Clothes for a short torso
Short answer: If you have a short torso, jumpers often sit too far down, and trousers can end too high. Here is advice on length, waistband and layers, so the clothes suit your proportions without adding bulk.
What a short torso means for clothes
A short torso means that the distance from shoulder to hip is less than average. Standard lengths on jumpers and T-shirts are cut for an average body, so they end too far down and can add bulk over the hip. Trousers can sit too high, so the waistband reaches up around the ribs. That means you should choose the length with care and give yourself time to try things on.
Tops with the right length
Choose tops that end at or just below the waistband and do not cover the whole hip. A shorter T-shirt or a slightly cropped style often works well, because the length suits your torso. See bamboo T-shirt for women for a basic style to compare with. If the jumper is too long, you can fold the hem up or tuck it into the trousers, so the length becomes better.
Shorts and waistband
With a short torso, a mid rise or lower waistband can give a better balance, because it does not pull up towards the ribs. See bamboo shorts for women. Choose a soft waistband that is not too wide and lies flat. Check that it does not press when you sit down, because a short torso has less room for the stomach between ribs and hip.
Layers that do not add bulk
Layers on a short torso can quickly become thick, because they gather in a smaller area. Choose thin layers that do not bunch up, and avoid long layers that hang down over the hip. See women's long-sleeved bamboo T-shirt for a thin layer that can be worn as a base. Let the outermost layer be the shortest, so it does not hide your clothes underneath.
Sleeves and shoulders
With a short torso the sleeves can feel long in relation to the rest. Check that the sleeves end at the wrist and the shoulder sits where it should. If the sleeves are too long, you can turn them up. Choose clothes cut straight and not too wide, so they do not seem to swallow you. Move your arms and notice whether the fabric gathers at the elbows.
Care and alterations
If a garment is too long, it can be shortened by a tailor, and that is often a simple and inexpensive solution. Wash the clothes at 30 to 40 degrees and avoid a very hot tumble dryer, which can change the fit. Keep the clothes that fit well and wash them gently. Once you know which lengths work for you, choosing new clothes becomes easier, because you can check the measurements before you buy.
Frequently asked questions
Why are jumpers too long on me
Standard lengths are cut for an average torso. Choose shorter or cropped styles, or fold the hem up.
Which waistband suits a short torso
A mid rise or lower waistband often gives a better balance. Always check that it does not press when you sit, though.
Can I have clothes altered
Yes, a tailor can shorten jumpers and trousers. It is often a simple solution if the clothes otherwise fit.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
