How to fold shirts like they do in stores

Have you ever wondered how to fold shirts, t-shirts, tops and knitwear so neatly like they do in stores?

Before I worked (for a brief time) in fashion retail, when shopping, I’d want to look at items on the shelves, but could never put them back on the stack how they were folded.

This was embarrassing for me, I know others are quite happy to leave it for the shop assistants to sort – but I always felt bad about making a mess, and later, rather sorry for the poor assistant who had to fold and re-fold day in, day out.

I learnt this technique and thought I’d share it, because it not only saves me from the shame of messing up a store display, but it keeps my closet so organized, everything in a uniform size, and makes it easier to find the shirts I want to wear in the morning.

This technique works for vests, tops, t-shirts, shirts and knitwear. It’s also good for packing for your travels.

Step One

Lay the shirt face down on a flat surface smoothing out any creases. (Excuse my un-ironed shirt).

Step Two

Fold in the right-hand side into the center of the shirt – use the outside of the neckline as the ‘fold’ guide. It may not reach into the center if they are a small size. Don’t fold further in than the neckline.

Step Three

Fold in the left-hand side just the same.

Step Four

Now fold the bottom of the shirt one third up (it should reach just about under the sleeve).

Step Five

Fold the top of the shirt over the meet the bottom fold. Then you might need to spin it round to face you!

Et Voila!

Your shirts will now stack neatly they they do in the stores. Your drawers will be more organized and if you are like me, you’ll no longer feel guilty about putting back a shirt in the store if it started off beautifully folded.

Extra Folding Tip

For longer sleeves, just fold them down along the length of the shirt.

Ahhh, sometimes it pays to be slightly O.C.D.

Is this how you fold your shirts?