You may love wearing t-shirts (tees) as a man or woman. But face difficulty in choosing the best t-shirt fabric. You are not alone, who is facing this challenge with many options for fabrics available. There are options available to you, ranging from natural to synthetic fabrics. By the same token, you face the challenge of choosing the right fabric tees.
Besides, you should find yourself lucky reading this post. We have created this post as your perfect guide to choosing the best fabric tees. So, read this post till the end and exploit it to choose the best fabric for t-shirts.
Understanding T-Shirt Fabrics
Let us help you understand the different types of shirt material (t-shirt fabrics), in particular, the top ones:
Cotton
Cotton is a natural fabric that comes in different varieties. A few of those varieties include organic and ring-spun cotton. Cotton is an excellent t-shirt fabric because of its following advantages:- Softness
- Comfort
- Durability
- Sustainability
Based on cotton varieties for t-shirts, tees can vary in softness, comfort, durability, and sustainability. Despite the benefits of cotton, this material has some drawbacks. In fact, its disadvantages result from its tendency to hold moisture. In addition, cotton tees take longer to dry plus wrinkle, shrink, and lose their color over time.
Polyester
Polyester is a synthetic (human-made) fabric, usually made from plastic. It can repel water and moisture. For the same reason, it can dry quickly plus resist the following:- Stains
- Odors
- Wrinkles
- Shrinking
Further, polyester is a moisture-wicking fabric, as it can move sweat away from the skin. This fabric is also not without drawbacks. For instance, it doesn't breathe better than cotton and is prone to cling.
Polyester/Cotton Blend
Polyester/cotton blend as the name suggests is a blend of polyester and cotton. And polyester/cotton fabrics for tees combine the benefits of cotton and polyester. However, they have the limitations of polyester. For example, polyester-cotton blend tees are soft and comfortable. But they can cling and irritate the skin.Moreover, polyester/cotton blend tees come in different varieties, similar to cotton. We have mentioned some of those varieties below:
- 90%cotton/10%polyester
- 65%polyester/35%cotton
- 50%polyester/50%cotton
Linen
Linen is a natural fabric, which is derived from the fibers of the flax plant. It is a lightweight and breathable fabric, ideal for warm weather. Because of its distinct texture and somewhat crisp feel, linen tees are a popular choice for summer or casual wear. The same holds for casual shirts. We have a question for you here, too. Do you seek comfortable, stylish, and sustainable t-shirts to wear in warm climates? If your answer is yes, linen tees are what you seek.Also, do not forget to check out our ultimate guide to layering clothes with comfort & style.
Flannel
Corduroy
Corduroy is a distinctive and durable fabric, recognized for its unique ribbed texture. Textile manufacturers weave twisted fibers in parallel to produce this material. Traditionally, apparel manufacturers used corduroy to make pants and jackets. However, they are using corduroy to produce t-shirts, too, nowadays. Thanks to the popularity, vintage appeal, and sturdy construction of corduroy! What’s more?
Corduroy t-shirts have a plush feel and are eye-catching as well. For this reason, they are stylish t-shirts to wear for accomplishing casual and retro-inspired outfits.
Twill
Twill is a versatile and durable fabric for t-shirts, such as a short-sleeve tee. It has a distinguishing diagonal weave pattern. Because of its strength and resistance to wear, it provides clothing with a unique texture and look. It also has a stylish finish besides a robust nature. So, you can comprehend why apparel manufacturers use twill to make clothing items, such as tees.
Cotton vs. Polyester: Which One is Better?
Cotton and polyester are unquestionably the two most popular t-shirt fabrics. Now you already know the key differences between these two fabrics. That is cotton is soft, comfy, durable, and sustainable. Contrarily, polyester is quick-drying, moisture-wicking plus resists odor, stain, wrinkles, and shrinkage. Now the question stands: Which one of the two is better than the other? Let us find the answer to this question next.
When Is Cotton A Better Tee Fabric than Polyester?
Cotton tees are better than polyester t-shirts in the following scenarios:
- When You Want to Feel Cool in Hot Weather
- Or When You Want to Feel Warm in Cold Environments
- And When You Are Out for hiking in Hot and Dry Conditions
But please remember cotton t-shirts are not the right choice for doing activities in cold conditions that make you sweat. In that scenario, you should opt for cotton blend tees.
When Is Polyester A Better Tee Fabric than Cotton?
