How should I size a unisex hoodie?

Short answer: A unisex hoodie is usually built on one block that fits a range of body shapes, so it works best when the fit is relaxed and the size chart is clear. Problems arise when a men's block is used without adjustment, because shoulder width, sleeve length and body length then suit men's proportions and are too long or wide for many women in the same chest size. A better approach is to choose a relaxed or oversized fit that tolerates different shoulder widths, check sleeve and body length on both men and women at each size, and extend the size range downwards, for example to XS or XXS, if many women customers are expected. Publish size charts in body measurements as well as garment measurements. ISO 8559-1 defines how body dimensions are measured, and ISO 8559-2 designates clothing sizes by body dimensions, with girth measurements such as chest or bust as primary dimensions for upper-body garments. Using body ranges on the chart lets customers choose by their own measurements. Then give fit guidance, such as the height and size of models in men's and women's photos, so customers see how the same size fits different bodies.

Why men's blocks fail as unisex

• Shoulders too wide for many women.
• Sleeves and body too long.
• Smallest size too large.

Building a unisex range

• Choose a relaxed or oversized fit.
• Check fit on men and women at each size.
• Extend the range downwards if needed.
• Adjust sleeve length grading.

Size charts and guidance

• Body measurements and garment measurements.
• Model height and size worn.
• Notes on intended fit.

A worked example

As an illustration, a brand could fit sizes S and M on both a woman and a man of matching chest or bust measurements, shorten sleeves slightly if they are too long on the woman, and add an XS to the range.

Hood and neck

Hood size and neck opening should suit smaller heads in the small sizes. Grade the hood so small sizes do not look oversized.

Naming and labelling sizes

Decide whether to use letter sizes only or to add body measurement ranges on the label or hangtag. Avoid mixing men's and women's size names on one unisex product, which confuses customers about which chart applies.

Limits

A single block cannot fit every body shape. Clear sizing information helps customers choose, but some will still need to size up or down.

Facts, recommendations and uncertainty

Established: unisex sizing works best with relaxed fits and clear body-measurement charts. Recommendation: fit on men and women at each size and adjust grading. Uncertain: the balance of men and women among your customers.

Sources and further reading

• ISO 8559-1:2017 — Size designation of clothes: anthropometric definitions for body measurement
• ISO 8559-2:2025 — Size designation of clothes: primary and secondary dimension indicators

Standards and regulations are referenced by their published scope. Test parameters, cycles and pass levels should be agreed with your laboratory for the specific product; legal requirements should be confirmed for each destination market.