A short upper body and fabric that bunches above the waist

Short answer: Choose tops with a short body and a high waisted bottom. The surplus fabric has to go, not be hidden inside your trousers.

Why it bunches

With a short upper body there are more centimetres of fabric than there is room between shoulder and waist. The fabric has to go somewhere, and it gathers as a roll just above the waistband. It looks like extra bulk but it is fabric.

What to look for

Body length in the size chart is the figure that decides it. If in doubt, measure a garment that sits well and use it as your limit. A short style in your normal width is the answer. See bamboo tops for women.

A high waist helps

Trousers and skirts with a high waist meet the top higher up, so there is less fabric to deal with. Combining a short top with a high waist is the simplest solution. See bamboo trousers for women.

The alteration that works

An alterations shop can shorten a top at the hem in an hour. On knitted fabric it needs a stretchy seam, so choose a workshop that handles jersey. See bamboo t-shirts for women.

Frequently asked questions

Can I just tuck the fabric into my trousers

That works but still bunches. A shorter style looks better and sits more calmly.

Are crop tops the answer

Not necessarily. An ordinary style in a short length is usually more useful.

Why do my dresses sit wrong at the waist

Because the waist seam is designed for a longer upper body. Choose styles without a defined waist seam.