T-shirts are as American as apple pie. Today, you can find women’s T-shirts in an endless array of fabrics, fits, cuts and colors. The versatility of T-shirts has improved as a result, making them a staple style piece for a ball game or the runway.
While the large variety of women’s T-shirts on the market is beneficial in many ways, it can be intimidating. You may wonder which options are best for your personal preferences, body type, climate or activity. Fortunately, a little bit of research and an open mind can make shopping for a T-shirt much easier.
The classic silhouette and mid-hip length of the Tommy Hilfiger V-Neck T-Shirt make it an obvious contender. The lines and design of this T-shirt look good on virtually anyone. Plus, it’s a wardrobe staple that’ll still work years from now.
What to know before you buy a T-shirt for women
T-shirt fit
Not everyone wants a baggy T-shirt or a tight T-shirt. Or the same person might want both, but for different occasions. These personal preferences are the reason why you should pay attention to the fit of any T-shirt you consider. In general, T-shirt fit falls into one of three categories:
Relaxed fit: loose throughout the garment.
Standard or classic fit: cut broadly across the sides or shoulders and more fitted on the waist and chest.
Slim fit: hugs the body with a narrow cut.
T-shirt fabric
There’s a wealth of fabrics used to make T-shirts. So, which should you look for while shopping? It depends on quite a few variables, including:
Your skin type: focus on ultra-soft natural fabrics if your skin is sensitive or prone to any kind of irritation.
A hot climate: go for lightweight fabrics if you live in or are traveling to a hot climate.
Working out: choose lightweight fabrics that dry quickly and are breathable.
Being prepared in these ways will improve your chances of finding a T-shirt you can wear comfortably all day long.
T-shirt durability
Are you planning to wear this T-shirt often or just occasionally? Will you work out or lounge on the couch while wearing it? These are a few of the questions you should ask yourself to determine how long you need the shirt to remain in good condition. Wear-and-tear is hard on a T-shirt so if you plan to be ultra-active, prioritize long-lasting thick fabrics.
T-shirt for women features
T-shirt neckline
T-shirts are designed with many types of necklines. The two most common are v-neck and crewneck, but you can also find shirts with a scoop neck and a bateau neck. There’s no right or wrong answer for which neckline you should choose. It simply depends on your personal preferences.
T-shirt sleeves
Sleeveless, cap sleeve, short sleeve, three-quarter length sleeve and long-sleeve T-shirts are options from which you can choose. Some T-shirts are even designed with flutter or ruffle sleeves to give them an extra dose of style.
The best sleeve length typically hinges on the temperature outside. In general, you should stick to short sleeve or sleeveless shirts in hot weather and long or three-quarter-length sleeve shirts in cold weather.
T-shirt length
Some women prefer to tuck their T-shirt into their pants or skirt, while others want to leave it untucked. If you’re in the former category, make sure the length is long enough to tuck and remain tucked throughout the day. If you prefer to leave the hemline loose and flowing, figure out where on your torso you want the shirt to end.
T-shirt for women cost
Most T-shirts won’t cost you an arm and a leg, although there are designer versions that are pricey. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $18-$54 for a well-made woman’s T-shirt. Some high-end brands will charge more for a T-shirt based on the name alone, so don’t write off less expensive shirts.
T-shirt for women FAQ
Can you wear a women’s T-shirt to a dressy occasion?
A. While a T-shirt may not be suitable for formal or semi-formal occasions, it’s perfectly acceptable to pair one with a skirt or nice trousers to create a business casual ensemble. You can elevate the look further by adding a blazer or a cardigan.
What’s the best way to wash and dry a women’s T-shirt?
A. Cotton T-shirts should always be washed in cold water and hung up or laid on a drying rack to air dry. Otherwise, you risk it shrinking. This is a great process to follow for all T-shirts if you want to keep them looking their best for a long time.
Which T-shirt for women should I get?
Best of the best T-shirt for women
Tommy Hilfiger V-Neck T-shirt: available at Amazon
Our take: The classic v-neck silhouette of this short-sleeve T-shirt makes it a great staple for daily wear, regardless of the occasion.
What we like: Made of 100% cotton and featuring a mini Tommy Hilfiger flag logo on the chest, the quality of this shirt is evident. It hits at mid-hip for an easy fit. This T-shirt is available in 13 different color selections and in sizes x-small to xx-large.
What we dislike: Some users report that the sizing of the shirt runs small.
Best bang for your buck T-shirt for women
Amazon Essentials Slim Fit Crewneck T-shirt: available at Amazon
Our take: You’ll get two lightweight and breathable slim-fit crewneck T-shirts in this two-pack.
What we like: These highly rated T-shirts from Amazon Essentials 58% cotton, 39% modal and 3% elastane, making them soft against your skin. The elastane gives these crewnecks the perfect amount of stretch and the tailored fit creates a bit of definition at your waist.
What we dislike: Sizing was the issue voiced by a smattering of buyers, with complaints that included an overly snug fit and stitching that caused the fabric at the shoulders to protrude.
Honorable mention T-shirt for women
Lands’ End Relaxed Supima Cotton T-shirt: available at Amazon
Our take: Long fibers make Supima cotton softer than regular cotton — and this V-neck T-shirt is constructed of 100% Supima cotton, making it very comfortable.
What we like: Falling to mid-hip and generously cut through the entire piece, this T-shirt is the epitome of a relaxed fit. You can choose from a large variety of 25 colors.
What we dislike: Some buyers complained that the cut and fit of the shirt is boxy and unflattering.
Megan Oster is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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