When clothes strain across the stomach

Short answer: Either the size is too small, or the cut is made for a different figure. A fabric with stretch often solves it without going up a whole size, and a different cut in the same size is worth trying first.

Size or cut

If it only feels tight over the stomach while the shoulders fit, the cut is the issue, not the size. Many tops are cut straight or slightly narrowed at the waist, which does not suit every figure. Try a regular fit in the same size from the men's bestsellers. That way you keep the right shoulder width.

Fabric with stretch gives room

A few percent elastane gives several centimetres of room without the clothing looking bigger. The fabric follows the body and gives when you sit down or bend over. Look at the compositions in the men's range and compare styles with and without stretch. The difference is most noticeable when sitting.

Length is connected

When the fabric pulls over the stomach, the top also rides up, so the hem ends above the waistband. A longer style solves both, because there is more fabric to give. Look at the lengths in long sleeve styles and compare shoulder to hem with a top you already like.

Why a size up does not always help

A larger size gives room over the stomach, but also broader shoulders and longer sleeves. The shoulder seam slides onto the arm, and the top looks too big at the top. So it is better to try another cut or a fabric with more stretch first. That keeps the fit across the shoulders.

Sit down and test

Many tops fit when you stand but feel tight when you sit. The stomach takes a different shape when seated, and the fabric needs to follow. So sit down when trying clothes on and lean forward slightly. If it pulls or the hem rides up, the style is too close fitting for you.

A looser cut without looking baggy

A looser cut does not have to mean the clothing looks big. A soft fabric with good drape settles over the body rather than standing away from it. Choose a style with straight sides and good length so the top hangs calmly. Avoid very thin fabrics that cling and very thick ones that stand out.

Measure before you buy

Lay a top that fits well over the stomach flat and measure the width just above the hem. Compare with the chart for the style you are considering. If the width at the bottom is smaller than on your own top, the new one will probably feel tight. It is a simple test that saves returns.

Washing and fit

Soft clothing can shrink slightly after washing if it is dried hot. Wash at a low temperature and let it dry flat or on a line. Avoid the tumble dryer if you want to keep the width. That way the garment keeps the measurements it had when you bought it.

Frequently asked questions

Does going up a size help

Yes, but the shoulders also get broader and the sleeves longer. Try another cut or a fabric with more stretch first.

Is tight over the stomach always too small

Not necessarily. Some cuts are drawn narrower exactly there, so a different cut in the same size can fit well without going up.

How do I test it when trying on

Sit down. If the fabric pulls when seated, or the hem rides up above the waistband, the style is too small or too close fitting for you.