The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Perfect T-Shirt

Finding the perfect T-shirt can be a challenge, but it's worth investing time in as they are a wardrobe staple. A good T-shirt should be versatile, taking you from casual outings to semi-formal events, and durable so it lasts for years. When searching for the best T-shirt, there are several factors to consider, from style and fit to material and cost.

In terms of style, the two most popular types of T-shirt are V-neck and crew neck. A V-neck will elongate your neck and break up your frame, so it's a good choice if you're on the stockier side. A crew neck, on the other hand, will make your frame look more square, so it's a better option if you have a slight build.

Fit is also key. The best T-shirts hug the body in the right way and retain their shape, wash after wash. The sleeves should end at mid-bicep and gently hug your arm. If you're slim, opt for a shirt with a tailored torso, while those who are not slim should choose a shirt with a roomier fit. The length of the shirt is important too – it should end just a few inches below your belt, covering your stomach but not your butt.

When it comes to materials, 100% cotton is the gold standard for everyday T-shirts as it's soft, strong, and breathable. However, cotton doesn't always perform the best, so if you're looking for a T-shirt for working out or going out, a blended fabric with moisture-wicking properties may be a better option.

Finally, consider the cost. While a higher price doesn't always mean higher quality, it can be a proxy for construction quality. More expensive T-shirts often have better seams and hems, which means they'll fit better and last longer.

Sleeve length

The ideal sleeve length for a T-shirt is one that ends at mid-bicep. If the sleeves extend below the thickest part of the muscle, they are too long. The sleeves should also gently hug your arm, so choose a shirt with an appropriate fit. For slim individuals, a shirt with a tailored torso is best, while those who are not slim should opt for a shirt with more room.

The sleeve length of a T-shirt is crucial not only for aesthetics but also for functionality. Sleeves that are too short may ride up and expose your arms, while sleeves that are too long can restrict movement and cause discomfort. Therefore, it is essential to select a T-shirt with sleeves that are the correct length and fit.

Additionally, the sleeve length of a T-shirt can influence the overall length of the shirt. Typically, if the sleeve length is right, the overall length of the T-shirt will also be appropriate. The ideal length of a T-shirt should end just a few inches below the belt, covering the stomach without totally hiding the buttocks.

When choosing a T-shirt, it is important to consider not only the sleeve length but also the fit of the torso and the length of the shirt in relation to your body type. However, sleeve length plays a significant role in the overall appearance and comfort of a T-shirt, so it should be given careful consideration when making a purchase.

Torso tailoring

• Consider your body type: The fit of a T-shirt depends on your body type. If you have a slim build, opt for a tailored torso to avoid looking swallowed up by the shirt. If you're not slim, give yourself more room.
• Sleeve length matters: The sleeves of your T-shirt should end at mid-bicep. If they fall below the thickest part of your bicep, they are too long. Sleeves should gently hug your arms, so choose a shirt with an appropriate sleeve length.
• Chest fit: If a T-shirt hugs your chest, it will make your chest look bigger. However, if you don't want to emphasise your chest or feel self-conscious about your pec firmness, avoid a tight-fitting shirt.
• Shirt length: The ideal length for a T-shirt is a few inches below your belt. It should not cover your stomach or your butt completely.
• Fabric and blends: While 100% cotton T-shirts are the gold standard for softness, breathability, and durability, blends like a 50/50 polyester-cotton mix can be a good choice too. They are less likely to shrink and wrinkles will be easier to manage. However, they may pill more easily and make you sweat more.
• Sewing quality: Paying a little extra for a T-shirt can get you better sewing quality. Better seams and hems will make your T-shirt fit better and last longer.
• Neckline choice: The choice between a V-neck and a crew neck depends on your body type. A crew neck will make your frame look more square, so it's ideal if you have a slight build. On the other hand, a V-neck is less boxy and elongates your neck, so it's a good choice if you're on the stockier side.
• Tucking techniques: If you have a muscular build, the military tuck can help you achieve a better-fitting look. This technique involves tucking your shirt into your trousers in a specific way to create a pleat that hides excess fabric around your waist.
• Darts and alterations: Taking your T-shirt to a tailor is an option if you want a perfect fit. They can put darts (seams that remove excess fabric) in the back of the shirt to achieve a slimmer look. This method ensures a custom-fitted garment that complements your body shape. However, it can be expensive and time-consuming.
• Shrinking fabric: If you don't want to go through the hassle of tailoring, you can try shrinking your T-shirt at home. Soak it in boiling water or wash it in hot water to make the fibres contract. However, this method may alter the shape of the shirt.

Fabric type

When it comes to the fabric type of your T-shirt, there are several options to consider.

Cotton is a popular choice for T-shirts, with 100% cotton tees often considered the gold standard for everyday wear. Cotton is soft, strong, and breathable, making it a comfortable and durable option. However, cotton T-shirts may shrink in the wash and are more prone to wrinkling. To mitigate these issues, look for pre-shrunk cotton options or go for a cotton-polyester blend, which will be less likely to shrink and will have better wrinkle resistance.

