The Evolution Of T-Shirt Styles: A Comprehensive Guide

T-shirts have come a long way since their inception in the late 1800s. Once an undergarment, they are now a versatile garment that can be styled in countless ways. From crew necks to V-necks, long sleeves to sleeveless, and graphic prints to pocket tees, the options are endless.

Crew necks, also known as classic T-shirts, are the most common type of T-shirt. They feature a round, circular neckline and work well for people with long and narrow faces. V-necks, on the other hand, are flattering for those with rounder faces and broader shoulders. The Henley, or Y-neck, is a hybrid of the crew and V-neck, often featuring buttons and short or long sleeves. Polo T-shirts add a sense of formality with their stand-up collars and button plackets. Scoop necks are similar to crew necks but with a wider neckline that hangs below the collarbone.

Long sleeve T-shirts offer a casual yet comfortable look, while sleeveless T-shirts, or tank tops, are perfect for hot weather. Cap sleeves add a twist to regular sleeves, extending just below the shoulder. Three-quarter sleeves provide the perfect compromise between short and long sleeves. Raglan sleeves, named after British Army Officer Lord Raglan, are attached to the T-shirt with a diagonal seam, giving them a unique look.

Graphic T-shirts, with their photographs or typography, are a popular way to express personality. Pocket tees feature a single pocket, usually on the left breast, adding a dash of style. Hooded T-shirts are perfect for athleisure and travel, while curved hem T-shirts offer a slightly longer shape. Longline T-shirts, with their hemlines stretching to the knees, are a staple in modern streetwear.

With so many types of T-shirts to choose from, it's no wonder they are a staple in everyone's wardrobe.

Crew necks

When it comes to fabric, crew necks are often made from soft cotton or cotton blends. Some crew necks may also be crafted from synthetic, stretch materials like Lycra, Spandex, or Elastane, which are popular for workouts due to their moisture-wicking properties.

In terms of maintenance, crew neck T-shirts made from high-quality materials can maintain their colour, shape, and size even after multiple washes. They are less likely to fade, shrink, or stretch compared to lower-quality T-shirts.

V-necks

For women, V-neck T-shirts are versatile and can be dressed up or down. For a night out, they can be paired with a blazer and a skirt, or they can be worn for daytime comfort as part of an athleisure look.

When choosing a V-neck T-shirt, opt for a sturdy, natural, and breathable material such as 100% organic premium cotton. Avoid prints, logos, or emblems, and instead, choose timeless colours like black or white. Ensure the neckline is not too low and that the collar is well-finished. A V-neck should have a relaxed fit, rather than being too tight.

Polo shirts

The Classic Polo

The quintessential classic polo shirt is crafted from premium cotton and features a soft collar, short sleeves, and a modest button placket at the neckline. It is the most ubiquitous polo variant, available in various colours and patterns, making it a versatile piece that can be paired with jeans for a relaxed look or dressed up with chinos or dress pants.

The Fashion Polo

The fashion polo shirt adds a contemporary spin to the classic style, often made from luxurious fabrics such as silk or linen and featuring unique touches like embroidery or intricate prints. It is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, making it easy to adapt to different occasions.

The Golf Polo

The golf polo shirt is designed with the golfer in mind, offering both performance and style. Its moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool and dry during intense games, while the slim fit and elongated back hem allow for unrestricted movement. Golf polo shirts come in various colours and patterns, adding a stylish touch to your game.

The Rugby Polo

The rugby polo shirt is a heftier, more durable version, initially designed to withstand the rigours of rugby games. It is made from thick cotton and features long sleeves, a substantial collar, and a buttoned placket. Perfect for colder seasons, it delivers comfort and style, blending sporty chic and durability.

The Performance Polo

The performance polo shirt is engineered for an energetic lifestyle, offering optimal comfort and flexibility. It is typically made from technical fabric with moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and anti-odor properties. The performance polo is usually slim-fitted and may include reflective elements for improved visibility in low-light conditions.

The Sweater Polo

The sweater polo is a blend of the classic polo shirt design and the warmth of a sweater, perfect for cooler climates. It retains the traditional elements of a polo shirt, such as the soft collar and buttoned placket, but is crafted from heavier materials like wool, cashmere, or thick cotton blends. The sweater polo often features long sleeves, making it a stylish option for autumn or winter, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

The Pocket Polo

The pocket polo shirt adds a practical twist to the classic polo design, featuring a small pocket on the chest for added utility. The pocket can be used to store small items or serve as a style statement, giving a slightly more casual and laid-back look. The pocket polo is available in both short and long-sleeved versions, blending functionality and style.

The Knitted Polo

Knitted polo shirts offer a unique spin on the traditional polo, crafted from knit fabric for a textured look and comfortable fit. They straddle the line between casual and formal attire, providing a vintage charm that works for both relaxed weekends and business-casual environments. Knitted polo shirts are perfect for transitional seasons like spring or fall, offering just the right amount of warmth.

Additional Considerations

When choosing a polo shirt, consider the collar and neckline style, with options ranging from the classic tennis collar with a buttoned placket to the more contemporary and relaxed Johnny collar, which is ideal for warmer climates. The number of buttons on the placket can also vary, with two or three buttons indicating a more formal look, and the option of no buttons at all for a casual vibe.

The fit of the polo shirt is another important consideration, with classic and slim fits being the most common options. The classic fit provides a comfortable and casual look, while the slim fit offers a more contemporary and tailored silhouette.

Lastly, the colour and pattern of the polo shirt can be used to make a statement or keep it understated, depending on the occasion. While traditional polo shirts come in solid colours like white, black, navy, and grey, experimenting with vibrant hues, patterns, stripes, or checks can add visual interest to your outfit.

Scoop necks

In terms of fit, it is important to ensure that a scoop neck T-shirt fits closely without being too tight around the chest and waist. The shoulder points of the T-shirt should align with the endpoints of the wearer's shoulders. Additionally, the sleeves should cover about one-third of the biceps and lightly hug the arms. When it comes to length, the T-shirt should not ride up too much when the arms are raised, but it should also not be too long that it falls well below the waistline.

Overall, scoop necks are a versatile and stylish option for those wanting to make a statement with their T-shirt choice. With the right fit and fabric, a scoop neck T-shirt can be a flattering and fashionable addition to any wardrobe.

Raglan sleeves

T-shirt designers can get creative with raglan sleeves, through a variation on the stitching known as epaulet or a saddle sleeve. These sleeves are joined with a stylistically curved seam near the underarm, running parallel to the shoulder. Because of its natural curve, the saddle sleeve is common on women's T-shirts with raglan sleeves.

The raglan T-shirt style is named after British Army Officer Lord Raglan, who wore a coat with a sleeve cut so that he could have a greater range of arm movement to use his sword in battle. Sadly, Lord Raglan lost his arm at the Battle of Waterloo, but he was known for wearing a stylish coat with long, angle-cut sleeves, which have since inspired the creation of the raglan sleeve shirt.

Today, raglan styles are especially popular in sweatshirts, which are made softer with organic cotton and keep you cosy in any environment.

Frequently asked questions