A overshirt can be worn open like a light jacket or buttoned over a t-shirt. In both cases, the men's overshirt sizing follows different rules than a classic tucked-in shirt. Generally, you should choose your usual size: the cut is designed to offer the necessary ease without being overly bulky. Here are the essential guidelines to avoid making a mistake.
Overshirt vs. classic shirt: why sizing doesn't work the same way
A dress shirt is worn tucked into trousers, fitted at the shoulders and chest. An overshirt, on the other hand, is worn over a layer — a t-shirt, a thin turtleneck, a light sweatshirt. Its construction already accounts for this additional volume.
Direct consequence: there's no need to size up in anticipation. If you wear an M in a shirt, take an M in an overshirt. Sizing up risks misaligning the shoulder seams and losing all visual structure.
How to take your measurements
Two measurements are sufficient to choose an overshirt accurately.
- Chest circumference: Measure at the fullest part, under the armpits, keeping the tape measure horizontal. Wear a thin t-shirt to simulate real-world wearing conditions.
- Shoulder width: From the left shoulder seam to the right shoulder seam, across the back. This is the most critical measurement — well-placed shoulders determine the entire silhouette.
Sleeve length and neck circumference are secondary for an overshirt, as the collar is usually worn open.
Indicative size chart
These guidelines are indicative. Each cut may vary slightly depending on the material and construction. Always refer to the specific size guide for each model in the Benjamin Jezequel shirt and overshirt collection.
| Size | Chest circumference (cm) | Shoulder width (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| S | 88 – 93 | 43 – 44 |
| M | 94 – 99 | 45 – 46 |
| L | 100 – 105 | 47 – 48 |
| XL | 106 – 111 | 49 – 50 |
| XXL | 112 – 117 | 51 – 52 |
The impact of material on size choice
The material influences the drape and, to a lesser extent, how it behaves after washing.
| Material | Washing behavior | Sizing advice |
|---|---|---|
| Linen | May shrink slightly on first wash | Usual size, cold wash |
| Cotton Oxford | Stable over time | Usual size |
| Flannel (brushed cotton) | Very slight loss of volume possible | Usual size, flat drying recommended |
| Chambray | Stable, develops a patina over time | Usual size |
As a general rule, a first cold wash and air drying preserve the original dimensions, regardless of the material.
Wearing open or buttoned: does the cut change things?
Worn open over a t-shirt, the overshirt acts as an unstructured jacket. Ease in the back and proper shoulder seam placement remain the decisive criteria. When worn buttoned, chest circumference becomes more important: check that you can slip a flat hand between the fabric and your torso without forcing it.
If you are between two sizes, opt for the larger one if you plan to wear it over thick items (turtleneck, light sweatshirt). For use only over a t-shirt, your usual size is sufficient.
What to do if in doubt?
Consult the exact measurements indicated on each product page of our overshirts. The dimensions are specified flat, allowing for direct comparison with your own measurements. If you remain unsure, our customer service will respond by email within 24 working hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you size up for an overshirt?
No, unless you intend to wear it over thick layers. The cut of an overshirt already incorporates the necessary ease for layering over a t-shirt or thin turtleneck. Take your usual size based on your chest circumference and shoulder width.
Does a linen overshirt shrink when washed?
Linen may experience slight shrinkage on the first wash. Washing at 30°C and drying flat or on a hanger limits this phenomenon. After this first wash, the garment stabilizes and gradually develops a patina.
How to tell if an overshirt is too small?
The two clearest signs: shoulder seams pull forward or the back forms horizontal tension creases. If the collar gapes excessively when you raise your arms, the overshirt is too tight across the back. In these cases, the next size up is necessary.
