Unisex vs Women’s T-Shirts: What Is the Difference and Which Fits Better?
The label says unisex, but what does that mean for fit? A unisex t-shirt is cut to be worn by anyone, and in practice that usually means a straighter, roomier shape than a typical women’s tee. Here is how unisex vs women’s t-shirt cuts differ and how to pick a size you will like.
The short answer
Unisex tees are generally cut straighter through the body, with wider shoulders and chest. Women’s tees are usually more tapered at the waist, with narrower shoulders, shorter sleeves and often a different neckline. Neither is better. They simply fit differently, and sizes are not directly comparable between brands. All of our tees use unisex sizing.
Unisex vs women’s t-shirt at a glance
| Feature | Unisex cut | Women’s cut |
|---|---|---|
| Body shape | Straighter, less taper at the waist | More fitted, tapered at the waist |
| Shoulders and chest | Wider | Narrower |
| Sleeves | Usually longer and roomier | Often shorter and slimmer |
| Length | Often longer | Often cropped or slightly shorter |
| Neckline | Usually a crew neck | Crew, scoop or V-neck |
| Best for | A relaxed, easy fit that anyone can wear | A closer, more shaped fit |
How to choose a size in a unisex tee
- Measure a shirt you already love. Lay it flat and measure the chest width and length.
- Compare with the Size Guide. Our Size Guide lists garment measurements in inches and centimeters for unisex sizes, so you can match your favorite tee directly.
- Decide how you want it to fit. For a closer fit, many people go down one size from their usual women’s size. For a relaxed or oversized look, stay with your usual size or go up one.
- Check the shoulders. If the shoulder seam would sit past the edge of your shoulder, you may prefer a smaller size.
Our walkthrough on how to choose t-shirt size covers the method in more detail.
The blank changes the fit too
Even among unisex tees, cuts differ. The Comfort Colors 1717 tees we use are relaxed, while the Bella+Canvas 3001 tees are listed with a slim retail fit. The same letter size will therefore feel different between them. We compare the two in Comfort Colors vs Bella+Canvas, and each product page tells you which blank a design uses.
Getting the look you want
- Relaxed and easy: keep your usual size in a relaxed-fit tee.
- Oversized: go up one size, and check that the length suits you.
- Closer to the body: go down one size or choose a slimmer blank.
- Tucked or layered: a relaxed fit layers easily. Our guide to styling a graphic t-shirt in every season has ideas.
Do not forget shrinkage
Cotton can tighten after washing, especially with heat. If you plan to wash warm or dry hot, the larger size is the safer pick, or follow our tips in do cotton t-shirts shrink? to avoid the issue.
One important note on returns
Because every shirt is made to order, we cannot accept returns for a wrong size, so it is worth measuring first. If an item arrives damaged, defective or misprinted, we replace it or refund you. Details are in our Returns policy.
Frequently asked questions
Are unisex tees only for men?
No. Unisex means the cut is designed to work for anyone. It tends to be roomier, which many people of every gender prefer.
Do unisex tees run big?
Compared with a fitted women’s tee, they often feel roomier. How much depends on the blank, so compare the garment measurements.
Should I size down?
Only if you want a closer fit. For a relaxed look, your usual size usually works.
Which of your tees are the most relaxed?
The Comfort Colors 1717 designs are cut in a relaxed fit. Check the product page for the blank and fit of any design.
Ready to find your size? Check the Size Guide and browse the apparel collection.