Top With Wide Straps – Guide

Short answer: A top with wide straps covers the bra strap, stays put on the shoulder and can therefore be worn on its own. It is the model that turns a basic top into a garment you can go to work in, rather than only a layer under something else.

What wide straps mean in practice

A wide strap usually measures two to four centimetres and lies flat across the shoulder. That does two things: it covers the bra strap, and it does not move when you raise your arm. Those are the two reasons it can be worn as the only upper garment.

The shoulder decides the fit

A wide strap has to sit where the shoulder is flat, or it slides outwards. Measure the distance between the straps on a top you already wear, and compare before you buy. That tells you more than the size does, because brands place the straps differently.

For work

Together with a pair of bamboo trousers for women and a blazer, a top with wide straps is smart enough for an office day. Bamboo viscose hangs straight down instead of standing away from the body, and that is what separates smart from homely.

The fabric needs weight

A fabric that is too thin hangs in the straps and folds across the bust. For a top meant to be worn alone, the quality may be a touch heavier than for a layer under something else. Have a look at the bamboo tops for women and feel the weight between your fingers.

The back has to cover too

A strap that is wide at the front and narrow at the back does not cover the bra strap where it is seen most. Check the top from behind in the mirror before wearing it to work, because the back is what other people see as you walk away.

Under a cardigan

A wide strap lies flat under a cardigan and creates no ridge on the shoulder, where a narrow strap can show. That also makes this the model that works best as a middle layer when you go in and out of an outer layer several times a day.

The colours worn most

Black, white and a dark blue cover almost everything and can be worn alone as well as layered. Buy two identical ones of the model that fits your shoulder, and do not experiment with more models before the first has been worn for a full day.

Washing and lifespan

Wash at 30 degrees without fabric softener, and dry the top flat or over a hanger so the straps are not stretched. Skip the tumble dryer, because heat is what leaves the shoulder edge slack. The rest of the range sits under bamboo for women. See also bamboo clothing for sensitive skin and find the right size in bamboo clothing.

Frequently asked questions

Does a wide strap always cover the bra strap?

Not necessarily. It depends on how wide the strap is at the back and where the bra strap sits. Check it from behind in the mirror before relying on it.