Most fit problems are bought, not made. A few minutes with a tape measure — and a clear idea of what should fit where — will save you an exchange. Here is the approach we recommend across our range.
Start with the shoulders
In any jacket or overshirt, the shoulder seam should sit at the natural end of your shoulder bone. Nearly everything else — waist, sleeve, length — can be adjusted by a competent alterations tailor; the shoulder essentially cannot. If you are between sizes in a jacket, choose the size whose shoulder fits and have the waist taken in.
Chest and shirting
Measure around the fullest part of your chest, under the arms, with the tape level. Our shirts are cut with a gentleman's ease through the body: if you prefer them worn open over a tee, as styled in our photography, stay true to size; for a closer fit worn buttoned, consider one size down. Collar points should sit flat against the chest without lifting.
Trousers and the question of break
Trouser waists are measured flat and doubled — our sizes refer to the nominal waist in inches. Wear the trouser at your natural waist, not on the hip. As for length: a full break pools slightly on the shoe; a half break — our house preference — kisses the top of the shoe with a single soft fold; no break ends cleanly above it. Drawstring and elasticated styles are more forgiving through the waist; if between sizes there, size down.
Knitwear
Fine-gauge knitwear should skim, not cling. True to size suits most; size up for a relaxed drape over a shirt.
Still unsure?
Every product page lists the garment's cut alongside its composition. For anything else, write to contact@halsworthhayes.shop with your height, weight and usual sizes, and we will recommend one — and remember that UK returns and exchanges are free of drama under our 30-day returns policy.