The perfect white T-shirt. You’ve thought about it. Perhaps you’ve even hunted for it. But does it exist, or is it merely a myth of menswear; a sartorial unicorn? The truth lies somewhere in the middle. After countless years searching for the perfect white T-shirt ourselves, we’ve settled on the fact that it does, in fact, exist, but with a caveat: it’s different for everyone.

From fabric to fit, collar to construction, there’s more to the seemingly simple white tee than meets the eye. A great one feels soft but structured, fits just right, and survives wash after wash without turning into a sagging, discoloured shadow of its former self. So, how do you, as an individual, find that elusive perfect white T-shirt? Here’s what you need to know.

Table of Contents

Fabric first: The foundation of a great tee

The starting point for any T-shirt is its material. While it may all look the same on the rack, not all cotton is created equal. The best white T-shirts are typically made from 100% cotton, but there’s a hierarchy even within that category.

Organic cotton: This is an eco-friendlier choice, grown without harmful chemicals and pesticides. It tends to feel softer on the skin and has less environmental impact.

Long-staple cotton: Cotton is spun from fibres, and the longer the fibre, the stronger and smoother the resulting fabric. Long-staple varieties – such as Supima or Egyptian cotton – are known for their durability and luxurious feel.

Beyond the type of cotton, consider the weight of the fabric, measured in grams per square metre (gsm). A lightweight T-shirt (under 160gsm) is breathable and ideal for layering, while a heavyweight option (200gsm or more) offers more structure and durability. For most wardrobes, a mid-weight T-shirt strikes the perfect balance – substantial enough to hold its shape but breathable enough for everyday wear.

Fit is key: Get the proportions right

No amount of premium fabric can save a T-shirt that doesn’t fit properly. The right fit depends on personal preference, but a classic white T-shirt should hit the following benchmarks:

Shoulders: The seams should sit right at the edge of your shoulders, creating a clean line.

Sleeves: Aim for sleeves that hit about halfway down your bicep. They shouldn’t be overly tight but should still follow the shape of your arms.

Body: The fabric should gently hug your frame without clinging. There should be enough room to move comfortably but no excess fabric billowing out.

Length: The hem should fall just below your waistband, long enough to stay tucked if needed but not so long that it looks sloppy when untucked.

For those who prefer a more relaxed silhouette, oversized T-shirts with dropped shoulders and longer hems have gained popularity. This style works well for casual looks but requires careful styling to avoid looking too baggy.

The collar conundrum: Crew neck vs V-neck

The neckline can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your T-shirt. For most men, the classic crew neck is a fail-safe choice. Its rounded shape is flattering on nearly every body type and pairs effortlessly with other wardrobe staples.

V-necks, on the other hand, are divisive. While they’re useful as undershirts – since the V-shape remains hidden under an unbuttoned shirt – they can look dated or awkward when worn on their own. If you’re venturing into V-neck territory, keep the “V” subtle; anything too deep is best left in the past.

Regardless of style, pay attention to the construction of the collar. Ribbed collars are sturdier and less likely to stretch out over time, preserving the T-shirt’s shape and longevity.

Construction and craftsmanship: Details that matter

Beyond fabric and fit, the way a T-shirt is made speaks volumes about its quality. Cheaper tees often cut corners with loose stitching and flimsy materials, while premium options are built to last.

Seamless construction: Many high-end T-shirts are made using loopwheel machines, which create a tubular body without side seams. This method results in a more comfortable fit and eliminates the risk of seam misalignment.

Reinforced stitching: Look for double-stitched hems and collars. These features may seem minor but significantly increase the garment’s durability.

Underarm gussets: This is a small triangular piece of fabric sewn under the arms to improve mobility and fit – a feature often found in heritage or workwear-inspired designs.

Brands like Merz b. Schwanen and Buck Mason have mastered these details, offering T-shirts that feel as good as they look.

The price debate: How much should you spend

White T-shirts range from budget-friendly basics to designer offerings with eye-watering price tags. So, what’s a reasonable amount to spend?

At the lower end, high-street retailers like Uniqlo and Arket offer surprisingly good options for under £30. These are perfect for layering or as an everyday staple but may not hold up as well over time.

For around £50, brands such as Asket and Wax London deliver exceptional quality, with features like organic cotton, reinforced stitching, and mid-weight fabrics. These tees strike an excellent balance between affordability and durability.

If you’re willing to invest, luxury brands like Sunspel (£75) or Merz b. Schwanen (£80) offer unparalleled craftsmanship. Made from premium materials and constructed with precision, these T-shirts feel like an indulgence but are built to last.

Colour and style: Is white always right

While a crisp white tee is undeniably classic, there’s room to experiment with other shades. Neutral tones like grey, navy, and black are equally versatile and can add variety to your wardrobe. Pastel hues or garment-dyed finishes offer a more casual, laid-back vibe, while bold colours should be approached with caution – they tend to date quickly.

Printed T-shirts are another option, though they lean more casual. If you opt for graphics, look for timeless designs – think vintage sports logos or subtle text. Anything too loud or trendy risks becoming a one-season wonder.

Care and maintenance: Keep it looking fresh

Even the best white T-shirts won’t stay pristine without proper care. Wash in cold water to prevent shrinking and fading, and avoid overloading the machine to reduce wear and tear. For stubborn stains, a pre-wash treatment can work wonders. Line-drying is ideal, but if you must tumble dry, use the lowest heat setting to minimise damage.

Final thoughts

The perfect white T-shirt is more than just a piece of clothing – it’s a foundation. It underpins countless outfits, offering a blank canvas for your style. Whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual, investing in a quality T-shirt ensures that you’ll always have a dependable go-to piece.

Remember, the perfect T-shirt isn’t about following trends or splurging on the most expensive option. It’s about finding a balance of fit, fabric, and craftsmanship that works for your wardrobe and lifestyle. Take the time to find one that suits you, and it’ll repay you with years of effortless wear.

Next up: The best T-shirts to buy right now.