Get Your Money’s Worth: Choosing the Right T-shirt
by: Kelli Fassbender

What really makes some t-shirts better than others?

Size Differences:

Sizing differs dramatically from brand to brand. Not only does the general size change significantly, but the length and width proportions vary as well. Your figure and style will determine what brand will give you the best fit. Check out our sizing guide for details.

Fabric

Fabric determines many factors about a t-shirt, such as how well a t-shirt will hold its shape after wearing and washing. T-shirts can be made from 1x1 baby rib, jersey material, cotton spandex, among many others. If you want a t-shirt that is soft and flexible you may want to try fine jersey. If you seek a durable heavy fabric, interlock is a good option for you. Polyester/cotton blends are a favorite because they don’t shrink in the wash or fade in the sun. To learn more about fabrics visit our fabric sample guide courtesy of American Apparel.

Color

Different brands offer different color options. Some companies such as American Apparel offer trendy colors and styles while others such as Hanes provide a spectrum of colors. Some brands offer color combinations that are more appropriate for corporate wear. Visit manufacturer websites to browse color options.

Garment distortion

Often a brand new t-shirt leaves the washer and dryer in a disappointing condition. Shrinking and color fading are the two most popular complaints. Hanes offers a spectrum of colors that won’t fade in the wash and other companies have garments that have minimal shrinkage. All t-shirts will shrink to some extent when they are first washed. Cotton polyester blend t-shirts will shrink less than 100% cotton t-shirts and heavyweight t-shirts shrink less than lightweight t-shirts. You may want to call the manufacturer to ask the shrinkage percentages and purchase accordingly. Keep in mind that shrinkage is measured both horizontally and vertically because t-shirts often shrink more in one direction than another. To minimize fading, turn garments inside out while washing and drying.

Pilling

Pilling is the appearance of little bumps of fibers on the surface of the garment. Pilling only occurs on shirts knitted with a cotton polyester yarn. It is not as common as it once was and occurs most often on fleece material. To minimize this problem purchase no-pill or low-pill products.

To learn more about t-shirts that hold up to performance standards visit our favorites.

Summary

There are dozens of technical reasons that make one t-shirt better than another. Yet, the most important reason is a matter of your personal style. You could purchase the highest quality t-shirt but if it doesn’t fit you right, isn’t the right fabric, the right color, and hangs in the back of your closet, then you did not get a good deal. The following tips should help you to find that perfect t-shirt to go with those oh-so-perfect jeans.