If you're looking for performance features in your T-shirt, such as moisture-wicking or temperature regulation, blended fabrics or technical fabrics may be a better option. Blended fabrics typically combine natural fibres like cotton with synthetic fibres like polyester or elastane, which can provide benefits like stretch and moisture-wicking while still offering some breathability. Technical fabrics, often found in athletic wear, are usually made from synthetic fibres and are designed to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable during physical activities.

For those seeking a more premium option, Supima cotton, Pima cotton, and Sea Island cotton are considered higher-quality types of cotton that offer superior softness, durability, and breathability. These types of cotton are often used in more expensive T-shirts and can provide an elevated feel and appearance.

Finally, for those concerned about sustainability, organic cotton, linen blends, or recycled synthetic fibres may be preferable. Organic cotton is grown without the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, making it a more environmentally-friendly option. Linen blends can also be a good choice as linen is a natural fibre that is strong and breathable. Recycled synthetic fibres, such as recycled polyester, reduce waste and can be a more sustainable alternative to virgin synthetic fibres.

Fit

The fit of a T-shirt is arguably the most important aspect of its design. The right fit can make anyone look good in a T-shirt. A T-shirt should follow the natural contours of your body without clinging to it.

Shoulders

The shoulder seam of a T-shirt should end where your shoulder ends and your arm begins. It's okay if it doesn't land directly on your shoulder bone, but it shouldn't hang down your upper arm. You don't want the shoulders too narrow either. If the shoulder seam sits above your pecs, the shirt isn't wide enough.

Sleeves

The sleeves of a T-shirt should end about halfway between your armpit and elbow. They should be close to the arm without being skin-tight. You don't want them to puff out or be too restrictive.

Torso

The torso includes the chest, stomach, and hips. You're aiming for a fitted look that is not too tight or too loose. If you see tension lines between your pecs, the shirt is too tight. You should be able to pinch about 2-3 inches of fabric on either side of your torso. If you can pinch more, the shirt might be too loose.

Length

The length of a T-shirt is especially important for shorter guys. It should go about two inches past your waistband and end around mid-fly. If it hits the bottom of your fly, it's too long and will make you look shorter.

Overall Fit

The T-shirt should be comfortable and not feel constricting. It shouldn't be so loose that you're swimming in your shirt. The most timeless look is one that is not too tight and not too loose.

Brand

When it comes to the best T-shirt brands, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Here is a detailed and instructive guide to help you navigate the vast landscape of T-shirt brands and find the one that aligns with your needs and values.

Firstly, it is essential to consider the reputation and values of the brand. Opt for well-known brands that consistently deliver high-quality T-shirts, such as Calvin Klein, J.Crew, Sunspel, Buck Mason, Outerknown, and Billy Reid. These brands are renowned for their classic styles, premium materials, and attention to detail. Additionally, athleisure brands like Lululemon, Rhone, and Vuori specialise in T-shirts with technical fabrics and features ideal for physical activities. If you prioritise sustainability and ethical production, brands like Outerknown, using organic cotton grown without chemicals, and Rapanui, with its commitment to renewable energy and recycled packaging, are excellent choices.

Secondly, consider the brand's specialisation. For instance, Fresh Clean Threads, as the name suggests, focuses on providing high-quality, no-frills essentials with a fitted look. Similarly, Hanes is a venerable basics brand that has been stepping up its game in recent years, offering comfortable and innovative T-shirts like the Control Crewneck Tee with odour control and temperature regulation technology. On the other hand, brands like Everlane and Flint and Tinder Vintage excel at creating T-shirts with a soft, worn-in feel and a vintage look, perfect for those seeking that "lived-in" vibe.

Thirdly, pay attention to the brand's fit and sizing options. While some brands offer standard sizing, others provide a wider range of sizes to cater to diverse body types. For example, ASKET, a Swedish brand, offers an impressive 18 sizes, allowing customers to choose from long, regular, and short lengths to ensure a perfect fit. Similarly, Son of a Tailor, a Danish brand, creates custom-fit T-shirts based on your measurements and preferences, ensuring a unique and personalised experience. However, it is worth noting that not all brands with custom or extended sizing options deliver on their promises, as seen in the case of Spoke, where the algorithm-generated sizes were inconsistent and inaccurate.

Lastly, the fabric and material used by the brand are crucial considerations. While 100% cotton tees are often considered the gold standard, blended fabrics can offer advantages like moisture-wicking, breathability, and stretch. For example, the Lululemon Fundamental T-Shirt, made with a blend of Pima cotton, nylon, Lyocell, and Lycra, is renowned for its softness, durability, and shape retention. Additionally, some brands, like Rapanui, use certified organic cotton and eco-friendly packaging, prioritising sustainability without compromising on quality.

Frequently asked questions