Armhole gaping on tops, why it happens

Short answer: An armhole gapes when the top is too big, the cut around the arm is too wide, or the fabric has stretched out of shape. Here are the causes, and what you can do about it when you choose and care for a top.

What does it mean when the armhole gapes

The armhole is the opening for the arm, and when it gapes the edge of the top stands away from the body instead of lying close. It can look uneven and show more than you want. It is usually a question of fit, and not a sign that the top is poor.

When the top is too big

The most common cause is a size that is too big. If the top is too wide through the body, the shoulders and the armhole drop and stand out. Try one size down, and check that the top sits close around the chest and under the arm without pinching. Look at bamboo tops for women in several cuts too.

When the cut does not suit your body

Some tops have a wide cut armhole, which suits narrow shoulders and a small bust best. If your shoulders or bust are broader, a deep armhole can stand out even in the right size. Try a cut with a higher or narrower armhole if you want more calm.

When the fabric has stretched out

Soft fabrics can give a little if the top is washed too hot or hung on a hanger while wet. Then the armhole can grow and start to gape. Wash by the care label, and dry the top flat so the shoulders do not stretch out of shape.

How bra straps and the armhole work together

A gaping armhole can show the side of the bra if it is too wide. Choose a bamboo bra with a calm cut that does not poke out at the side of the top. It can also help to pick a top with a slightly narrower armhole, so the edge covers the side of the bra.

How to check the armhole in the fitting room

Lift your arms, move and bend forward while you look in the mirror. If the armhole still gapes when you stand still, the top is too big or has a cut that does not suit you. Try several sizes and cuts if you can, so you can compare.

Small changes that can help

If you have a top you love, you can often improve the fit with a few small stitches along the edge or a small piece of elastic. A tailor can also adjust the armhole. It is usually easier to find a top that fits from the start, rather than trying to rescue one that is too big.

Care so the armhole keeps its shape

Wash the top gently by the label, avoid too much heat and dry it flat. Turn it inside out so the edge pills less. Combine it with socks for women and the rest of your basics, and make sure each piece fits, so everything works together in daily life.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the armhole on my top gape

Most often the top is too big, or the cut does not suit your body. The fabric may also have stretched out of shape after a wash that was too hot or a wet hanger.

Can I fix an armhole that gapes

Sometimes. A few small stitches or a tailor can help, but it is often easier to choose a size or cut that fits from the start.

How do I stop the armhole from growing

Wash by the care label, avoid too much heat and dry the top flat. That keeps the shoulders from stretching out of shape, and the armhole stays close for longer.