Shoulder tape that keeps the shape

Short answer: A narrow tape along the shoulder seam stops the shoulder from stretching out of shape. It is a detail that costs only pennies to sew in.

What the tape does

The shoulder seam carries the whole weight of the garment when it hangs on a hanger or is pulled on. Without a tape the seam stretches a little each time, and the shoulder gets wider month by month.

How to find it

Turn the garment inside out and look at the shoulder seam. If a narrow tape is sewn into the seam from neck to sleeve, it is there. See bamboo t-shirts for men.

When it matters most

In t-shirts and sweatshirts kept on hangers, and in heavier garments. In light underwear it matters less. See bamboo t-shirts for women and bamboo sweatshirts.

Frequently asked questions

Can you sew a tape in yourself

Yes, a narrow cotton tape stitched along the seam with small stitches works.

Why has the shoulder got wider anyway

Often because the garment hung wet on a hanger. Lay wet clothes flat.

Can you see the tape from the outside

No, it sits inside the seam and is only visible on the inside.