Wrinkles across the back of a t-shirt that otherwise fits

Short answer: Wrinkles across the back come from too much shoulder width, not from the fabric. Choose a cut with a narrower shoulder seam and a little more stretch.

How to read the wrinkles

Horizontal folds under the shoulder blades mean the garment is too wide across the back. Vertical folds along the spine mean it is too long in the back. Diagonal folds from the armpit mean the armhole sits too low.

The role of the shoulder seam

The shoulder seam should sit on the edge of the shoulder. If it sits out on the upper arm, fabric gathers across the back no matter how well the rest fits. It is the simplest thing to measure before buying. See bamboo t-shirts for men.

When the body is not symmetrical

Most people have one shoulder slightly lower than the other, which creates a fold on that side. That is normal and not a fault in the garment. A style with a little elastane hides it better than a stiff fabric.

What you can do with a t-shirt you own

Steam the back while the garment hangs on a hanger and most folds drop out. If it is too wide across the back, an alterations shop can take in the side seams. See bamboo t-shirts for women and bamboo clothing for women.

Frequently asked questions

Do wrinkles mean poor fabric

No. Wrinkles are about cut and measurements, not about the fibre.

Do the wrinkles disappear after washing

Only for a moment. They return as soon as the garment is back on the body.

Should I size down

Only if the chest is also too big. Otherwise it is the cut and not the size causing it.