You are getting ready to buy a shirt by Polo Ralph Lauren and you have narrowed the choice down to 2. The only difference is one of the shirts is listed as a ‘custom fit’ and the other as a ‘classic fit’.

Is there a difference? Are the shirts the same? Are these just different words the sellers use in the description?

If the seller is knowledgeable of the shirts and using the terms found on the label, then yes there is a difference in the shirts.

While both are very popular cuts, there is a big difference in the fit of the shirts. A classic fit is slightly looser, gives a more relaxed fit to the cut.

A custom fit is for a slimmer build in the same size shirt. The custom fit shirt is cut differently and gives a closer to the body, tailored look when worn.

The differences may not sound like much but let’s compare the cuts. In a medium size Polo Mesh shirt a custom fit will be 1 ½” closer from shoulder to shoulder, 1” shorter on sleeve length, 3” closer on total chest, and the length from shoulder to hem will be 2” shorter.

If you are used to the classic fit, the difference is enough for you to believe the custom fit shirt is sized wrong and fits poorly like a cheap imitation.

You can purchase a custom fit in a size larger than you normally wear and you should be OK. 

This is just a general overview to help you buy the correct Polo Ralph Lauren Mesh shirt. Not all sellers are bad and not all shirts are knock offs. Please avoid the obvious and blatant imitations and shop wisely with all others.

Thanks, I hope this helps with your future purchase decisions.