How to Measure Your Chest for a VanillaMace Hoodie
Getting the right size starts with accurate measurements. All you need is a soft measuring tape. Stand up straight with your arms relaxed at your sides. Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest - for most people, this is just under the armpits and across the shoulder blades. Make sure the tape is snug but not tight enough to compress your clothing or skin. Write down that number in inches. If you're between sizes, we recommend going up for a more relaxed silhouette or down for a closer fit. Measuring your chest is the single most reliable way to match our size chart, as it accounts for body shape and personal preference.
Understanding the Size Chart for Our Hoodies
Our size chart is designed with typical VanillaMace hoodie fits in mind. The chart lists chest width (measured flat from armpit to armpit) and body length (from shoulder seam to bottom hem). Note that these measurements are for the garment itself, not your body - they should be a few inches larger than your chest measurement to allow for ease. For example, if your chest measures 40 inches, a size Medium with a chest width of 44 inches (22 inches flat) gives you about 4 inches of positive ease, which is our standard for a comfortable everyday fit. Always compare your body measurement to the garment measurements, not the size label. Our chart also includes sleeve length from center back, which is helpful if you have longer or shorter arms.
What Fit to Expect: Relaxed vs. Oversized Styles
VanillaMace hoodies come in two main silhouettes: relaxed and oversized. The relaxed fit is our baseline - it's roomy through the body and sleeves without being baggy. If you prefer a traditional hoodie shape that layers nicely under a jacket, choose your true size. The oversized fit, seen in designs like the Cloud Hoodie, adds 6 to 8 inches of extra width and slightly dropped shoulders. If you're between sizes in an oversized style, sizing down still gives a loose look while preventing the hem from falling too low. Check the product description on each hoodie page to see which fit it uses. When in doubt, our relaxed style is the safest bet for a classic look.
Customer Feedback on Sizing Accuracy
Community feedback helps us refine our sizing. Most customers find that relaxed-fit hoodies run true to size when following the chest measurement method. For oversized styles, buyers often report that they wish they had sized down - particularly if they are between sizes or plan to wear the hoodie without a thick layer underneath. On the flip side, taller customers (over 6 feet) appreciate the generous length in both fits. A common tip from our community: if you want a cropped look in an oversized hoodie, size down and expect the sleeves to be slightly shorter. We update our size charts periodically based on this feedback, so always check the chart for the specific hoodie you are ordering.