Polyester tees are better than cotton t-shirts in the following scenarios:
- When You Are Working Out
- Or When You are an Active Person, Like an Athlete
- When You Need Durable and Tough Tees for Work, as a Part of Restaurant Staff, for Example
Natural vs. Synthetic Fabrics: Pros and Cons
Now let us unveil to you the pros and cons of natural and synthetic fabrics, respectively:
Pros of Natural Fabrics
- Natural fabrics are eco-friendly.
- They can easily wick away water from the skin of users wearing natural fabric tees, as they absorb water.
- In addition, they feel comfortable, such as silk and cotton tees, recognized for their softness.
Cons of Natural Fabrics
- Natural fabrics can prove expensive to produce.
- Further, you may need to follow special cleaning instructions to take care of natural fabric tees.
Pros of Synthetic Fabrics
- Synthetic fabrics are custom-made (human-made) to solve our problems, in fashion and design, for example.
- They can wick away moisture with their water-resistant and moisture-wicking properties.
- In addition, synthetic fabrics are cost-effective to produce.
Cons of Synthetic Fabrics
- Synthetic fabrics are not always breathable.
- They are made from chemicals, which makes certain synthetic fabrics not friendly for the environment.
Breathability and Comfort: What Matters Most?
Both breathability and comfort matter when it comes to choosing tees. The same holds for choosing polos, dress shirts, and tank tops. Breathability matters the most when you need to wear t-shirts for doing physical activities. For instance, breathable tees matter for doing workouts. Contrarily, comfy tees, such as a cotton t-shirt, are the right choice for lounging around. Not to mention, you can opt for cotton/polyester blended tees to get the best of both worlds. That is getting comfort and breathability at the same time.
Now, let’s talk about the following things:
- How Fabric Weight Plays a Critical Role in Durability and Fit of Tees
- Advantages of Blended Fabric in Modern T-Shirts
- Key T-Shirt Fabric Terms to Know to Decode Essential Tees for Smart Shopping
How Fabric Weight Plays a Critical Role in Durability and Fit of Tees
Do you know fabric weight plays an important role in determining the durability and fit of tees? If you do not know, you are going to find that out now. Here is how the fabric weight of t-shirts impacts their durability and fit:
Lightweight Tees - the Fit and Durable
Due to their lightweight, they offer a loose fit. In addition, these t-shirts are less durable than midweight and heavyweight tees.
Midweight Tees - the Fit and Durable
Midweight t-shirts tend to have just the right fit, as they have weight in between lightweight and heavyweight tees. However, these t-shirts are more durable than the former but less durable than the latter.
Heavyweight Tees - the Fit and Durable
Heavyweight t-shirts tend to offer a structured fit because of their thicker fabric. In fact, they are ideal for an oversized fit for those looking for a comfy and polished look. What’s more? These tees are more durable than their midweight and lightweight counterparts.
Advantages of Blended Fabric in Modern T-Shirts
The following are the advantages of modern t-shirts made of blended fabrics, which you wear:
- Comfort
- Soft Feel
- Durability
- Sweat-wicking
- Shape Retention
- Color Retention
- Exceptional Drape and Fit (with a Tri-Blend Tee, in Particular, Made of Cotton, Polyester, and Rayon)
Key T-Shirt Fabric Terms to Know to Decode Essential Tees for Smart Shopping
Do you know you can shop for tees smartly online if you know key t-shirt fabric terms? That is to say, t-shirts made of different fabrics, like cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics. For instance, you can type cotton t-shirts to find cotton tees. Or blended t-shirts, such as a tri-blend tee, to find tees made of blended fabrics. So, it is helpful to know the fabric terms to shop for t-shirts smartly online.
Next, we’ll talk about the different types of fit for t-shirts. And how those fits can affect your style, comfort, and confidence.
Right Fit for Your T-Shirts
Choosing the right fit for t-shirts matters. In fact, it is more than just picking t-shirts available in a ready-made size. It is all about what suits your body and style besides the occasions. Not to mention, the right fit can affect your style, comfort, and confidence. So, let us help you understand that in light of the following things:
- Slim, Regular, and Oversized Fits - What’s the Difference?
- Why T-Shirt Sleeve Length Matters for a Look and Feel?
- Understanding Body Shapes and Fit Types
- Tailoring T-Shirts: Achieving a Custom Fit
Slim, Regular, and Oversized Fits - What’s the Difference?
Here is the difference between slim, regular, and oversized fits for t-shirts:
Slim Fit
Slim fit is a fit for t-shirts that hug the body closely. As a result, it creates a polished and up-to-date look. What’s more? T-shirts in slim fit suit those with a lean or an athletic build.
