Most kurta returns happen for one reason: the size was guessed. Kurtas are cut differently from shirts – longer, looser through the body, and the fit depends on where you measure. This guide shows you how to measure at home in five minutes, how to read a kurta size chart, and how each style (straight, A-line, short, indo-western) is supposed to fit.
Step 1: Take Four Measurements
Use a soft measuring tape over a thin t-shirt. Stand straight, breathe normally.
- Chest: around the fullest part of the chest, tape flat under the arms.
- Shoulder: from the edge of one shoulder bone to the other, across the back.
- Sleeve length: from the shoulder edge to the wrist bone.
- Kurta length: from the highest point of the shoulder down to where you want the hem – mid-thigh for short kurtas, just above the knee for regular, at the knee for long.
Optional but useful: waist (around the navel) for slim-fit and indo-western styles.
Step 2: Read the Size Chart Correctly
Most Indian kurta charts list garment chest, not body chest. The kurta should have 2–4 inches of ease over your body measurement for a regular fit, 1–2 inches for a slim fit.
| Size | Body Chest (in) | Kurta Chest (in) | Shoulder (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 36–37 | 38–40 | 16.5–17 |
| M | 38–39 | 40–42 | 17–17.5 |
| L | 40–41 | 42–44 | 17.5–18 |
| XL | 42–43 | 44–46 | 18–18.5 |
| XXL | 44–45 | 46–48 | 18.5–19 |
| 3XL | 46–47 | 48–50 | 19–19.5 |
This is a general guide. Always check the size chart on the individual product page – cuts vary by style and fabric.
Step 3: Know How Each Style Should Fit
Straight-Cut Kurta (Regular Fit)
The everyday and festival standard. It should skim the chest without pulling at the buttons, the shoulder seam should sit on your shoulder bone, and the hem should fall just above the knee. If it hugs the stomach, size up.
Example: Dark Blue Rayon Kurta Set with White Cotton Pyjama.
Embroidered / Festive Kurta
Embroidery adds stiffness at the neckline and placket, so these run slightly less forgiving than plain kurtas. Go by your chest measurement, not your usual t-shirt size.
Example: Emerald Green Rayon Embroidery Kurta Set.
Indo-Western (Slim / Structured Fit)
Indo-westerns are cut close to the body like a jacket, with a defined waist. Measure chest and waist; if your waist is more than 6 inches smaller than your chest, you may need alterations at the waist after buying by chest size.
Example: Sky Blue Silk Foil Print Indo-Western.
Kurta-Sherwani Set
The outer sherwani layer needs an extra inch of room over the kurta beneath it. Size the set by chest; the inner kurta is cut to fit under the outer layer.
Example: Green Kurta Sherwani Set.
Kurta Length Guide
- Short (mid-thigh): casual, with jeans or straight trousers. Best for men under 5'7".
- Regular (above knee): festivals and functions, with pyjama or churidar. Works for every height.
- Long (at or below knee): weddings and formal events. Best for men over 5'9" – it can shorten a smaller frame.
Fit by Body Type
- Slim: straight-cut in a size that fits the shoulder exactly; avoid too much ease in the body.
- Athletic (broad chest, narrow waist): buy by chest, take in the waist for indo-westerns.
- Broad / heavier build: A-line or straight-cut with side slits, darker colours, minimal chest embroidery, regular length.
- Tall: long kurtas, wider pyjama or Patiala-style bottoms for proportion.
Bottoms: Pyjama, Churidar or Trousers?
- Cotton pyjama: comes with most sets; measure waist and length (waist to ankle).
- Churidar: should be 6–8 inches longer than your leg to gather at the ankle.
- Straight trousers: for indo-westerns; same size as your regular trousers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ordering your shirt size – kurta sizing is by chest, not by S/M/L habit.
- Ignoring the shoulder – a wrong shoulder cannot be altered; a slightly wide chest can.
- Buying long kurtas when short – the hem line decides how tall you look.
- Forgetting fabric shrinkage – cotton can shrink 2–3% after the first wash; rayon and silk do not.
FAQs
Should a kurta be tight or loose? Neither – it should follow the shoulder line and skim the chest with 2–4 inches of ease.
Do rayon kurtas shrink? Very little. Cotton kurtas may shrink slightly; wash cold and air dry.
What if I am between sizes? Go up for straight-cut and embroidered kurtas; go by chest and alter the waist for indo-westerns.
Every product at VJV Now has its own size chart on the page. Browse men's kurta sets, indo-westerns and sherwanis.
