The Differences Between Big, Tall, Big & Tall, and Plus Size
What's the Difference Between Big, Tall, Big and Tall, and Plus Sizes?
By LogoSportswear | Updated on August 2, 2023
When it comes to clothes, comfort is key. It's important to feel good in what you're wearing all day long, and it starts with finding the right fit. To make things even trickier, sizes can vary between brands and products. Luckily, things are changing for the better. There are now more sizes and styles available than ever before, and many are designed to suit every body.
If you're looking into buying clothes for larger sizes and you're not sure whether your body type falls under big, tall, big and tall, or plus size, we will help break it down for you in this article.
Regular Sizes vs. Big and Tall Sizes
If you're under 6" tall, and usually wear XL, then you're a regular size. If you require more room around the body and additional length in sleeves, rise, and trouser lengths, and you wear sizes above XL, then you belong in the big and tall size category.
Big and Tall Sizes Explained: Key Differences
| Size | Targeted Body Types | Body Parts Catered To | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big | Larger individuals | Neck, shoulders, chest |
|
| Tall | Men 6'2" and taller | Torso length, arm length |
|
| Big and Tall | Taller and larger individuals | Chest, waist, torso length, arm length |
|
| Plus Size | Individuals with curvier body | Bust, waist, hips |
|
What Does Big Mean?
"Big" size refers to sizes that are specifically designed for larger individuals and its measurements are focused on the neck, shoulders, and chest. In the past, finding clothes that fit has always been a struggle for big guys. These days, many brands are embracing diversity in body shapes and are expanding their product lines to accommodate larger sizes. This means larger men can feel confident and stylish in clothing that makes them look and feel their best, and they don't have to choose between fit and quality - they can have both. And even better than that, "big" sizes are made with the same material and high-quality assembly as any other item on the market.
What Does Tall Mean?
"Tall" size is designed for men who are 6'2" or taller and with longer arm and torso measurements. This specific size considers factors such as height, arm length, inseam, and torso length. Tall sizes address the issues of shirts whose length are too and whose sleeves don't reach the wrists by adding extra inches to the torso and sleeves to ensure proper fit and proportional styling.
What does Big and Tall mean?
"Big and Tall" is specifically made for taller men who also have a larger chest and waist. It combines the features of both big and tall sizes, offering extra room for the body as well as additional length for the torso and sleeves. To achieve your best fit, look for sizes up to 5XLT when shopping shirts.
What does Plus Size mean?
"Plus size" is designed for women with larger measurements in the bust, waist, and hips. This size usually falls between size 14W and 24W and is meant to accommodate curves.
Plus-sized shirts may include variations such as "Tall" for women above 5'8" and "Petite" for women under 5'4". X sizes (1X, 2X, etc.) and cover a range of numerical sizes.
Tips on Finding the Right Fit
- Know your measurements. When shopping for big and tall clothing, the first thing to do is to make sure that you know your body measurements including the chest, waist, and inseam. You may use size charts provided by the brands you're shopping with to find clothes in their collection that will fit you perfectly. If you're ordering for your team or organization, remember to share the garment dimensions and size charts with your team so that they can determine the correct size for them. If you need help in determining the correct size, check out our step-by-step guide.
- Consider the material and fit. Choose fabrics and fits that provide comfort and flexibility. Look for the different types of fits and consider their features to ensure comfort for individuals with various body types.
- Ask for samples. Whenever possible, request samples that you can try on before making a purchase. If this isn't possible, make sure the company has an amenable return policy so that you can send back things that don't fit right.
- Read reviews. When looking into potential purchases, it's beneficial to check out reviews and customer feedback. This will help you gain insights from others with similar body types, and assess the fit, comfort, and overall satisfaction of the products you're interested in.
- Shop with size-inclusive brands. Shopping with size-inclusive brands is highly beneficial. It's very likely that these brands understand the unique needs of diverse body types and that they would offer a wide range of options that fit well, feel comfortable, and will enhance your appearance. You'll also be able to express your personal style with full confidence, regardless of your size.
- Focus on comfort and form. Clothes are best worn when you feel relaxed and comfortable in them. Keep in mind that finding the "perfect fit" isn't just about measurements - it's also about feeling and looking good in the clothes you choose.
Now that you understand the differences between the sizes, hopefully you'll have an easier time shopping for shirts and clothes. Pay close attention to individual product measurements as not all products are cut and created equal. A size 2XL from one brand might be a size 3XL at another.
And, of course, if you need custom apparel in these sizes, LogoSportswear has got you covered with beloved brands like Carhartt, Columbia, Charles River, and Eddie Bauer all of which offer a variety of sizes. What apparel questions do you have? Let us know and we'll try to answer them!