The shirt that bulges out of the trousers
Short answer: A shirt billows out when there is too much fabric around the waist, or when the layer underneath bunches up. A close fitting undershirt and the right shirt size solve most of it, and a few simple habits handle the rest.
Too much fabric
If the shirt is too wide at the waist, the fabric gathers over the belt as soon as you sit or move. This is the most common reason a shirt billows. Many people choose a size by shoulders and collar and overlook that the cut around the stomach must fit too.
The layer underneath
A loose T-shirt under the shirt creates folds that push the shirt out and gather at the belt. A close fitting undershirt lies flat against the body and follows it when you move. It also stays tucked in better. See bamboo undershirt for men.
The length
A shirt that is too short pulls out of the trousers every time you reach or sit down. It needs to be long enough to stay in, even when you bend. Measure the length of a shirt that fits well and compare before you buy. See the size guide.
The material
A fabric with drape lies closer to the body than a stiff one. A stiff fabric stands away from the body and forms a pouch over the belt, while a soft fabric follows the line and gathers less. Bamboo viscose is light and smooth with a calm drape. See bamboo shirt for men.
Where the trousers sit
If your trousers sit low, there is more shirt to hide, and that makes the problem worse. Trousers that sit at the waist hold the shirt better, because there is less fabric below the waistband. Try pulling them a little higher and see whether the shirt stays neater through the day.
How to tuck it in
There is a simple technique that many tailors recommend. Take hold of the sides of the shirt, fold the extra fabric back towards your spine, and tuck it in with flat folds. The fabric then gathers at the back instead of the front, where it would otherwise billow over the belt.
See the range
If you want close fitting basics to wear under a shirt, they are gathered in one place. A smooth crew neck T-shirt works as an undershirt and lies flat under the fabric. Choose a size that sits close without squeezing. See bamboo T-shirts for men.
Washing
Hang the shirt up right after washing, so the creases fall out on their own. Avoid the tumble dryer, as the heat can shrink the fabric, making the shirt shorter and more likely to pull out. Smooth it with your hands while damp. See the washing guide.
If you sit a lot
If you sit at a desk most of the day, the shirt works its way up every time you reach for something. Stand up now and then and straighten it. It takes seconds. A longer shirt and a close fitting undershirt mean you need to do it less often.
When you have tried everything
If you have tried a smaller size, a longer style and a close fitting undershirt, and the shirt still billows, the cut may not suit your body. A tailor can then take the shirt in at the sides. It is a small change that often makes a big difference.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my shirt billow out?
Because there is too much fabric around the waist, or the layer underneath creates folds. Low trousers and a shirt that is too short make the problem worse.
Does an undershirt help?
Yes, if it fits closely. A loose T-shirt creates more folds, while a close fitting undershirt lies flat against the body and stays tucked in better.
How do I tuck in a shirt so it stays?
Fold the extra fabric at the sides back towards your spine and tuck it in with flat folds. The fabric then gathers at the back instead of billowing at the front.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
