Stavrina Asteriou
T-shirts have been a staple garment for almost 70 years, and there are many different types of t-shirts with distinct features. One such type is the oval t-shirt, which has a unique neckline. This article will explore the different types of t-shirts, including the oval t-shirt, and provide insight into the history and versatility of this garment. From crew necks to v-necks, scoop necks to boat necks, and the elusive oval neck, t-shirts have evolved far beyond their original purpose as workwear and undershirts.
What You'll Learn
Neck styles
The area of fabric that follows the contour around the base of a neck is referred to as the neckline. The neckline of a T-shirt, in particular, has many variations according to its style.
A round neck T-shirt is the most common style of neck. The neck opening closely fits the contour of the neck. This style of shirt has a collar, which is usually made from contrasting ribbed fabric. It can also be referred to as a "classic T-shirt" or a "basic half-sleeve T-shirt".
A crew neck T-shirt is almost the same as a classic T-shirt. The only difference is that it doesn't have a collar. This style of shirt was worn by rowers in the 1940s. The name is historically based on the demographic who wore it rather than its style or functionality.
A ringer tee comes in either a round neck or a crew neck that has a contrasting-coloured neck. It will also have contrasting-coloured arm cuffs to match the neck. They mostly come in white with different variations of the collar for the neck and collar.
The front neck drop of a V-neck T-shirt is lower and converges to form a sharp V shape.
A scoop neck T-shirt is very similar to a round neck shirt, however, the front neck drop is positioned far lower, scooping down which exposes the chest.
The sides of a boat neck T-shirt neckline are extended out closer to the shoulder. The front and back neck drops can also be lowered. This forms a shape from a bird's-eye view that looks like the hull of a boat.
An off-the-shoulder T-shirt is an extended variation of the boat neck, however, instead of resting on the shoulder, it tightly hugs the upper bicep.
A Henley T-shirt is a combination of many styles. The neck is similar to a crew neck in that it doesn't have a collar, however, it does have a front placket with buttons like a polo shirt. The style is usually made with long sleeves.
Polo shirts are almost in a category of their own due to their unique neck features. They are usually made from heavier fabric and are more expensive. They have a firm foldable collar and a front placket with buttons that make them a more formal option. They are the only type of casual shirt that is acceptable at golf clubs or country clubs.
A polo neck, roll neck or skivvy are all terms used to describe a turtleneck T-shirt. This style of neck is more commonly associated with sweaters but also comes in T-shirt form. It has a distinct collar that extends halfway up from the neck base.
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Sleeve styles
T-shirts come in a variety of sleeve styles, catering to different preferences and occasions. Here is a detailed description of some of the most popular sleeve styles:
Cap Sleeves
Cap sleeve T-shirts have sleeves that extend just below the shoulder, tapering to nothing under the arm. This style is often seen in streetwear fashion and can help create a more V-shaped silhouette. It is a great option for those who want to show off their toned biceps and triceps.
Long Sleeves
Long sleeve T-shirts have their sleeves extended to cover the entire arm up to the wrist. They offer the casual and comfortable feel of a T-shirt while providing the full covering of a business or dress shirt. Long sleeve T-shirts are versatile and can be worn for casual, dating, and professional occasions. They are particularly useful in layering during colder months.
Three-Quarter Sleeves
Three-quarter sleeve T-shirts offer a balance between short and long sleeves. The sleeves extend just below the elbow, providing a stylish and functional option for those who want more coverage than a short sleeve but less than a long sleeve.
Short Sleeves
Short sleeve T-shirts are the most common style, offering various lengths. They are versatile and can be worn for different occasions, depending on the design and fabric.
Raglan Sleeves
Raglan sleeve T-shirts, also known as baseball tees, have a distinctive diagonal seam attaching the sleeve to the shirt. This style offers a greater range of arm movement and is named after British Army Officer Lord Raglan, who wore a similar design. Raglan sleeves are popular in sweatshirts, providing both style and comfort.
Sleeveless
Sleeveless T-shirts, also known as muscle tees, expose the bicep and are popular during hot weather. They are often worn by athletes, bodybuilders, and those who enjoy soaking up the sun. Sleeveless T-shirts can be styled in various ways, such as with joggers, rugged jeans, or a long flowing skirt.
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Hem styles
A hem is the edge of a piece of cloth on a garment that is folded under and stitched to prevent the fabric threads from fraying or unravelling. There are many different sewing techniques for finishing a hem, but a single fold under, stitched with an overlock machine, is most common for T-shirts.
Classic Hem
A classic hem is a straight, horizontal finish that typically falls just below the hip line. This is the most common type of hem and is often seen on basic T-shirts.
