How to measure a shoulder width

Short answer: Shoulder width is measured across the back from one shoulder edge to the other. It is the measurement that decides most about how a top fits, and the one that cannot be changed afterwards.

Edge to edge across the back

The measurement is taken at the back, not the front, in a straight line from one shoulder edge to the other. At the front the body curves in towards the chest, and the figure comes out too short. Stand tall with arms by your sides and shoulders relaxed. Do not pull the shoulders forward or back.

Find the shoulder edge

The edge is where the shoulder drops down towards the arm. You can feel it as the outermost point of the shoulder bone. That is also where the shoulder seam of a well fitting top should sit. If the seam sits further out, the top is too wide, and if it sits further in, it pulls across the back.

Have someone measure you

Shoulder width is almost impossible to measure on yourself, because it sits on your back. Ask someone to hold the tape from edge to edge in a straight line. The tape can follow the shape of the back slightly, but should not dip towards the shoulder blades. Measure twice and use the figure that repeats.

Measuring a garment is easiest

If there is no one to help, measure a top that fits you well. Lay it face down on a table, smooth out the fabric and measure in a straight line between the two shoulder seams. Compare the figure with the size guide on the product page. See bamboo sweatshirt for women, where the guide shows each size.

Why shoulder width matters so much

A top can be taken in at the sides and sleeves can be shortened, but shoulder width stays as it is. If it is wrong, the top never sits right, whatever you do afterwards. So it makes sense to choose a size by the shoulders first, then look at length and sleeves.

Loose fits and dropped shoulders

Some tops have dropped shoulders, where the seam is placed on purpose a little way down the arm. Then the shoulder width is not the same as your own measurement, and that is intended. Check the description of the cut before comparing. See bamboo sweat for men and women, where the cut varies between models.

Shoulders on sets

When you buy a set, the top decides the size, because the shoulders cannot be changed. Trousers with an elastic waist are more forgiving. See the bamboo jogging suit and choose the size by shoulder width and chest. Then the top sits right, and the trousers usually follow without trouble.

Write it down

Write your shoulder width down along with chest, waist and sleeve length, so it is to hand next time you shop. Measure again now and then, or when a top that used to fit starts to pull across the back. Bodies change, and the figure should keep up.

Frequently asked questions

How do you measure shoulder width

Across the back in a straight line from one shoulder edge to the other, with arms by your sides and shoulders relaxed.

Why is shoulder width so important

Because it cannot be changed afterwards. A top can be taken in at the sides, but the shoulder width stays, so choose the size by it first.

What is the easiest way

Measuring a top you already own. Lay it flat, measure in a straight line between the two shoulder seams, and compare the figure with the guide on the product page.