My guide to t-shirts

No good wardrobe is without a quality t-shirt. This guide will not tell you which one to buy, but it will highlight five of my favourites and things to consider when buying yours.

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Basics”, “essentials” and “staples”, all words we use when talking about the key parts of our wardrobe and none are arguably as important as this. At a time where anything goes in menswear, the plain t-shirt almost gets forgotten. Never in the spotlight, it is a garment that we often look to cover. For me it takes more of a central role and overtime my style often comes down to a daily uniform of a t-shirt, a pair of trousers and some trainers. This means I have built quite the collection in various lengths and cuts and after wearing them day-in and day-out, I thought it was time to put together a guide highlighting some key styles I own to help you decide on your next one.

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HEAVYWEIGHT T-SHIRT [affiliate link] by ARKET

Also wearing: GREY TROUSERS by ACNE STUDIOS [similar] and ORIGINAL ACHILLES LEATHER SNEAKERS [gifted] by COMMON PROJECTS via MR PORTER

One factor to always consider is the weight. If you are choosing to wear a t-shirt sans jacket, then an ARKET heavyweight t-shirt is a good option weighing in at 220GSM. This one is perfect for our kind of weather until it starts to hit the high 20s. But this is definitely the all-rounder if you are looking for a t-shirt that keeps it shape, while maintaining a relaxed fit. So tip number one, find out how heavy you like your tops to be.

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HUDSON SHORT SLEEVE T-SHIRT IN NAVY by JIGSAW MENSWEAR

Also wearing: NAVY TROUSERS [similar] by MR P. and BOSTON SUEDE LEATHER by BIRKENSTOCK

If I needed something on short notice and I was in town, I reckon Jigsaw would be high on my list of places to call in at. Always reliable, their short sleeve t-shirt is made from 100% cotton and made in Portugal. And those that look out for the nuances, you’ll have already noticed the split hem. This t-shirt often finds itself being my weekend at home t-shirt as I’m not too precious about it, but I know it’s going to come out the washer ready to be worn again.

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MEN’S CLASSIC COTTON T-SHIRT by SUNSPEL

Also wearing: NAVY TROUSERS [similar] by MR P. and PERCY SHOES by GRENSON

Now, here’s a top I am precious about. Of all the brands I have mentioned, Sunspel is the premium choice for those who wear t-shirts as much as myself. You cannot talk about the heritage of the t-shirt without mentioning Sunspel. I find that the long staple pima cotton they use has an unrivalled softness even after multiple washes. Their classic option is on the lighter side so one for the hot weather if you want to wear it on its own and with it being lighter, don’t be surprised to see creases from the moment you slip it on. Need a heavier cut? Take a look a their cavendish selection. But seriously, look past the creases and prioritise comfort. When to wear: evenings, work meetings and when you want to feel at your best.

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BLACK T-SHIRT by ASKET

Also wearing: BLACK TROUSERS by TOSSIJN and PERCY SHOES by GRENSON

Asket could easily be my one-stop shop for clothes. They care greatly not only for their products, but also their process, which you can read more about here. Their t-shirt is pre-shrunk and designed with a slight tailored fit, meaning the overall look is a touch smarter. At 180GSM it sits heavier than the Sunspel option, but lighter than ARKET. One consideration which is worth looking into is the neckline, as we all want to avoid that raised wavy ‘bacon neck’ neckline a couple washes in. ASKET’s ribbed neckline makes it slightly raised from the base making it not only a design point of difference, but also means it holds up well in the durability stakes.

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LIGHTWEIGHT WOOL T-SHIRT by SON OF A TAILOR

Also wearing: GREY TROUSERS by ACNE STUDIOS [similar] and ORIGINAL ACHILLES LEATHER SNEAKERS [gifted] by COMMON PROJECTS via MR PORTER

Want more from your t-shirt then just looking good? Son of a Tailor utilises merino wool to create a t-shirt which keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, while staying relatively light at 135GSM. Not only that, but the brand also allows you to design your ‘perfect’ t-shirt. Choose the neckline you want, sleeve type and more interestingly size. Yes, size. Each t-shirt is tailor-made. Just a t-shirt hey?

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Photography by ROSIE ANN BUTCHER

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This guide could have been much more than five t-shirts, each with its own characteristics and menswear top trump traits, but I feel this provides a good base to start thinking about t-shirts as not just an afterthought purchase. There are so many t-shirts to choose from in the current menswear market that I think it’s not about finding one and sticking to it, but having the right one for the right occasion. Consider what you’re buying it for, how you like your tees to feel on you and go from there. All of the t-shirts I’ve featured are ones I wear regularly and are t-shirts I’ve grown to love wearing, but it’s not to say they will be right for you. If anything, I hope I’ve highlighted some things to look out for and consider.jbicon

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