A plain t-shirt has nowhere to hide. With no print to distract, the fabric, the fit and the neckline are the whole look. That is why a good plain tee looks expensive and a cheap one looks like an undershirt. Here is what to check, and how to build a small set that works for almost everything.
Choose plain round necks in a smooth, long-staple cotton of about 180 GSM, with a neckband that holds its shape and a fit that sits close at the shoulders without clinging. Start with black and white, add blue, then a colour such as green or red. Buy pre-washed fabric so the fit lasts.
Why plain tees are worth getting right
- They go under a blazer, an overshirt or a jacket, and on their own: see t-shirts under a blazer.
- They never go out of style, so they earn their cost per wear.
- They make other clothes look better.
What to check
- Fabric: smooth long-staple cotton looks closer to a shirt than fuzzy basic cotton. See what Supima cotton is.
- Weight: about 160–180 GSM: opaque, but cool enough for India.
- Neckline: a ribbed neckband that lies flat and springs back.
- Fit: shoulder seams on your shoulders, sleeves close to the arm, length to mid-zip.
- Pre-washed fabric, so it does not shrink after the first wash.
Colours to own first
- Black: the most versatile, and hides wear.
- White: the classic, as long as it is opaque: see white tees that aren't see-through.
- Blue or navy: smart and easy with jeans and chinos.
- Green or red: colour without looking loud.
How to style a plain tee
- Casual: with dark jeans and white sneakers.
- Smart casual: under a blazer or overshirt with chinos.
- Travel: with drawstring trousers and a light jacket.
How to keep plain tees looking new
Wash cool and inside out, dry in the shade, and do not hang them wet by the neck. See how to wash Supima cotton and why t-shirts pill.
Abraca's plain tee
The Lokee round neck is a plain tee with no print or logo: 95% Supima cotton with 5% elastane in 180 GSM jersey, 8-needle overlap seams, and panels washed before sewing. Black, white, blue, red and green, S to 2XL for men. Packs of two or three cost less per tee.
Plain t-shirt questions
Which plain t-shirt fabric is best for men?
Smooth, long-staple cotton such as Supima, at about 160–180 GSM. It looks neat, breathes and stays soft.
What colour plain t-shirts should every man own?
Black and white first, then blue, then a colour such as green or red.
How do I stop a plain t-shirt neckline stretching?
Buy tees with a ribbed neckband (a little elastane helps), wash cool and never hang them wet by the neck.
Are plain t-shirts better than printed ones?
For versatility, yes: a plain tee works with more outfits and never dates.
How many plain t-shirts should I own?
For most men, five to seven for a week's rotation. See how many t-shirts you need.
