GSM (grams per square metre) is the weight of one square metre of fabric, in grams; the higher the number, the heavier and usually thicker the cloth. It is only half the answer, though: at the same GSM, a tightly woven cloth from good yarn can feel cooler and last longer than a loosely woven one, so read GSM together with fibre content and weave.
How to read a GSM figure
Weight is normally listed in the fabric specification. A quick home test: cut a 10 × 10 cm square (0.01 m²) and weigh it. If it weighs 2 grams, the fabric is about 200 GSM, because 2 grams divided by 0.01 m² is 200 grams per square metre.
Keep these points in mind when comparing:
- Units: suiting is sometimes quoted in grams per linear metre or in ounces. Confirm the unit before comparing two swatches or two quotations.
- Fabric width: the same GSM on different widths gives a different weight per running metre.
- Fibre content: cotton, polyester, viscose and spandex feel different at the same GSM.
Reference GSM by garment
The ranges below are common in tailoring and are for orientation only. Exact figures for each swatch are reviewed at the design stage alongside the real fabric.
| Garment | Reference GSM | Feel when worn |
|---|---|---|
| Shirts | About 100-150 | Light, breathable, soft drape |
| T-shirts, polos | About 150-230 | Soft; piqué polos usually sit in the upper half |
| Trousers, skirts | About 200-300 | Holds shape, creases less |
| Jackets, office suits | About 220-320 | Structured, heavier in the hand |
Mon Amie Uniform has worked with many organisations, including Bệnh viện Hoàn Mỹ Sài Gòn; the photo below shows one project with this organisation.
Thicker is not the same as more durable
Many buyers follow a "heavier is better" rule, but in Ho Chi Minh City's hot, humid climate a very thick cloth traps heat, dries slowly and becomes uncomfortable after a few hours. Other factors shape durability and comfort:
- Weave: a tight weave holds its shape and resists pilling better than a loose one at the same GSM.
- Yarn quality: long, even fibres give a smoother surface with less fuzz.
- Finishing: crease-resistant and colour-fast treatments affect how the cloth ages through repeated washes.
- Colour: pale shades at low GSM can show through, so hold a swatch up to the light.
This is why a tightly woven 180 GSM T-shirt can feel better than a loosely woven 220 GSM one.
Choosing GSM by working environment
- Air-conditioned offices: slightly heavier cloth helps trousers and jackets keep their shape all day, while staying breathable.
- Outdoor or on-the-move work: favour light, breathable, quick-drying cloth and avoid thick fabric that holds sweat.
- Frequent laundering: choose a firm, colour-fast weave and avoid very thin cloth that loses shape quickly.
- T-shirts and polos: because they touch the skin, softness and absorbency matter as much as GSM.
Checking weight at sample approval
In Mon Amie's six-step process, fabric is chosen at the design stage and production starts only after your company signs off the sample. You can use that stage well:
- Ask for specifications: request GSM, fibre content and width for each swatch rather than judging by eye.
- Handle and crush: hold the cloth in your fist for a few seconds and release it to see how it recovers.
- Hold it to the light: check whether it shows through.
- Wear it for a full shift: one day shows whether the cloth feels stuffy.
- Wash it once: look for shrinkage or fading before you sign.
After the fabric is agreed, our team handles on-site tailoring, measuring each person at your office, including outside office hours, with measurements stored under employee IDs for later batches.
GSM and cost
A higher GSM does not automatically mean a higher or lower price; cost depends on fabric, style and quantity. For planning, Mon Amie publishes starting prices: T-shirts and polos from 150,000 VND (minimum 30), women's shirts from 480,000 VND, men's shirts from 600,000 VND, trousers and skirts from 600,000 VND (minimum 20), women's business suits from 1,500,000 VND and men's business suits from 3,000,000 VND (minimum 5 sets). A formal quotation follows the on-site survey.
Frequently asked questions
What GSM suits a uniform T-shirt?
The common range for T-shirts and polos is 150-230 GSM. The exact figure depends on climate, fibre content and the feel you want, so handle and test real swatches before deciding.
Is thicker fabric more durable?
Not always. Durability also depends on weave, yarn quality and finishing. In a hot, humid climate, very thick fabric also feels stuffy and dries slowly.
How can I check GSM myself?
Cut a 10 × 10 cm square, weigh it on a small precision scale and multiply by 100. This gives an approximate figure; the official specification comes from the fabric source.
Should outdoor uniforms use thin or thick cloth?
Favour light, breathable, quick-drying cloth, as long as it is not so thin that it shows through or wears out quickly. Mon Amie shows several fabric options with real swatches so you can compare.
To choose fabric and receive a proposal with a price range for your uniforms, submit your details on our quote page or call 0888.111.118 (the same number on Zalo).
