diff --git a/src/armor_layers.cpp b/src/armor_layers.cpp
index 803a3c5c1d458..492ceafc3a549 100644
--- a/src/armor_layers.cpp
+++ b/src/armor_layers.cpp
@@ -1105,7 +1105,7 @@ void outfit::sort_armor( Character &guy )
                     // wear the item
                     std::optional<std::list<item>::iterator> new_equip_it =
                         guy.wear( obtained );
-                    if( new_equip_it ) {
+                    if( new_equip_it && !tmp_worn.empty() ) {
                         // save iterator to cursor's position
                         std::list<item>::iterator cursor_it = tmp_worn[leftListIndex];
                         item &item_to_check = *cursor_it;
@@ -1116,7 +1116,7 @@ void outfit::sort_armor( Character &guy )
                             // reorder `worn` vector to place new item at cursor
                             worn.splice( cursor_it, worn, *new_equip_it );
                         }
-                    } else if( guy.is_npc() ) {
+                    } else if( guy.is_npc() && !tmp_worn.empty() ) {
                         // TODO: Pass the reason here
                         popup( _( "Can't put this on!" ) );
                     }