The T-Shirt Test: What Every Well-Dressed Man Should Know
When a client says they want to look more pulled together, I don’t reach for suits or shiny shoes. I head straight for their T-shirts.
Why?
Because if your basics aren’t working, the rest doesn’t stand a chance.
It’s the one item almost every man wears, almost every day. And yet most guys get it wrong—think loud graphics, oversized fits, or tees that look like they’ve survived a decade of sweaty workouts.
The right T-shirt makes you look cleaner, stronger, more intentional—even in jeans and sneakers. The wrong one drags down your entire outfit.
So whether you're layering it under a jacket or wearing it solo to a casual dinner, your T-shirt needs to pass a few tests.
Here’s the checklist I give every client:
The Ultimate T-Shirt Checklist for the Well-Dressed Man
FIT
☐ Shirt gently skims the body (not too tight, not too baggy)
☐ Shoulder seams hit right at the edge of your shoulders
☐ Sleeves lightly hug the upper arm without constricting
☐ Shirt length hits mid-to-upper-crotch — not too long, not cropped
☐ No excess fabric billowing at the sides
Tip: If in doubt, size down or take it to a tailor for the perfect fit.
FABRIC
☐ Mid-weight cotton (Pima or Supima preferred) or cotton blend
☐ Feels soft but holds structure
☐ Not see-through or clingy
☐ No excessive stretch — retains shape after multiple wears
Avoid ultra-thin or overly stretchy fabrics — they don’t age well.
COLORS
☐ Black
☐ White
☐ Navy
☐ Medium gray
Stick to these versatile core tones to pair with anything.
STYLE
☐ Crew neck or shallow V-neck — choose based on personal preference
☐ No large graphics, logos, or slogans
☐ No distressing, holes, stains, or excessive fading
A clean, solid-colored tee is always more elevated and timeless.
CARE
☐ Wash in cold water on gentle cycle
☐ Hang or lay flat to dry
☐ Skip the dryer to prevent shrinkage or breakdown
☐ Replace worn or stretched-out tees regularly
Final Thought:
A great T-shirt doesn’t shout for attention — it just gets it. It’s not an afterthought; it’s the opening line of your style story. Get it right, and suddenly it’s doing all the heavy lifting while you just stand there looking effortlessly put-together.
Brandi is a personal stylist with over a decade of experience helping men show up with confidence and ease. She offers tailored style solutions that take the guesswork out of getting dressed—so you look sharp and feel great, no matter the occasion.