Clothes for broad shoulders
Short answer: If you have broad shoulders, the shoulder line and sleeves often decide whether clothes fit well. Here is concrete advice on cut, size and fabric, so you avoid tightness across the chest and sleeves that squeeze.
The shoulder line is the most important thing
When you try on a jumper or T-shirt, start with the shoulder seam. It should sit exactly where the shoulder ends and the arm begins. If it sits too far in, the fabric pulls across the upper arm, and if it sits too far out, the sleeve hangs limp. With broad shoulders, many sizes have the shoulder seam too far in, because they are cut for a narrower upper body. Try several brands and cuts, and trust the shoulders more than the size label.
Size and waist pull in different directions
Many people with broad shoulders find that a size that fits over the shoulders is too big at the waist. That is a perfectly ordinary problem, and the answer is rarely to give up. Choose a top that fits in the shoulders, and choose a cut that falls straight rather than a very close one. A straight cut gives room across the width, but not too much fabric below. See bamboo T-shirts for men, where you can compare fit and length.
The sleeves and the armhole
Broad shoulders often go with stronger upper arms, and then the width of the sleeve matters. A sleeve that pulls at the upper arm limits movement and rolls up at the elbow. Choose sleeves with a little extra width and an armhole that does not cut in under the arm. Fabric with some stretch gives more freedom when you raise your arms or reach forward. Always check that you can reach your arms out in front of you without the fabric straining at the back.
Polos and shirts with a collar
A polo can be tricky, because the collar and placket need to lie neatly over the chest and shoulders. If it is too small, the placket pulls and the collar stands up. Choose a fit with some air over the chest, and check that the sleeves are not tight around the upper arm. See bamboo polos for men for a classic style to try. The length must be enough for it to stay in your trousers when you move.
The trousers need to keep up
When the upper body is broad, it can be pleasant to choose soft and roomy clothes below, so the whole look is balanced. Sweatpants with a soft elastic waistband and a straight leg suit many people. See bamboo sweatpants for men. Choose a size that sits comfortably at the waist without pressing, and that has enough length in the legs so they do not ride up when you sit down.
Care to keep the fit
Clothes that shrink soon become too tight over shoulders and arms. Wash at 30 to 40 degrees and avoid a very hot tumble dryer, which can pull the fabric together. Dry the garments flat or on a hanger with broad shoulders, so the shoulder seam is not pulled crooked. When a jumper gets peace in the wardrobe and is allowed to rest between wears, it keeps its shape for longer.
Frequently asked questions
Why are jumpers too tight over the shoulders
Many sizes are cut for narrower shoulders. Try a size up, and choose a cut with a little extra width across.
Should I go by the shoulders or the waist
Go by the shoulders, and choose a straight cut. It is easier to live with a little loose fabric at the waist than shoulders that strain.
Does fabric with stretch help
Yes, some stretch gives more freedom of movement over the shoulders and upper arms. It does not decide the fit alone though, so always try the clothes on.
