Hey guys, this week we're going to be addressing t-shirts. I was tempted to title this post "Why Men Shouldn't Wear T-Shirts," but that wouldn't be entirely true. Some men actually do look good in t-shirts, but most men don't. So, when I talk about t-shirts, it's mostly going to be against them.
Now, it's summer, and a lot of you like wearing t-shirts because you think it’s cooler. The reality is, there are substitutes for the t-shirt. All a t-shirt is, is just an easier way to dress. It’s easier to slip on a t-shirt than to put on a dress shirt, and that’s why many people prefer it. But, I’d recommend taking those extra two seconds to button up a shirt and go with a linen dress shirt instead of a t-shirt.
The Problem with T-Shirts
Unlike a dress shirt or a polo, t-shirts lack the detail and structure to shape your body well. Dress shirts and polos are a bit thicker and contour your body better, especially if they have a good fit. T-shirts, on the other hand, act almost like a second skin. They cling to your body, and if you don't have wide shoulders, bigger biceps, or a good chest, you’re going to look terrible in a t-shirt.
For skinny guys, t-shirts accentuate narrow shoulders, small arms, and a flat chest, making you look even skinnier. For bigger, overweight guys, t-shirts highlight your weight, making visible any rolls or "man boobs." A dress shirt, however, can hide these flaws and give you a more proportionate look.
Alternatives to T-Shirts
There are substitutes for t-shirts, such as linen shirts or polo shirts, which are just as cool and breathable. If heat is your concern, these options are much better. If you don't have a proportionate body, you're going to look bad in a t-shirt. But, if you do have a good body, go to the gym regularly, and have broad shoulders and a narrow waist, you can pull off a t-shirt.
Finding the Right Fit
Even if you have a good body, finding the right fit is crucial. You don't want a t-shirt that’s too baggy because it will hang off you and hide your shape. But you also don't want it too tight, where it looks like you’re wearing an Under Armour shirt. A good t-shirt should fit well but not be overly tight.
T-Shirts with More Detail
If you do wear t-shirts, I suggest going with something like a Henley tee, which has a bit more detail than a simple tee. A Henley tee with buttons can shape your chest better and give you a more defined look. Alternatively, a v-neck t-shirt is better than a crew neck. A v-neck gives a slight V shape to your chest, enhancing your look.
Pros and Cons of T-Shirts
T-shirts do have their pros: they’re simple to throw on, require no thought, and can even be worn wrinkled for a very casual look. However, the cons far outweigh the pros. In my opinion, stay away from t-shirts and opt for alternatives like linen or polo dress shirts.
I hope this post was helpful.