When the shoulders are broad and the top is tight
Short answer: Shoulder width is the measurement that is hardest to get around. If a top does not fit across the shoulders, going up a size in the body will not help, which is why the shoulder should be your starting point when choosing.
Shoulder first
The shoulder seam should sit on the edge of the shoulder, where the arm begins. If it sits further in, the top is too small and pulls across the back when you reach forward. If it sits on the upper arm, it is too big. Check in the mirror with your arms hanging down.
Going up a size
A size up gives more shoulder width, but also a longer and wider body. That is the trade off. For some it is fine, because a slightly looser body is comfortable day to day. For others the top becomes baggy around the stomach. Bend and lift your arms before deciding.
The cut matters
Styles with raglan sleeves or a looser cut have more room in the shoulder, because the sleeve is set in differently. A slightly wider neckline can also give more freedom of movement. Check the fit in the product description. See bamboo T-shirts for men.
Fabric with stretch
Bamboo viscose stretches, so a close fitting top feels more comfortable than in a rigid fabric. The fabric gives when you move your arms and settles back afterwards. But stretch has limits. If the shoulder seam sits clearly inside the shoulder, the top will still pull, whatever the material.
The undershirt
Under a shirt, the shoulder in particular needs room, because the shirt sits on top and presses down. An undershirt that pulls is felt all day at the desk. Choose a style that sits close to the body but gives across the shoulders. See bamboo undershirt for men.
Measure a top you know
Measure the shoulder width from seam to seam on a top that fits you well, laid flat. Compare the number with the chart for the brand you are ordering from. That gives you a concrete starting point instead of a guess. How to measure is explained in our measuring guide.
Chest measurement
With broad shoulders, the chest is often large too. Measure under the arms around the widest part of the chest, keeping the tape level. If your chest falls in one size and your shoulders in another, choose by the shoulders. A shoulder that is too narrow is harder to live with than a roomy body.
Washing without shrinking
Clothes can shrink slightly in the first wash, and that can be enough for a top that just fitted to start pulling. Wash at the temperature on the label and hang the top to dry. Avoid tumble drying on high heat, so the fit lasts longer.
See also
Shoulder width is only one part of the fit, and each brand sews to its own measurements. A size from one brand can be different at the next. That is why it pays to compare with the chart for the specific item. More on the topic is in the size guide.
In everyday life
With broad shoulders you notice a top most when you move: lifting something, driving or reaching into a cupboard. Try the top in motion before you cut off the tag. If it pulls across the back when you cross your arms, it is too small, even if it looks fine in the mirror.
Frequently asked questions
Where should the shoulder seam sit?
On the edge of the shoulder, where the arm begins. If it sits further in, the top is too small, and if it sits on the upper arm, it is too big.
Does going up a size help?
It gives more shoulder width, but also a bigger and longer body. Whether that is right depends on how much room you want around the stomach and hips.
Which cut gives the most room in the shoulder?
Raglan sleeves and looser cuts usually give more room, because the sleeve is set in differently. Combined with stretch in the fabric, that gives more freedom of movement.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