Moreover, the following are the occasions when slim fit tees are ideal to wear:
- Casual Outings
- Nights Out
- Smart-Casual Events
Regular Fit
Regular fit is a fit for t-shirts, which is neither too tight nor too loose. Wearing tees in this fit lets people accomplish a balanced yet comfortable look. And regular fit t-shirts suit those who neither like the snug fit of a slim tee nor the loose fit of a relaxed one.
In addition, the following are the occasions when regular fit tees are ideal to wear:
- Everyday-Casual Wear
- Casual Fridays at Work
Oversized Fit
T-shirts in an oversized fit have an oversized cut. These tees are loose-fitting and comfortable to wear. Further, oversized fit t-shirts suit people with athletic builds or those who prefer a relaxed yet comfortable fit. Furthermore, the following are some ideal occasions to wear an oversized t-shirt:
- Everyday Casual
- Weekend Outings
- Pre or Post Workouts
Why T-Shirt Sleeve Length Matters for a Look and Feel?
Besides the fit, t-shirt sleeve lengths matter for accomplishing different looks and feel. We have summarized below how based on some of their types:
- Raglan Sleeves (¾) - Let You Accomplish a More Casual Look and Feel
- Dolman Sleeves - Let You Achieve a Slouchier Appearance and a Looser Feel
- Short Sleeves - Let You Accomplish Casual and Classic Looks with an Airy Feel
Understanding Body Shapes and Fit Types
It is important to know your body shape (built) to choose the right fit. In any case, we have mentioned below the right fit for t-shirts for different body types:
- Slim fit t-shirts are ideal for people with an athletic build.
- Regular fit t-shirts suit people with an average build.
- People with larger builds can opt for oversized or relaxed fit t-shirts.
Based on your body type, you can choose the right tees. For example, larger size t-shirts, such as XL (Extra Large) tee will suit you if you have a larger build. However, your ideal size for tees can vary if you have an athletic build as a man or woman. Ranging from M (Medium ) to Extra Large (XL) as a man, and Small (S) to Large (L) as a woman.
Also, make sure you look at the size chart of a brand for tees to avoid sizing pitfalls with t-shirts. In this respect, measure yourself accurately first to eventually choose tees in the right fit and size.
Tailoring T-Shirts: Achieving a Custom Fit
In order to achieve a custom or personalized fit with t-shirts, remember a few things, including the following:
- Know your body type, such as slim or muscular, to choose tees in the right fit.
- Also, know what your chest, waist, and shoulders measure.
How to Find the Best Fit When Trying T-Shirts On
When trying t-shirts on to find the best fit for off-the-rack (readymade) tees in stores in-person or online, stick to the following tips:
- Try first in stores in-person or check the size of the shirt when buying online.
- Always check the shoulder seams and make sure they align with the edge of your shoulders.
- Test a t-shirt for an ideal length, as well-fitting tees should let you move comfortably.
- Feel the fabric of the tees for comfort and stretchability for ease of movement.
- Experiment with different styles of tees to choose one, such as a V-neck tee. Such as the one that does not compromise your comfort, style, and confidence.
Besides the fabric and fit, the style of t-shirts matters, too, to choose the best t-shirts. Next, we’ll talk about it in depth to help you choose the right tees for yourself.
Design and Style Considerations for T-Shirts
Knowing your personality and needs for t-shirts, you can choose t-shirts in the right style. We are going to explain it to you next in light of the following:
- Find Your Perfect Style with These Design Insights
- Seasonal Trends in T-Shirt Design
- Color Selection for Tees - Understand the Power
- Graphic T-Shirts vs. Plain T-Shirts: When to Choose Each?
- Choosing T-Shirts for Different Occasions
Find Your Perfect Style with These Design Insights
Here are design insights you need to know to choose tees in the perfect style for yourself:
Know Your Personal Preference
In What Fit (the Right Fit) and for What Purpose (Casual or Work) Are You Seeking a T-Shirt?
Consider Colors
Which You Like to Wear and Type of Tees You Are after. (Blank or Custom, for Example)
Ponder the Best T-shirt Fabric
That is, a T-shirt Made of Fabric You Feel Comfortable Wearing.
Seasonal Trends in T-Shirt Design
When it comes to t-shirt designs, seasonal trends also come into play. That is to say, t-shirts with certain designs or styles become a hot topic with changing seasons. For instance, short-sleeved and a lighter fabric (lightweight tee) remains a popular choice for the summer. And heavier fabric tees and long-sleeve options remain a pick for the fall or winter. So, make sure you stay ahead of the curve and know trending styles for t-shirts in a specific season.
