Size M vs L: What Really Matters for Irish Clothing Fits

When you're choosing between a size M, a medium clothing size commonly sold in Irish retailers like Penneys and ASOS and a size L, a large size that often feels too roomy or too loose in Irish fits, you're not just picking a number—you're guessing how a brand designed it for someone who might not look like you. In Ireland, sizing doesn’t follow global standards. A size M from an Irish brand like K&G or a local Dublin designer might fit like a size L from a UK chain. And that’s because Irish clothing is cut for real bodies—not runway models. You can be 5'10" and still need a size M if your chest is 38 inches. Or you could be 5'6" and need a size L if you carry weight in your shoulders. It’s not about height. It’s about build, fabric stretch, and how the brand tailors for Irish weather—where layering matters more than looks.

What you wear under your jacket or over your base layer changes everything. If you’re buying a t-shirt, a basic top worn daily in Ireland, often in cotton or blends designed for damp conditions, a size M might hug your torso just right, but a size L could sag after one wash. Irish t-shirts are made to last through rain, wind, and repeated laundry—not to drape like a tent. Same goes for suits, structured outerwear worn for work and events, where fit determines both comfort and professionalism in Irish settings. A size L suit might look baggy on a slim frame, but on a broader build, it’s the only way to fit a wool coat over it without pulling at the seams. That’s why Irish men who are big but not tall are told to go for a size L with a shorter jacket length. It’s not about being big—it’s about balance. And if you’re shopping online, you’re not just guessing your size—you’re guessing how a brand from Cork or Dublin sees the average Irish body. Most Irish retailers don’t offer half sizes. So you pick M or L and hope the sleeves aren’t too long, the waist isn’t too tight, and the shoulders don’t ride up when you reach for the kettle.

There’s no universal rule. But there are clues. Check the product measurements. Look at the chest width, not just the size label. See if the description mentions "true to size" or "runs small"—Irish brands often do. Read reviews from other Irish buyers. They’ll tell you if a size M fits like a snug hug or a loose float. And if you’re unsure? Go with the size that matches your chest measurement, not your height. Because in Ireland, your body doesn’t care about averages. It cares about comfort, movement, and staying dry. Below, you’ll find real advice from people who’ve been there—on what fits, what doesn’t, and why your next t-shirt or jacket might need a whole new approach to sizing.