Size & Fit Guide
Fit is part of the design. Taylored Substance uses standard size labels such as S, M, L, XL and 2XL, with numeric waist sizing on selected bottoms. The charts below are a general South African body-measurement reference to help you choose a starting size.
Important: South African clothing retailers do not all use identical measurements. These are body measurements, not the flat measurements of the finished garment. Fit can vary by cut, fabric and style, especially on oversized pieces. If you are between sizes, or prefer a looser fit, consider the next size up.
Men's / unisex tops — T-shirts, hoodies and jackets
Measure around the fullest part of your chest, under your arms, with the tape level. Waist and hip measurements are optional fit references.
| Size label | Chest (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hips (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 84–89 | 69–74 | 81–86 |
| S | 89–96 | 74–79 | 86–94 |
| M | 96–104 | 79–86 | 94–101 |
| L | 104–112 | 86–94 | 101–109 |
| XL | 112–122 | 94–104 | 109–117 |
| 2XL | 122–132 | 104–117 | 117–127 |
Reference: South African retailer apparel charts, including New Balance South Africa. Different brands and garment cuts may grade sizes differently.
Bottoms — numeric waist sizes
For jeans, trousers and shorts with numeric sizing, measure around your natural waist and the fullest part of your hips. Use the numeric waist size offered on the product page; do not assume every style uses the same conversion.
| Waist size (inches) | Approx. waist (cm) | Approx. hips (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 28 | 71–76 | 85–90 |
| 30 | 76–82 | 90–95 |
| 32 | 81–87 | 95–100 |
| 34 | 86–92 | 100–105 |
| 36 | 91–97 | 105–110 |
| 38 | 96–102 | 110–115 |
| 40 | 101–107 | 115–120 |
Numeric sizing is an approximate local reference, not a measurement of the garment itself. Elastic waistbands and relaxed fits can feel different.
How our styles fit
| Style | Fit guidance |
|---|---|
| Rewire Yourself Graphic T-Shirt | Standard fit; size up if you prefer a more relaxed look. |
| Become Your Own Form Graphic T-Shirt | Standard fit; size up if you prefer a more relaxed look. |
| Black Oversized Tee | Intentionally oversized, boxy silhouette with dropped shoulders. |
| Crest Hoodie | Oversized silhouette; check the available sizes on the product page. |
| Black Jots Shorts | Relaxed everyday fit; check the size options listed for the product. |
| Grey Tapered Sweatpants | Tapered leg with elastic waistband and cuffs. |
| Denim co-ords and matching sets | Structured fit; sizing can differ by style and set, so check the product page. |
How to measure
- Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, under your arms, keeping the tape level.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waist without pulling the tape tight.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
- Compare: If possible, compare your measurements with a similar item that fits you well.
For garment measurements, lay a similar item flat. Measure a top from armpit to armpit and double the result for an approximate circumference; measure body length from the highest shoulder point to the hem. For bottoms, measure the waistband flat and note whether it stretches.
Need help choosing?
Send us the product name, your usual size and the fit you prefer. We can help you interpret the chart before you order.
WhatsApp Taylored Substance: 061 475 0040 · Contact us · Customer Care
Our promise: We use standard size labels, but we do not claim every garment has identical measurements. This guide is a general local reference; individual product fit notes take priority.