Whats the logic behind men's shirt sizing?

[ms244]

Could someone please explain to me how exactly the sizing of a men's shirt works?

It seems to me that the only two "sizes" provided are the neck diameter and sleeve length? Why so? Some of the Euro shirts have a chest size too, how does it correspond to suit sizing?

And finally, how do I convert all of this to figure out what size shirt I need?

Thanks, and if its been covered before, sorry, and I would appreciate a link to the previous posts. Searching for shirt sizing yields about half of the posts on SF.

 

[CoryB]

The only two measurements given are neck and sleeve. I think the chest measurement you are referring to is neck size in centimeters (it roughly corresponds); for example 15.75" and 40cm both refer to neck. To measure your neck use a measuring tape and place two fingers between the tape and your neck. Correct sleeve measurement is pretty easy to determine once trying on shirt; it is measured from the center seam to cuff. If it is written 32-33 then it can be converted based upon the tightness of the cuff.

Now that you have the basics, everything else is pretty much trial. Shirt bodies, sleeve width, etc. all very based upon manufacturer and your personal style.