The top that rides up over the stomach
Short answer: A top rides up when it is too short, or when the fabric is too tight over the hips. Length is the measurement most people overlook when choosing a size, and that is often where the solution lies.
Length rather than width
Going up a size mostly adds width and only a little length. That is why sizing up rarely helps if the top is too short. Instead, measure the length of a top you like and compare it with the size chart. See the measuring guide.
Tight over the hips
If the fabric is tight at the bottom, the top is pushed upwards every time you move. The hips are wider than the waist, so a top that is narrow at the hem finds the narrowest part of the body and stays there. Choose a style with a little room over the hips.
The material
A fabric with drape hangs down instead of rolling up. A stiff or very stretchy fabric contracts and creeps upwards, while a soft fabric with some weight follows gravity. Bamboo viscose is smooth and light with a calm drape. See bamboo T-shirt for women.
The body as a solution
A body cannot ride up, because it closes at the crotch. It stays in place however you move, and it lies smoothly under both trousers and skirts. Many people wear it as a first layer under a top that otherwise creeps up. See bamboo body.
Longer styles
Some styles are cut with extra length, so they reach well down over the hips. They stay in place even when you raise your arms. Long sleeved tops especially need length, because the sleeves pull on the body when you move your arms. See long sleeved bamboo T-shirt for women.
When you reach up
When you lift your arms, the sleeves pull the whole top up with them. The narrower the top is across the shoulders, the more it pulls. A top with a little room under the arms and a good length stays in place better. Raise your arms when trying on a new top.
After washing
If the top has shrunk in length, it has probably been tumble dried. The heat draws the fibres together, and length is often the first thing to go. Wash at 40 degrees, gently pull the top into shape while wet, and let it air dry. See the washing guide.
Tuck it in
A simple solution is to tuck the top into your trousers or skirt. That only works if it is long enough to stay there. A slightly longer style or a body gives you more to tuck in, so the top does not creep up during the day.
See also
If you are unsure which size to choose, start with your measurements and compare them with the chart. Look at both width and length, and remember that length is usually what decides whether a top rides up. More about sizes in the size guide.
When the top is worn
An old top may have become shorter and narrower after many washes. The fabric also loses some of its drape. If a top that used to fit well starts riding up, it is often a sign that it is worn out. It can still be worn at home while a new one takes over.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my top ride up?
Because it is too short, or the fabric is tight over the hips. A stiff fabric and sleeves that pull when you raise your arms make it worse.
Does going up a size help?
It mostly adds width and only a little length. It is better to measure the length of a top you like and choose a style that is long enough.
Is there a style that does not ride up?
A body closes at the crotch and therefore cannot ride up. It also works as a first layer under a top that would otherwise creep upwards.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
