How to choose a men's T-shirt

The T-shirt is probably the simplest piece in a man's wardrobe, but precisely because it's so simple, every detail shows. A well-chosen T-shirt sits neatly and lasts for years; a poor one loses its shape after a few washes. Here is what to look for — from fit and neckline to fabric and the right length.

Fit: slim, regular or oversized

T-shirts in the same size can fit completely differently depending on the cut.

• Regular (classic): a straight cut with some room in the chest and waist. A versatile option that suits most builds.
• Slim: closer to the body, narrower at the waist and sleeves. It looks neat, works well under a jacket or overshirt and especially suits slim and athletic builds.
• Oversized: deliberately roomy, with a dropped shoulder seam and extra length. It's a relaxed, streetwear look. Take your usual size — the volume is already built into the cut.

The Giordano men's T-shirt, for example, is a slim fit made of 100% cotton. The fit is shown on the product page, so check it before you buy.

Neckline

• Crew neck: the classic and most versatile choice. It looks good on its own, under an open shirt and under a sweater.
• V-neck: visually lengthens the neck. Choose a moderate depth — a very deep V quickly looks tired.
• Henley (buttoned neck): somewhere between a T-shirt and a polo, a little more put together.

The neckline should lie flat against your neck without stretching or rippling. A firm, stretchy rib trim keeps its shape better after washing.

Fabric and weight

• 100% cotton: soft, breathable and comfortable for everyday wear.
• Cotton with elastane: holds its shape better and has a little stretch, which helps with a slim cut.
• Weight: a denser fabric isn't see-through, keeps its shape better and looks neater when the T-shirt is worn on its own. A thinner one is cooler in summer and works as a base layer under a shirt or sweater.

How it should fit

• Shoulders: the shoulder seam should sit at the edge of your shoulder, where it turns into the arm. If the seam has slipped down the arm, the T-shirt is too big (unless it's oversized); if it's crept towards the neck, it's too small.
• Chest: the fabric shouldn't pull across the chest. You should be able to pinch a couple of centimetres of fabric at the side.
• Sleeves: they usually end around mid-bicep, without squeezing the arm or hanging wide.
• Length: the hem should cover your belt and reach roughly the middle of the trouser fly. When you raise your arms your stomach shouldn't show, and a T-shirt that's too long looks sloppy worn untucked.

Colours and combinations

For the basics, choose white, grey, navy and black. Then add one or two colours that suit you — green, light blue, olive or, for summer, pale yellow.

• T-shirt + cotton trousers + sneakers — a simple everyday look.
• T-shirt + jeans + an open shirt — for a cool evening.
• T-shirt + an overshirt or a jacket — for an autumn walk.

Care, so it lasts

• Always follow the care instructions on the label.
• Wash the T-shirt inside out, with similar colours.
• Cotton can shrink at high temperatures, so avoid a hot tumble dryer. Dry it on a hanger or flat instead.
• Iron on the reverse, especially if there is a print or embroidery.

In short

• The fit suits your build and style
• The shoulder seam sits at the edge of the shoulder
• The fabric doesn't pull across the chest
• The length covers the belt
• The neckline lies flat and doesn't stretch
• The fabric weight suits how you'll wear it

You can browse Giordano men's T-shirts and the rest of the range in our online shop or try them on in Giordano stores in Yerevan Mall, Dalma Garden Mall, Rio Mall and MegaMall Armenia, open daily from 10:00 to 22:00.