How to Identify a Good Vs. Bad Quality Shirt
The Right T-Shirts Make All the Difference
Classic tees are without a doubt the bread and butter of a man’s wardrobe.
They’re the ultimate versatile piece — easily dressed up under a blazer or worn solo with a great pair of jeans. But not all tees are created equal. Knowing what to look for (and avoid) will save you from wasting money on shirts that fall apart or do nothing for your shape.
Here’s how to tell the difference between high- and low-quality tees — and how to get the most out of them.
1. Nail the Fit First
Whether it’s a polo, tee, or collared shirt — fit is always king.
Your shirt should skim your body, not cling to it or drown you in fabric. Oversized or baggy tees might feel comfortable, but they won’t do your silhouette any favors.
Pro tip: If the shirt feels too big off the rack, size down.
Still not quite right? A tailor can easily bring it in to flatter your shape.
A good tee should:
Fit snug across the chest and shoulders
Gently hug the sleeves (without cutting off circulation)
Land just above the middle of your crotch — too long, and it throws off your proportions
2. Stick to These Core Colors
If you want mileage from your T-shirts, keep the palette neutral.
Start with:
Black
White
Navy
Medium Gray
Choose crew neck or v-neck depending on your face shape and personal preference. These tones work with virtually anything in your closet, from jeans and jackets to suits and joggers.
3. What to Avoid
Let’s talk dealbreakers. These are the kinds of T-shirts that instantly downgrade your look:
❌ Ill-Fitting Cuts
T-shirts that are too big, too boxy, or way too tight throw off your proportions.
If you’re used to oversized tees, the switch to fitted may feel awkward — but trust me, the difference in appearance is massive.
❌ Ultra Thin Fabrics
If you can see your skin or chest hair through the shirt, it’s not meant to be worn alone. Thin, flimsy tees are best saved as base layers under dress shirts — not top layers.
❌ Huge Graphics, Slogans, Logos
These read as juvenile and dated. Solid tees are timeless, effortless, and far more flattering.
Let your style speak through your accessories instead — think watches, bracelets, shoes, or eyewear.
❌ Ripped, Distressed, or Worn-Out Tees
T-shirts should be clean, crisp, and polished. Holes, stains, or excessive fading cheapen your look.
If it’s falling apart, it’s time to replace it.
4. Material Matters
Your shirt should feel soft, but structured. Look for a tee with enough weight to hold its shape — something between featherweight and bulky.
Go-to fabrics: High-quality cotton (like Pima or Supima) or a well-made cotton/modal blend
Avoid: Shirts that feel scratchy, flimsy, or stretch out after one wash
5. Wash + Care Tips
The way you wash your tees impacts how long they’ll last.
Here’s how to make them go the distance:
Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle
Skip the dryer — hang or lay flat to dry
Avoid heavy-duty detergents or bleach
When a tee starts to fade or lose its shape, don’t hesitate — replace it. A fresh tee will always make you look sharper.
Brandi is a personal stylist with over 10 years of experience helping men feel confident in their clothing. She offers tailored style solutions to solve your fashion issues, ensuring you look and feel great for any occasion.