Sizing for a mixed-gender group takes a little more planning than a uniform group order — here’s how to approach it properly.
Step 1: Decide on Unisex vs. Gendered Fit Options
- Unisex/standard fit — one consistent sizing scale used across everyone, simplest to manage but can fit differently on different body types (often boxier and less tailored for some wearers)
- Offering both men’s and women’s fit options — allows people to choose the cut that fits them best, at the cost of slightly more complex ordering and size collection
For many casual team or event orders, unisex sizing across the board is simplest and works fine. For orders where fit and comfort matter more (e.g., a shirt people will wear regularly, not just for a single event), offering both cuts is worth the added complexity.
Step 2: Collect Actual Sizes, Not Assumptions
Don’t guess sizes based on gender alone — send out a simple size request form or survey to each team member, referencing the specific brand’s size chart (since sizing can vary between garment brands) rather than assuming a generic “small, medium, large” translates consistently for everyone.
Step 3: Reference the Correct Size Chart
If you’re offering both fits, make sure people are checking the size chart specific to the fit they’re choosing — a women’s medium and a unisex medium are often not the same measurements, and mixing this up leads to sizing surprises.
Step 4: Build In a Buffer for Uncertainty
If a few people are unsure of their size or didn’t respond to a sizing request in time, ordering a couple of extra shirts in common middle sizes (M, L) as a buffer can help you avoid a scramble for an exact-fit reorder later.
Step 5: Communicate Clearly About Fit Differences
If you’re offering both women’s and unisex fits, a short note explaining the general difference (women’s tends to be more fitted through the body and shorter in length; unisex tends to run boxier and longer) helps people make an informed choice rather than guessing.
Step 6: Consolidate Your Final Order List
Before submitting to your printer, compile a clear list: name, chosen fit (if offering both), and size — this reduces the risk of errors when your printer is fulfilling potentially dozens of individually sized items within one bulk order.
A Simple Example Process
- Send a size request form referencing your printer’s specific size chart(s)
- Collect responses with a reasonable deadline
- Compile a master list (name, fit type if applicable, size)
- Order a small buffer of common sizes for any late responses or uncertain cases
- Submit the consolidated list to your printer
The Bottom Line
Sizing a mixed-gender order well comes down to collecting actual sizes (not assumptions), referencing the correct brand-specific size chart for whichever fit each person chooses, and building in a small buffer for uncertainty. A little upfront organization here prevents a much bigger headache of individual reorders and mismatched sizes later.