Longline
Longline T-shirts have a longer hemline that extends past the hip and finishes on the upper thigh. This style is popular in skate and streetwear fashion and is typically worn with baggy jeans, baseball caps, and sneakers.
Crop Top
A crop top T-shirt features a hem line that is cut at or above the belly button, exposing the belly. Cropped hems come in various styles, including curved, split, and tie hems.
Curved Hem
A curved hem is not a horizontal finish. Instead, the sides remain at the same height, while the front and back drop down proportionally, giving the hem a curved appearance. This style is often associated with Hip Hop and is commonly worn as part of a layered look.
Split Hem
A split hem is commonly seen on polo shirts. The vertical side seams converging at the bottom hem are left unsewn by 2-3 centimetres, creating the appearance of a split. Another variation of the split hem is to have the rear hem lower than the front.
Tie Hem
A tie hem is a feminine finish designed to be tied around the waist. The centre front hem usually has a vertical split and longer handles, allowing the shirt to be tied in the front or wrapped around and tied at the back.
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Fit
The fit of a T-shirt is an important consideration when choosing this garment, as it can drastically change your style. Here are some of the most common types of fits for T-shirts:
Slim Fit
Slim-fit T-shirts are designed to hug the body and flatter the figure. They are cut relatively straight with little shape and have reduced ease between the shirt and the body. This type of fit can be a bit risky as it highlights the aesthetics of body types. Slim-fit T-shirts are often used as undershirts due to their clingy nature and work well beneath jackets or pullovers.
Classic Fit
The classic fit is a combination of aesthetics and practicality. The fabric ease is close enough to the body to compliment it without being so loose that it restricts movement. This type of fit is easy to wear and can work well with many different outfits.
Relaxed or Loose Fit
A relaxed or loose fit is a combination of aesthetics and comfort. This type of fit is more forgiving of body shape and very comfortable because the fabric doesn't hug the body. A boyfriend T-shirt is an example of a relaxed-fit shirt designed for women but based on a male shirt.
Tapered Fit
A tapered fit follows and highlights the contours of the body. It is tightly fitted and best compliments muscular or slim curvy body types.
Longline
A longline T-shirt, also known as a crewneck T-shirt, has a long hemline that stretches to slightly above the knees and rests on the lower thighs. This type of fit is typically worn with baggy jeans, a baseball cap, and sneakers and is commonly associated with skate brands and modern streetwear.
Crop Top
A crop top T-shirt is a feminine style where the hemline is cut at or above the belly button, exposing the belly. The cropped hem comes in many different styles, including a tie hem or a wrap T-shirt.
Curved Hem
A curved hem, also known as a scallop hem, deviates from a standard cut hemline and is often worn as part of a layering look. It gives a slightly longer shape while still providing access to jeans or pants pockets.
Y-Neck or Henley
The Y-neck, more commonly known as a Henley, is a mix of crew and V-neck designs often found in men's closets. It complements any body type and can accentuate features to make the wearer appear more toned and slimmer. Henley shirts usually have 2-5 buttons and can be worn as short or long sleeves.
Polo
Polo shirts have a stand-up collar and button placket, and their design is similar for both men and women. They are often worn for warm-weather and/or semi-formal occasions as a more sophisticated yet comfortable option.
Scoop Neck
Scoop necks are similar to crew necks, but the neckline is bigger and hangs slightly below the collarbone. This type of fit can be tricky, as wearing the wrong size can lead to a fashion disaster. It is important to take proper measurements and pick the right size to achieve a casual and rugged look.
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Graphic designs
Graphic t-shirts are fantastic additions to your wardrobe! Create a unique design with the colours, patterns, and designs featured front, centre and back! These styles of t-shirts will never go out of style.
Graphic tees can also feature funny quotes, and are an easy top to throw on for that casual Friday at work. However, you should only pull out graphic tees for certain occasions, not everyday wear! Wearing a band shirt? Make sure you know at least a couple of songs! Weekends with friends are the perfect time to break out that graphic shirt. A fancy dinner is not—even if you throw on a structured blazer to class it up.
The graphic t-shirt was first used in the original Wizard of Oz movie. They are great for showing off your personality and interests, and can be a great conversation-starter. They’re best worn in very casual settings.
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Frequently asked questions
A T-shirt with an oval neckline is called a "boat neck T-shirt".
Other types of T-shirt necklines include crew necks (or classic T-shirts), V-necks, scoop necks, polo necks, roll necks, and skivvies (or turtle necks).
A crew neck T-shirt, or classic T-shirt, has a round circular neck that provides excellent flexibility and fits comfortably on the body, giving a toned appearance.