Color Selection for Tees - Understand the Power
Please know that colors have meanings. And color selection in apparel, such as tees, can let you express how you feel. For example, red is a bold and attention-grabbing color. And wearing tees in red colors showcases to others you are passionate and confident. On the other hand, wearing tees in blue colors depicts you as a loyal and reliable person. In addition, wearing a black t-shirt can leave a long-lasting impression of yours on others. Therefore, understand the power of colors to choose the right t-shirts to express your personality in style to others.
Graphic T-Shirts vs. Plain T-Shirts: When to Choose Each?
The two styles of t-shirts, in general, are graphic and plain t-shirts. Graphic tees can have witting slogans, striking designs, or a nod to our beloved pop culture reference. Contrarily, plain tees are without designs. Now the question stands: When to choose each of these tees? We have mentioned below occasions when to wear graphic and plain tees:
When to Choose Graphic T-Shirts?
Here are the occasions when graphics tees are the right choice:
- Casual Day Out
- Music Festivals and Concerts
- Night Out
When to Choose Plain T-Shirts?
Here are the occasions when plain tees are the right choice:
- Smart Casual (Semi-formal Gatherings, for Example)
- Summer Casual (Beach Outing, for Instance)
- Athleisure (Hitting the Gym, as an Example)
Choosing T-Shirts for Different Occasions
When choosing t-shirts for different occasions, never forget about the t-shirt’s quality and durability. Not to mention, it is the best fabric that defines the best quality and durable t-shirts. Thus, you should choose a t-shirt for a specific occasion accordingly.
For instance, t-shirts made of soft and breathable fabrics are ideal for casual settings. And those with moisture-wicking properties are ideal for workouts or outdoor activities. In addition, here are some of our style tips for wearing t-shirts for casual outings and formal events:
- Pair a Tee with Denim Jeans or Shorts Plus Accessorized with a Hat, for Example, for a Casual Look.
- Choose a Well-Fitted T-shirt in a Neutral Color. And Enhance Your Formal Look with Layers, Paired with Tailored Pants (Bottoms), and Accessorized with a Belt, for Example.
The best t-shirt fabric certainly defines the best tee. But do you know quality stitching and seams also help you spot high-quality tees? Let’s find out next how to spot quality stitching and seams in t-shirts.
How to Spot Quality Stitching and Seams in Tees
T-shirts made of natural fibers, like cotton and silk, are indeed high-quality. However, you need to consider their stitching and seams to identify the best tees. So how can you identify them? Let’s find out next.
How to Identify Quality Stitching in T-Shirts
T-shirts of high quality have the right stitching. That is, tight, even, and straight. So, consider the aforementioned things to identify quality t-shirts with the right stitching.
How to Identify Quality Seams in T-Shirts
Double-stitched and finished seams are what you should look for to identify quality t-shirts. The former adds strength and durability to a t-shirt. And the latter prevents the garment from fraying to maintain its shape over time.
Moreover, we are going to share with you signs next, which can help you find high-quality tees for yourself.
Signs of a High-Quality T-Shirt
There are certain signs to look for to find high-quality t-shirts to wear. Here are those signs:
- Thicker Fabric
- Neat Appearance
- Quality Stitching
- Stretchability without the Appearance of White Lines
- Elasticity for T-shirts with 1% Spandex for a Comfortable Fit
Differences Between High-end (Top-Notch) and Budget-friendly (Inexpensive) T-Shirts
Now, let's explore the characteristics of high-end tees in brief, which differentiates them from cheaper t-shirts:
Material (Fabric)
High-end t-shirts are superior t-shirts to wear, for a good reason. That is, they are made of superior materials, like Pima cotton, unlike cheaper tees.
Craftsmanship
Apparel manufacturers produce the highest quality t-shirts with expert craftsmanship. In fact, these t-shirts undergo precise stitching, reinforced seams, and contemplative construction. For the same reason, they are expensive to produce and cost more than budget-friendly tees.
