I need some advise on finding the right size shirt.  Tee Shirts are not really a problem for me but nice button down shirts in any type of fabric never really fits right.  The problem that I have is my chest size is 34 C but my shoulders are narrow and small.  Bony.  So when I try on a shirt that is a small size the chest area is too tight.  But when I try on a medium it almost hangs off of me.  I can get frustrating and almost impossible to go shopping and enjoy myself.  Any suggestions for me??

I have two suggestions for you: 1. Don’t wear button down shirts and 2. What about getting them tailored? Not sure if it is possible or not or how much it would cost but then they maybe able to take the shoulders and sleeves in. Hope that helps.

First of all, I heard about a line of clothes with shirts that are sized for the bust. I don’t remember the name though.

Second, get the shirts that fit the largest part of you and then have the rest taken in by a good tailor. It’s really worth it.

The company that makes shirts sized by bra size is called Rebecca & Drew--they’re sold at Saks and other high-end department stores, and also on their website (rebeccaanddrew.com)

In terms of finding a shirt that fits, tailoring a shirt around the shoulders in the way you describe can be tough. You may just have to shop around to find a style that really fits you, or else compromise the fit slightly by wearing a camisole under your buttondown shirt in case you have to release that one straining button. I often do that with shirts if I don’t want to worry about it--I find a camisole in the same shade as the shirt and layer away.

Kate_W - 12 March 2008 03:02 PM

In terms of finding a shirt that fits, tailoring a shirt around the shoulders in the way you describe can be tough.

As I heard it, taking the shoulders in is a bit tough, and it’s not cheap, but it’s definitely doable.

However, I like the layering idea. Aside from allowing the shirt to work, you can mix and coordinate colors and have fun with it.

Thank you all for the great suggestions.  I have thought about tailoring but I was never sure about the price and heard it could be pricey.  I love the layering idea.  I had not thought about that. I think that will be a good choice for me.