What Type of T-Shirt Should Men Wear?

When it comes to fashion essentials, the T-shirt is king. It’s versatile, comfortable, and perfect for a variety of occasions. But with so many options, how can a man decide which T-shirt to wear? We should help you make an informed choice and upgrade your wardrobe by comparing the various types of T-shirts, their advantages, and the occasions they are suitable for.

The Anatomy of a T-Shirt

Collar

This is also called the “neckline.”
There are two main types of necklines on T-shirts: round neck and V-neck.
I always recommend choosing a round neck T-shirt because V-necks can be difficult to pull off.

Shoulders

It’s best if the seam where the sleeve meets the body is exactly in line with the end of the shoulder.
If the seam is too high or too low, then your T-shirt is either too small or too big.

Sleeves

The sleeve length of a T-shirt should be at the middle of your bicep.
Anything shorter or longer than this will look out of place.
They should hug your arms gently.
They shouldn’t be too tight, otherwise your biceps will look like they are being strangled.
There shouldn’t be any slack or space around your biceps either, as this will only make your arms look smaller.

Body

You should be able to pinch no more than 5-7.5cm on either side of your belly button and no less than 2.5cm.
This applies to every body type.
The hem of your shirt should be between the top and middle of your crotch (the "^" shaped part of your leg).

Hem

The hem is where the bottom fabric of your shirt ends.
Some shirts have curved hems, but I don't recommend this.
Always go for shirts with straight hems.

Classic Crew Neck Tee

Overview:
A simple short-sleeved crew neck t-shirt is a must-have because it's super comfortable, timeless, and everyone wears it year-round, either as a layer or underneath something else.

When to Wear :
Casual Outings
Under a Jacket or Blazer
Layering in the Colder Seasons

Benefits:
Suitable for all body types
Easy to pair with almost any outfit
Available in a variety of colors and materials

Wearing Tips:
Pair a white crew neck t-shirt with jeans for a classic, effortless look. For a more sophisticated look, wear it under a blazer and with khakis or cropped trousers.

V-Neck T-Shirt

Overview:
The neckline of a V-neck T-shirt forms a "V" shape, and this style comes in a variety of shades.

When to Wear :
Casual to business casual occasions
Wear under a button-up shirt
Visually lengthens the neck

Benefits:
Adds a touch of elegance over a crew neck
More flattering for men with shorter necks or rounder faces
Provides a modern, stylish look

Tie-up suggestions:
Deep V-necks can be worn alone for a bold look, while shallow V-necks are best worn under a button-down shirt. Dark colors like navy or charcoal can enhance the slimming effect.

Henley T-Shirt

Overview:
The henley collar T-shirt combines elements of a crew neck and a V-neck, with a placket that usually has three to five buttons.

When to Wear :
Casual to Business Casual Environments
Layering for Layering
Adds a Rugged, Masculine Look

Benefits:
Versatile and Stylish
Provides a Unique Look Compared to a Standard T-Shirt
Button Placket for Adjustable Ventilation

Wearing Tips:
Henley collars pair well with jeans or khakis, or can be layered over a jacket or shirt. Choose neutral colors like white, gray, or navy to maximize your styling possibilities.

POLO Shirt

Overview:
Polos feature collars and button plackets and are typically knitted in varying thicknesses.

When to Wear :
Business Casual to Semi-Formal Environments
Golf Tournaments or Casual Business Meetings
Summer Events and Outdoor Gatherings

Benefits:
Strike a Balance Between Casual and Formal
Provides a More Structured Silhouette
Comfortable and Stylish

Wearing Tips:
Pair a POLO with khakis or cropped shorts for a sophisticated summer look. For a more formal look, tuck it in and pair with a belt. Choose classic colors like white, navy, or black to maximize your styling possibilities.

Long Sleeve Tee

Overview:
Long sleeve tees extend to the wrist, making them perfect for cooler weather. They come in a variety of necklines, including crew neck, V neck, and Henley neck.

When to Wear :
Fall and winter
Layer under a sweater or jacket
Casual to smart casual

Benefits:
Provides extra warmth while staying stylish
A versatile layering piece
Available in a variety of fabrics and fits

Wearing Tips:
Slim-fitting long sleeve tees can be worn under a blazer for a trendy look or layered under a sweater for added warmth. Opting for neutral colors like black, gray, and white is a practical choice.

Sports Tee

Overview:
Sports Tees are designed for performance, made with moisture-wicking and breathable materials.

When to Wear :
When working out or playing sports
Outdoor adventures
Casual wear when comfort is a priority

Benefits:
Improves performance through moisture wicking and breathability
Often has anti-odor and UV protection
Comfortable for long periods of time

Styling tips:
When working out, pair your sports t-shirt with shorts or sweatpants. When casually wearing, pair it with jeans or casual shorts. Choose brands that focus on high-quality performance fabrics.

How your t-shirt should fit

The shoulder seam ends where the shoulder begins to slope downward.
Fit snugly around your biceps without any excess fabric.
The length of fabric pinched on either side of your belly button should be no more than 5-7.5 cm and no less than 2.5 cm.
The hem should be near the middle, between the top button of your trousers and the end of your crotch.

Conclusion

Choosing the right t-shirt requires considering your lifestyle, body type, and the occasion you wear it. From classic crew necks to performance-focused sports tees, each type has a specific purpose and unique benefits. By understanding the different types and how to pair them, you can create a versatile, practical wardrobe that will keep you looking neat and comfortable in any occasion.

Investing in high-quality T-shirts, such as those offered by LIHANTON, ensures durability, comfort, and style. Whether you prefer a classic crew neck T-shirt, a polo shirt, or a performance sports T-shirt, making a smart choice will elevate your overall style.