains a polished look. Check out our classic black tie and maroon plaid tie.

 

A Step-by-Step Guide to Neck Measurement

To accurately determine your neck size measurement, follow these steps and tips:

1. Gather the Tools: You will need a flexible measuring tape to get an accurate measurement. Avoid using rigid materials like rulers or non-flexible tapes.
   
2. Prepare Your Posture: Stand up straight or sit comfortably with your back against a chair. Ensure your posture is natural, as an unnatural position can affect the measurement. Don't tilt your head up or down.
3. Locate the Base of Your Neck: Find the base of your neck, just above your Adam's apple. This is the point where you want the collar of your dress shirt to sit. When measuring, avoid wearing a shirt with a collar, as this can interfere with accuracy. Ensure that the tape measure is level and sits parallel to the ground. It should encircle your neck at the base, where you located it. Avoid tilting the tape measure.
4. Measure Your Neck: Take the flexible measuring tape and wrap it around your neck at the base, where you located it. Make sure the tape is snug but not so tight as to create unnecessary tension. It should be resting lightly and comfortably around your neck. Leave enough room for one finger to fit comfortably between the tape measure and your skin. While measuring, breathe normally. Don't hold your breath or puff out your neck, as this can lead to an inaccurate measurement.
   
5. Take Multiple Measurements: To ensure accuracy, take two or three measurements and calculate the average. This helps account for any slight variations in finding your dress shirt size.
6. Read and Note the Measurement: With the measuring tape in place, read the measurement in inches or centimeters. Record the measurement, as it will be useful when shopping for clothing with collar sizes, such as dress shirts. When recording your measurement, round it to the nearest quarter inch (for inches) or half centimeter (for centimeters) for simplicity.

Remember that neck size measurement can vary among individuals, so knowing your neck size ensures a comfortable and well-fitted look when choosing a dress shirt and other clothing with collars.

Once you have your neck circumference, check out these other helpful measurement guides to ensure you look sharp for any occasion:

• How to measure sleeve length
• How to shorten sleeves
• How to measure chest size
• How to measure shoulder width
• How to measure inseam
• How to measure waist
• How to measure pant length
• How to measure pants, trousers, and jeans

Neck Size Measurement Bottom Line

Mastering the art of measuring your neck size is a helpful skill for anyone seeking the perfect fit in dress shirts and collared attire. A well-measured neck size ensures not only comfort, but also a polished and professional appearance.

By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to confidently selecting dress shirts that not only flatter your physique but also enhance your overall style.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Neck Size Measurements

How do I know my neck size?

To measure your neck size for clothing purposes, use a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around the base of your neck, just above your Adam's apple. Make sure the tape measure is snug but not too tight, and then read the measurement in inches or centimeters.

Is a 16-inch or 17-inch neck big?

A 16-inch or 17-inch neck is generally considered larger than the average adult male neck circumference of about 15 inches. However, whether it's considered "big" or not can vary depending on an individual's overall body size and build, as well as personal preferences for neck size in clothing, such as a dress shirt.

Where do you measure neck collar size?

To measure your neck size accurately, use a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around the base of your neck, just above your Adam's apple, where the collar of a dress shirt would typically sit. Ensure the tape measure is snug but not too tight, and then read the neck measurement in inches or centimeters.