Clothes for narrow shoulders
Short answer: If you have narrow shoulders, straps slip off and necklines hang crooked. Here is advice on cut, sleeves and layers, so the clothes stay put and you do not have to keep adjusting them.
Why clothes slip on narrow shoulders
The shoulder line has to carry the whole weight of the clothes, and when the shoulders are narrow, the fabric has less to hold on to. Wide necklines and straps therefore slip off more easily, and the shoulder seam often hangs down over the upper arm. Many sizes are cut with a broader shoulder than yours, and then the jumper falls crooked. The answer is to choose cuts designed to stay in place, and to try on before you buy.
Neckline and collar
A high, round neck sits closer to the nape and stays put better than a wide boat or V neck. If you like a wide neckline, try a style with a little rib or an edge that holds it in place. Check that the neckline does not pull backwards when you move. If the label at the neck is irritating, you can cut it off. See bamboo T-shirt for women for a basic style to compare with.
Sleeves and shoulder seam
The shoulder seam should sit where your shoulder ends. If it hangs down, the jumper is too big in the shoulders, and then it is better to go down a size or choose a style with a closer fitting shoulder. Raglan sleeves or a soft shoulder area can make the shoulder seam less visible. The sleeves should not be so wide that they gather at the elbow. Choose a fit where the sleeve follows the arm without squeezing.
Tops with straps
Tops with thin straps can be tricky, because the strap slides off a narrow shoulder. Choose tops with wider straps or a style where the strap sits closer to the neck, so it lies on the shoulder. Racerback and crossed straps also hold well. See bamboo tops for women. Many tops have adjustable straps, and that is a big advantage because you can find the length and position that sits best.
Active clothes that stay put
When you exercise, the shoulders move a lot, and the clothes have to stay in place. A style with a wider shoulder area and a close fit around the ribcage holds better. See bamboo training shorts for women for soft, stretchy clothes for movement. Choose clothes that can cope with you raising your arms and stretching without slipping, rolling or pulling at the shoulders.
Layers and care
Layers can give the shoulders more to hold on to. A close fitting undershirt under a looser jumper stops it from sliding. Wash the clothes at 30 to 40 degrees, and hang them on a hanger with narrow shoulders so the shoulder seam is not stretched. Avoid hanging heavy clothes on hangers with sharp edges, because that can form bumps in the fabric at the shoulder and pull it out of shape.
Frequently asked questions
Why do my straps slip off my shoulders
Because the shoulders are narrow and the strap sits too far out. Choose wider straps, racerback or adjustable straps.
Should I go down a size
Often yes, if the shoulder seam hangs down over the upper arm. Check that the length and bust width still fit, though.
How do I avoid a crooked neckline
Choose a high, round neck with a rib that keeps its shape. Wide necklines slip more easily on narrow shoulders.
