Why Finding the Right Hoodie Size Matters
You might think that a hoodie is just a hoodie, but the fit of your Friends Keep Secrets hoodie can make or break your entire vibe. Getting the wrong size doesn't just look off - it can feel uncomfortable, limit how often you wear it, and even cause the fabric to wear out faster. I've talked to countless fans who raved about their perfect oversized hoodie or regretted a too-snug pullover. This guide is for anyone who wants to nail their fit the first time.
After reading this, you'll know exactly how to measure yourself, which size in our Friends Keep Secrets hoodie sizing corresponds to your measurements, and how to choose between a fitted or oversized look. Whether you're ordering for yourself or as a gift, you'll avoid the guesswork.
How to Measure Yourself for a Friends Keep Secrets Hoodie
To get accurate measurements, you need a soft measuring tape and a friend (or a mirror for solo work). Wear a thin shirt or nothing bulky. Stand naturally with your arms relaxed.
Step 1: Chest Measurement
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under the armpits. Keep it level and snug but not tight. Round to the nearest half inch. This is the most important measurement for your Friends Keep Secrets hoodie sizing.Step 2: Sleeve Length
Start from the center of the back of your neck (at the spine), run the tape over your shoulder, down your arm to your wrist bone. Let your arm hang slightly bent. This accounts for the natural curve. If you can't reach, ask a friend for help.Step 3: Body Length
Measure from the highest point of your shoulder (near the neck seam) down to where you want the hem to sit. For a standard fit, that's at the hip bone (about an inch below the waist). For oversized, add 2-3 inches.Step 4: Hip / Bottom Opening
If you want a wider or tighter bottom hem, measure around the widest part of your hips. Then use the size chart to compare with the hoodie's hem circumference.Pro tip: Always measure twice. Your body fluctuates throughout the day - morning measurements tend to be smaller. I recommend measuring after a meal or at the end of the day for a more realistic fit.
Friends Keep Secrets Hoodie Size Chart Breakdown
Our hoodie sizing is based on standard unisex sizing with a slight oversized bias - meaning even the 'regular' fit is slightly roomy compared to traditional mall brands. Here's the actual size chart for 2026 production:
| Size | Chest (inches) | Body Length (inches) | Sleeve Length (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 34-36 | 26 | 31 |
| S | 36-38 | 27 | 32 |
| M | 38-40 | 28 | 33 |
| L | 40-42 | 29 | 34 |
| XL | 43-45 | 30 | 35 |
| 2XL | 46-48 | 31 | 36 |
| 3XL | 49-51 | 32 | 37 |
Note: The chest measurement on the chart is the actual garment measurement, not your body. If your chest is 40 inches, go with size M for a fitted look or L if you want room to layer. For the Friends Keep Secrets Classic Logo Hoodie, I've found that the fabric (280 GSM cotton-polyester blend) has minimal shrinkage - maybe 2% after the first wash. So if you're between sizes, consider whether you'll machine dry or line dry. Line drying preserves size and softness.
Tips for Choosing Between Fitted and Oversized Styles
Decide Your Vibe
Fitted hoodies work well for layering under jackets or for a more polished casual look. They hug your body without being tight. Oversized hoodies (going up 1-2 sizes) are the fan favorite for lounging, layering over leggings, or creating that 'cozy' aesthetic.How Your Frame Affects the Look
On a shorter frame (under 5'4"), going more than 2 sizes up can overwhelm your silhouette - the sleeves will be comically long and the body will droop. If you want oversized but don't want to swim in fabric, consider going up just one size and then cuffing the sleeves. For taller folks (5'10" and up), standard sizing often runs short. I'd recommend going up a size for extra length in the torso and arms.When in Doubt, Use Your Favorite Hoodie
Find a hoodie you already love the fit of. Measure it flat (chest, length, sleeve) and compare to our size chart. This is the most reliable method because it accounts for your personal preference. For example, if your go-to hoodie has a 44-inch chest and you like the fit, order size L from our chart.Common Sizing Questions Answered
- I'm between sizes. Which should I choose? If you prefer a more relaxed fit, size up. If you like a trimmer look, size down. Since our hoodies are pre-shrunk cotton, they won't shrink more than a tiny bit.
- Will the hoodie shrink? First wash cold, tumble dry low - it'll stay almost identical. Hot washing can cause up to 3% shrinkage, so I'd stick with cool settings.
- Is the sizing unisex or men's/women's? It's unisex, which means it's cut straight without extra room in the hips or tapering at the waist. Women often prefer to size down one for a more fitted shape.
- What if I want a cropped look? Our standard lengths are not cropped. But you can size down for a shorter torso - just check the body length on the chart. For a true cropped look, you might need to have it hemmed by a tailor.
- How do I measure sleeve length correctly if I have broad shoulders? Start the measurement from the back of the neck, not the shoulder seam. This accounts for wider shoulders and ensures the sleeve ends at your wrist.
Pro Tips from the Community
After reviewing hundreds of fit checks in our fan forums, here are the most common insider tricks:
Tip 1: The 'Comfort Test'
Before removing tags, try on the hoodie and raise your arms above your head. If the hem rises more than 2 inches above your waist, the torso is too short. You'll be constantly tugging it down. This is especially useful for the Friends Keep Secrets oversized hoodie - you want the length to match the width.Tip 2: Wash Inside Out
This isn't just about graphics - it also preserves the fiber structure. The cotton-poly blend in our hoodies can pill if agitated too much. Turn it inside out, zip it up (if applicable), and wash with similar colors. This keeps the fabric smooth and the fit true.Tip 3: Layer Before You Decide
Put on your hoodie over a t-shirt and then a denim jacket. If it feels restrictive, go up a size. Many fans buy the hoodie for fall layering and then realize their regular size is too snug over a long sleeve. It's better to order the size that fits with your typical layering piece.Tip 4: Use the Sleeve Cuff Hack
If the sleeves are an inch or two too long, fold the cuff inside. This shortens them without altering the look. I've done this on my own hoodie and it stays put all day. For a permanent fix, a tailor can shorten sleeves for about $15.FAQ About Friends Keep Secrets Hoodie Sizing
Can I exchange my hoodie if the size doesn't fit?
Absolutely. We offer free exchanges within 30 days for unworn hoodies with tags. Visit our Contact page to start the process. We'll get you the right size quickly.Are the hoodies preshrunk?
Yes. The cotton-polyester fabric is washed during manufacturing to minimize shrinkage. After your first wash, expect less than 2% shrinkage if you follow care instructions (cold wash, low dry).How do I measure my chest accurately?
Wrap a soft tape measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it parallel to the floor. Breathe normally and don't puff out your chest. Record the measurement in inches. That's your chest size.What if I'm between two sizes?
Choose the larger size for an oversized comfortable fit, or the smaller for a more fitted look. Our hoodies are designed with a slight ease, so the smaller size won't be skin-tight unless you prefer that.Do you offer petite or tall sizes?
Not yet. Our sizing is standard unisex. However, the oversized trend works well for both petite and tall frames - just adjust your expectations. Petite customers often size down one for better proportions.
