A modified variational analysis based on the principle of minimum com plementary energy, is used to describe the stress state around a through-the-thickness transverse crack in [0 m/90n]s cross-ply laminates. The analysis takes into account nonlinear stress distribution in the thickness direction of the 0°-plies and contains a thermoelastic consideration. A failure criterion based on linear elastic fracture mechanics is used to pre dict the onset of transverse matrix cracking in cross-ply laminates. The predictions are compared with experimental data and with previous analyses developed in the framework of the shear lag theory or the variational approach suggested by Hashin.