Visit suit shops to find the right vest.
To locate a size 54 Short men's vest, change your routine. Abandon big-box retailers for a men's suit store. A size 54 vest accommodates a man with a 52 inch chest, with 2 to 2-1/2 additional inches of fabric for ease for movement. Short-sized vests, signified with an "S" or "Short," feature not only a shorter length, but scaled-down embellishments for men under 5' 8" tall. Sometimes manufacturers use a letter size, particularly for sweater vests and other less-structured styles. Size 54 corresponds to size XXXL, also expressed as 3XL.
Instructions
1. Use a measuring tape to verify your size.
Verify your chest measurements, especially if you're not in the habit of wearing tailored clothing. Ask a friend or a tailor for help. Use a fabric or flexible-fabric measuring tape. If you measure 54 inches, consider trying on both a size 54 and a 56.
2. Department stores don't always have a large selection of short sizes.
Visit your local suit or menswear store. Mid-range department stores typically carry the best-selling sizes. A store selling suits exclusively will have a range of shorter and larger styles on hand.
3. Try on vests in size 54, if your chest measures just shy of that dimension. Stand up straight. Move your arms behind your back and forward check the fit. Sit on a bench or chair. The vest should not ride up.
4. Consult a tailor for personalized recommendations. Some men can wear clothing off the rack, but tailoring can give better results. If your physique is athletic, minor tailoring may be required to reduce excess material across the stomach. If your abdomen is proportionately larger and the last button is a bit tight, choose a vest one size up and tailor the shoulders or move the buttons slightly for a custom fit.
Tags: measuring tape, your chest