A top for a woman with a large bust and broad shoulders

Short answer: If you have a large bust and broad shoulders, fit matters more than the size on the label. Choose a top with some stretch, a generous armhole and a length that does not ride up, and try it on while you move your arms.

Start with the shoulders

The shoulder seam should sit at the edge of the shoulder, not on the upper arm or beyond it. With broad shoulders, this is often where a too small size gives itself away, because the fabric pulls at the neck. Go up a size if the shoulders tighten when you reach forward.

A little stretch in the fabric helps

A soft fabric with some elasticity follows the body without tightening across the bust and back. Fabric without stretch can ride up or pull at the armhole. Feel the fabric and gently pull it to see whether it gives and comes back again.

Length over the bust

A large bust pulls the fabric upwards at the front, so the top ends up shorter in front than at the back. Choose a length that covers the stomach even when you raise your arms. Many find that a slightly longer top sits more calmly and needs fewer adjustments during the day.

Neck and neckline

A neckline that is too narrow presses on the breastbone and creates uncomfortable pressure. A slightly wider round neck or a soft V-neck spreads the fabric better. Think about what you want to show too, so you do not have to tug the top all day.

Armhole and underarms

Broad shoulders need an armhole with room, so the edge does not cut into the upper arm or rub in the underarm. Raise your arms and circle them while you try it on. If you feel pressure already, it will not improve after a whole day at the office.

Support and layers

The top is only one part of the whole, and many combine it with a layer closest to the body that gives a calm feel. Choose layers so none becomes a thick bundle over the bust. You can browse the bamboo tops for women, where you can compare armholes and necklines.

Choose by how you spend the day

For an ordinary day a loose T-shirt may be the most comfortable, while a top closer to the body works under a blazer or jumper. Also look at bamboo T-shirts for women if you prefer a slightly longer model. Keep both in the wardrobe so you can choose by the day.

Washing and fit over time

Wash the top following the care label, normally at a low temperature, and hang it to dry so it keeps its shape. Fabric can give a little over time, so do not pick a size that is too big because you expect shrinking. Clothes next to the body, such as bamboo knickers, should be soft too.

Frequently asked questions

Should I choose the size by bust or shoulders?

Try to match both, but if you must choose, go by whichever tightens most. A top that pulls across the shoulders or bust feels uncomfortable all day.

How do I stop the top riding up over my stomach?

Choose a generous length and a fabric with a little stretch so it does not pull upwards at the front. Raise your arms in the fitting room and see whether it stays put.

Is it normal for the top to sit differently at the front than the back?

Yes, because the bust takes up space and pulls the fabric up at the front. It is entirely normal, and a slightly longer top reduces the difference. You can always tug it into place.