Durability
As apparel manufacturers use top-notch materials to produce high-end t-shirts, they last a long time as compared to their cheaper counterparts. Also, there are simple tests you can perform to test the durability of tees. The same holds for identifying a performance polo or an athletic jersey polo. Checking the fabric and seam, to mention a few tests for durability. Not to mention, taking good care of your tees ensures your t-shirts will last for a long time. Based on what we have mentioned above, high-end t-shirts have the upper hand over budget tees. Still, it doesn’t mean there are not any high-quality tees you can buy on a budget. There are brands that produce high-quality budget tees. Gildan is one of the best brands for budget tees, and Next Level Apparel is one of the best for high-end tees. Let us talk about these brands next succinctly.
Gildan (Budget) and Next Level Apparel (High-end) - T-Shirt Brands
Here is what you need to know about the brands Gildan and Next Level Apparel:
Gildan
Gildan is unquestionably a go-to choice for many individuals and businesses for t-shirts. Are you surprised we have also mentioned businesses here? The reason for this is that blank tees from Gildan are excellent for screen printing. So they are perfect for branding for a business with logo printing. Not to mention, Gildan tees are inexpensive to produce and come in a wider variety.
Next Level Apparel
Next Level Apparel is a high-end brand for blank t-shirts. Still, the t-shirts this brand produces are affordable to get hands on. What makes it a high-end t-shirt brand is the quality of the t-shirts it produces. That is to say, the softness, durability, and appeal of the t-shirts that Next Level Apparel produces.
Moreover, you can shop for tees from the aforementioned brands in bulk online at Veetrends. Buying in bulk there will let you enjoy bulk savings and highly likely free shipping.
What is Ethical Fashion? Doing It with Tees
Are you a fashion enthusiast who also cares for the environment? In that case, ethical fashion is what you love to do. That is, wearing eco-friendly apparel, such as t-shirts, to do fashion and portray your lifestyle to others. Luckily, there are eco-friendly t-shirt brands you can find and choose to purchase eco-friendly tees. In this respect, here are some tips you can take advantage of:
- Look for t-shirt labels that guarantee eco-friendly practices
- Choose tees made of natural fabrics.
- Or opt for t-shirts made of recycled fabrics.
Before jumping to our conclusion, we want to talk about the following things as a bonus:
- The Lifecycle of a T-Shirt: From Fabric to Recycling
- How to Shrink a T-Shirt: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Lifecycle of a T-Shirt: From Fabric to Recycling
Here are the lifecycle stages of a tee, from the fabric to recycling:
Stage 1: Material Selection, Such as Cotton
Stage 2: Processing and Production
Step 3: Packaging and Shipping (to Retailers)
Step 4: Purchase and Use (Individuals and Businesses)
Step 5: Disposal or Recycling
In stage 5, people may throw away old t-shirts after use as trash. However, it is not a good practice when it comes to preserving the environment. Instead, you should opt to recycle or upcycle unwanted tees after use. In fact, there are recycling programs to do that, such as retailer recycling programs.
How to Shrink a T-Shirt: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a step-by-step guide on shrinking a tee:
- Check the care label first for specific washing and drying instructions.
- Wash the t-shirt in hot water as per the care label.
- Tumble dry on the heat settings recommended. Repeat if necessary.
- Finally, air dry the tee.
Conclusion
Understanding t-shirt fabrics matters to choose the best one. Some of those types include cotton, polyester, and linen. Cotton (natural) is the best t-shirt fabric to wear in the hot weather to feel cool. And polyester (synthetic) is the best material for working out. In fact, both natural and synthetic fabrics have their pros & cons. Both breathability and comfort are important factors to consider when choosing the right fabric tees. Also, it is important you choose tees in the right fit for yourself. That is in the fit you feel comfortable wearing. Knowing your body type can help you choose tees in the right fit.
Moreover, consider the design and style of the t-shirts for wearing on different occasions. Casual and semi-formal occasions, to mention a few. To finish, high-quality fabrics and the eco-friendliness of tees translate to high quality.
FAQs
How to stretch a t-shirt?Here are three easy steps you can follow to stretch a t-shirt:
Step 1: Put your tee in warm water, mix with a mild detergent, and let it soak for 10-15 minutes.
Step 2: Rinse the t-shirt in cold water for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Hand stretch the tee while it is slightly damp but do not use excessive force, and let it dry.
The best t-shirt fabric is cotton because of its comfort and breathability, in particular.
What is the best material for printing on shirts?The best material for printing on t-shirts is 100% cotton, in general.
What t-shirt material doesn't shrink?
100% polyester or blended tees with high polyester content won’t shrink or shrink less than 100% cotton tees.
What t-shirt material does not wrinkle?
Polyester tees and blended tees with polyester content tend to wrinkle less than 100% cotton.
