Complete Men’s Ethnic Wear Sizing Guide

Many ethnic wear retailers provide insufficient sizing guidance, forcing customers to make purchasing decisions without understanding how traditional garments should properly fit. The sizing and fit of ethnic clothing varies significantly based on multiple factors including fabric type, intended occasion, personal style preferences, and whether the garment is for formal or casual wear. At The Akshra, we are committed to transparency and empowering our customers with comprehensive knowledge and detailed information, enabling them to confidently select the perfect size for their specific needs and occasions. Our goal is to eliminate guesswork and ensure every customer finds their ideal fit.

How to Measure Yourself

1. Chest/Bust

• Measure around the fullest part of your chest
• Keep the tape measure parallel to the floor
• Breathe normally and don't pull the tape too tight

2. Waist

• Measure around your natural waistline (usually just above the hip bone)
• This is typically the narrowest part of your torso

3. Hip

• Measure around the fullest part of your hips
• Keep feet together while measuring

4. Shoulder Width

• Measure from one shoulder point to the other across your back
• Or measure across the front from shoulder seam to shoulder seam on a well-fitting shirt

5. Sleeve Length

• Measure from the shoulder point down to your wrist
• Keep your arm slightly bent at your side

6. Length Measurements

• Kurta Length: From shoulder to desired hemline (typically mid-thigh to knee)
• Inseam: From crotch to ankle for pajamas/pants
• Outseam: From waist to ankle along the outer leg

Size Chart

Size	Chest (inches)	Waist (inches)	Hip (inches)	Shoulder (inches)	Sleeve Length (inches)
XS	34-36	28-30	34-36	16-17	24-25
S	36-38	30-32	36-38	17-18	25-26
M	38-40	32-34	38-40	18-19	26-27
L	40-42	34-36	40-42	19-20	27-28
XL	42-44	36-38	42-44	20-21	28-29
XXL	44-46	38-40	44-46	21-22	29-30
3XL	46-48	40-42	46-48	22-23	30-31

Garment-Specific Fit Guidelines

Kurtas

Traditional Fit:

• Should be comfortable around chest with 2-4 inches of ease
• Length typically falls mid-thigh to just above the knee
• Sleeves should reach the wrist bone
• Armholes should allow comfortable movement

Slim Fit:

• Closer to body with 1-2 inches of ease
• More tapered through the waist
• Modern, contemporary silhouette

Sherwanis

Classic Fit:

• More structured and formal than kurtas
• Should fit snugly at chest and shoulders
• Length typically to mid-thigh or knee
• Collar should sit comfortably at neck base
• Allow room for layering over kurta if needed

Pajamas/Churidars

Pajamas (Loose fit):

• Comfortable fit at waist
• Relaxed through hips and thighs
• Tapered at ankles
• 1-2 inches longer than your inseam for proper draping

Churidars (Fitted):

• Snug fit through legs
• Should gather naturally at ankles
• Fitted but not restrictive

Pathani Suits

Kameez (Top):

• Similar to kurta but typically shorter
• Falls around hip level
• Comfortable fit through chest

Salwar (Bottom):

• Loose through thighs, tapered at ankles
• Comfortable elastic or drawstring waist
• Should allow for comfortable sitting and movement

Jackets/Nehru Jackets

• Should fit like a well-tailored blazer
• Comfortable across shoulders and chest
• Length typically to hip or slightly below
• Armholes should allow layering over kurta

Fit Recommendations by Occasion

Casual/Everyday Wear

• Fit: Regular to relaxed
• Fabric: Cotton, cotton blends
• Length: Mid-thigh for kurtas
• Comfort: Priority on movement and breathability

Formal/Office Wear

• Fit: Regular to slim
• Fabric: Cotton, linen, silk blends
• Length: Knee-length for kurtas
• Styling: Well-tailored, crisp appearance

Wedding/Special Events

• Fit: Well-tailored, can be more fitted
• Fabric: Silk, brocade, rich fabrics
• Length: Longer kurtas, full-length sherwanis
• Details: Embellishments, intricate work

Festival/Religious Occasions

• Fit: Comfortable, traditional
• Fabric: Natural fibers preferred
• Length: Traditional lengths
• Colors: Appropriate to occasion

Alterations

Professional Alteration Recommendations

• Always consult with experienced tailors familiar with ethnic wear
• Bring the complete outfit for proper fit assessment
• Consider the drape and fall of the fabric
• Allow extra fabric for future adjustments if possible

Size Conversion Guide

International Sizing

Indian/Asian	US	UK	European
S	XS	32	42
M	S	34	44
L	M	36	46
XL	L	38	48
XXL	XL	40	50

Fit Tips and Common Mistakes

Do's

• ✅ Always measure yourself before ordering
• ✅ Consider the occasion and required fit
• ✅ Check fabric content for stretch and drape
• ✅ Read size charts specific to each brand
• ✅ Consider professional tailoring for special occasions

Don'ts

• ❌ Don't assume your size is the same across all brands
• ❌ Don't ignore fabric care instructions that might affect fit
• ❌ Don't order too tight - ethnic wear needs comfort for traditional sitting and movement
• ❌ Don't forget to account for undershirts or layering

When in Doubt

Contact Customer Service at (937) 794-2783 or info@fayruh.com

• Provide your measurements
• Describe your preferred fit
• Mention the occasion
• Ask about return/exchange policies

Size Up Rather Than Down

• Ethnic wear often looks better with a comfortable fit
• Easier to take in than let out
• Allows for natural draping of fabrics
• More comfortable for extended wear during events

Care Instructions Impact on Fit

First Wash

• Natural fabrics may shrink 2-5%
• Pre-shrunk fabrics minimize this issue
• Always follow care label instructions

Long-term Care

• Proper storage maintains shape
• Professional cleaning for embellished pieces
• Steam rather than iron when possible to maintain drape

Proper ethnic wear sizing ensures comfort during traditional sitting, religious ceremonies, and extended wear at celebrations.