When it comes to men’s formalwear, understanding suit sizes is essential for a perfect fit and polished look. Among the popular suit sizes, 42 is a common one that serves a broad group of men. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 42 suit size, including how to measure yourself, what this size means in terms of jacket and trouser dimensions, different fits (short, regular, long), and tips for achieving the best fit.
42 Suit Size Calculator
The number “42” in a suit size primarily refers to the chest measurement in inches. This sizing is based on measuring around the fullest part of your chest, just under your armpits and across your shoulder blades, usually in inches. A size 42 jacket is designed to fit someone with approximately a 42-inch chest circumference.
However, the chest size alone does not define the entire suit. Suit sizes are usually paired with a letter denoting the length of the jacket:
- S (Short): For men with a shorter torso or shorter arms.
- R (Regular): The most common length for average height men.
- L (Long): For taller men with longer torsos and arms.
For example:
- Size 42S is size 42 chest with a short jacket length.
- Size 42R is size 42 chest with a regular jacket length.
- Size 42L is size 42 chest with a long jacket length.
Jacket Dimensions for a Size 42 Suit
For a 42 suit jacket, typical key measurements include:
| Measurement | Typical Range for Size 42 (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chest | 42 – 44 | Primary measurement defining suit size |
| Waist | 36 – 38 | Waist measurement of jacket |
| Sleeve length | 32 – 36 | Varies by short, regular, or long fits |
| Jacket length | ~29 – 31 | Depends on jacket length (S, R, L) |
| Height range | 5’9″ – 6’4″ | Regular to Long fits |
For example, according to various size charts, a 42 Regular suit jacket fits someone approximately 5’9″ to 6’0″ tall with a chest measurement around 42 inches and a waist of about 36 inches.
Trousers Size Matching a 42 Suit Jacket
Suit jackets and trousers often come sold as a set, and trouser sizes are designed to coordinate with the jacket size. For a 42 suit jacket, the typical trousers size is around 36 inches waist (sometimes listed as size 36 trousers). The trouser leg length can vary depending on the regularity of fit, but adjustments are usually possible.
From sizing guides:
| Jacket Size | Trouser Waist Size |
|---|---|
| 42R | 36 |
| 42L | 36 |
| 42S | 36 |
Note, trousers can be tailored easily at the waist or length, so if your natural waist is a bit different, that’s usually not an issue.
How to Measure Yourself for a Size 42 Suit
To find whether a 42 suit size fits you, take accurate body measurements:
- Chest: Wrap a tape measure around the fullest part of your chest, under the armpits and across the shoulder blades. Keep the tape snug but not tight.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline, just below the navel.
- Sleeve Length: Measure from the shoulder tip down to the wrist.
- Height: Knowing your height helps determine if you should choose Short, Regular, or Long.
If your chest is about 42 inches, you are likely a good fit for a 42 suit jacket. Next, consider your height and arm length for the best fitting length category (S, R, or L).
Suit Fits: Short, Regular, and Long For Size 42
Understanding the letter that comes with the number is just as critical as the number itself.
- 42 Short (42S): For shorter men, usually under 5’8″. These suits have shorter sleeves, armholes, and shorter jacket length. Sleeves typically measure less than 33 inches.
- 42 Regular (42R): Fits men approximately 5’9″ to 6’0″. Sleeves around 33-34 inches. This is the most common length and suitable for average builds.
- 42 Long (42L): For tall men above 6’1″ with longer arms and torsos. Sleeve length is longer, often around 35-36 inches or more.
The correct length choice helps the jacket sit naturally at the wrist and allows trousers to have the proper break on the shoe.
Weight and Body Type Considerations for a 42 Suit Size
While the number and length reflect chest and height, the fit also depends on body shape and weight. Suit charts typically correlate weight to size:
- Size 42 suits generally fit men weighing between 170 to 190 lbs, but this can vary depending on muscle mass and body composition.
- A broad-shouldered or muscular build might require mix-and-match options for jacket and trousers because your chest and waist ratio might differ from standard suit proportions.
Adjustments and Alterations
It is common to buy a suit that fits most of your measurements but tweak some details:
- Sleeve length shortening or lengthening
- Trousers waist and leg length alterations
- Taking in/out the jacket waist for a custom silhouette
Buying a suit off-the-rack with a 42 designation will be an excellent starting point, but be ready to visit a tailor for small adjustments to achieve a perfect fit.
Suit Styles Available in Size 42
You can find size 42 suits in many styles:
- Classic Fit: More room in the chest and waist for comfort.
- Slim Fit: Takes in the jacket waist and narrows the shoulders, suited for a modern silhouette.
- Modern Fit: A balance between classic and slim; contours the body without being tight.
Each style influences how the 42 size feels and looks on you.
How to Choose the Best 42 Suit for You
- Know your measurements precisely. Use a tape measure or get professionally measured.
- Decide which style fits your body shape and occasion. A slim fit looks sharp for formal events; classic fit is comfortable for everyday use.
- Choose a length (S, R, L) based on your height and arm length to ensure the jacket sleeves and trousers adequately fit.
- Purchase from reputable brands offering detailed size charts and alteration services.
- Consider mix-and-match where jacket and trousers can be bought in different sizes for customized fit if your waist-to-chest ratio is unusual.
Summary Table: Size 42 Suit Dimensions at a Glance
| Feature | Typical Measurement (Size 42) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chest | 42 – 44 inches | Main jacket sizing metric |
| Waist (jacket) | 36 – 38 inches | Slightly smaller than chest |
| Sleeves | 32 – 36 inches | Varies by S, R, L length |
| Jacket Length | ~29 – 31 inches | Depends on fit & height |
| Height Range | 5’9″ – 6’4″ | For regular and long fits |
| Trouser Waist | 36 inches | Usually matches jacket size |
| Trouser Length | Adjustable | Tailored according to leg length |
Final Tips on Buying a 42 Suit
- Always try the suit on if possible to check movement, fit, and comfort.
- Keep in mind that fabric type and suit construction impact how the fit feels.
- Pay attention to shoulder fit — a king-maker for how the suit looks overall.
- Don’t hesitate to get professional tailoring for the best results.
- Remember jacket size and trouser sizes can be ordered separately or mixed for best comfort.
Knowing your 42 suit size details helps you make confident and informed purchasing decisions and ensures you look sharp and feel comfortable. Whether you’re buying your first suit or upgrading your formal wardrobe, understanding the nuances of the number, length, and fit will make all the difference.