How the Unisex Fit Lands on Women: Sizing and Measurements
Unisex apparel is typically cut for a male silhouette. That means more shoulder width, a longer torso, and less waist shaping. For a woman at 5'6" with a 36-inch chest, a unisex small fits like a women's medium in the chest, with an extra 2 to 3 inches in the shoulders and body length.
Step 1: Measure Your Chest and Shoulders
Use a fabric tape measure. Wrap it around the fullest part of your chest and keep it level. Then measure the distance from the tip of one shoulder to the other. Write both numbers down. These are the two measurements that will guide every size decision.
Pro tip: Compare your numbers to the garment spec, not to your usual women's size. A unisex medium may have a chest width of 23 inches, while a women's medium is closer to 19 inches.
Step 2: Check the Shoulder Seam
When you try on the shirt, the shoulder seam should sit exactly at the edge of your shoulder bone. If it drops 2 inches down your upper arm, the top is too big in the shoulders, no matter how the body feels. This is the most common fit issue for women.
Pro tip: For the Longevity Hoodie, the pre-washed shoulder width on a size small is 16.7 inches. To get a tailored look, you want your own shoulder measurement plus roughly 1 inch of ease.
Step 3: Assess the Body Length
The Drive Classic Tee in size small measures 27.5 inches from shoulder seam to hem. That is about 3.5 inches longer than a typical women's small. If you have a shorter torso, this extra length can feel like a dress.
Pro tip: Try the tee on and sit down. The hem should stay below your waist when standing, but not bunch up excessively when you are seated.
Step 4: Choose the Right Fabric Weight
Fabric weight changes the drape. Lightweight cotton clings, while heavier fleece holds its shape. The Longevity Hoodie uses a brushed fleece at 8.4 ounces per square yard, which gives structure without stiffness. The Stable Joggers use a midweight blend that resists bagging.
Pro tip: If you are between sizes and the garment is pre-washed, choose the smaller size for a smoother line through the hips and a shorter hem.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ordering your usual letter size without looking at the measurements. A unisex medium can be 3 to 4 inches larger at the chest than a women's medium.
- Forgetting about the shoulder seam. If the seam sits off your shoulder, the fit is wrong no matter what the size label says.
- Assuming "oversized" means comfortable. Too much fabric can cause constant pulling and adjusting during a workout.
- Ignoring shrinkage. Cotton apparel can shrink up to 4 percent in a hot wash. Always wash cold and air dry.