In a wardrobe filled with staple pieces, it’s important to know about the very basics: T-shirts. Whether you love a neutral base layer or something brighter to be the focal point of an outfit, there are lots of different styles and fits for every country lady and gentleman. That’s why we’ve created a guide to show the different types of T-shirts everyone should know about.
What are the Main Types of T-Shirts for Women?
There are lots of choices of styles for women when it comes to T-shirts, whether you’re after a new style or want something a little more classic. Maybe you prefer to stick to neutral shades and don’t like much colour in your wardrobe, so everything is mix and match? Perhaps you love tonnes of colour and know that T-shirts are a cheaper way to introduce new shades and patterns into your closet?
A Crew Neck T-Shirt
The most classic type of T-shirt is the crew neck. A crew neck is typically a round neck T-shirt, but the neck hole sits closer to the neck than a round neck top. This style tends to be fitted to your body, but should allow for some stretch too. It’s a great T-shirt to layer underneath knitwear and sweatshirts too, so consider buying in a few different colours.
A Polo Shirt
A cap-sleeved polo shirt is a great type of T-shirt for spring and summer as the focal part of any casual outfit. Bright colours and emblems make polo shirts stand out, and they can be dressed up or down easily with a change of jacket or footwear. Try a sleeveless style for keeping cool during the hottest days.
A V-Neck T-Shirt
Again, it’s a staple for most women as the V-shaped neckline is very flattering and feminine. A V-neck T-shirt looks just as good fitted or loose, so you really get to choose your fit here. Layer underneath jumpers or use it to add a pop of colour to your outfit.
A Square-Neck T-Shirt
Another flattering, feminine fit is the square neck, especially for those with a smaller chest. It’s a modern take on a classic fit, and this style looks great with cap sleeves or longer sleeves. Opt for block colours, from pastels to brights as well as neutrals, to help the neckline stand out.
A boat-Neck T-shirt
Keeping with the theme, a boat neck top elongates your shoulders, perfect for those with a smaller chest or narrow shoulders. It’s a popular design for striped Breton tops, and is a great way to add a pop of subtle colour to your look.
A Rugby Shirt
Similar to a polo shirt, rugby shirts are a long-sleeved casual top, but can also be dressed up for smart-casual occasions. They often come in rich jewel tones, giving them a real ladylike feel to your outfit.
A Vest Top
Vests are perfect as standalone pieces during the summer, underneath a cardigan in spring, or under a jumper during autumn and winter. A vest as a base layer should be fitted to retain heat, whereas a vest as a main T-shirt can also be a bit baggier. Cotton is the best vest material, as it can keep you warm during colder months and cool during warmer months.
Ready to get that effortless summer look? A skirt is the way to go, and we've given you the lowdown on all types of skirts to elevate your wardrobe!
A Thermal T-Shirt
Thermals are no longer a layer that you have to hide. Now they consist of bright colours and patterns, along with a range of sleeve lengths. Long-sleeved thermals are the best option for winter, so you can keep warm from your shoulders to your wrists and the full length of your top half!
What are the Main Types of T-Shirts for Men?
When it comes to men’s T-shirts, there are plenty of classic styles to stick to as well as some newer fits, which have become very popular in recent years. Most men stick with the same couple of colours and styles because they know what suits them. T-shirts are a cheap way to try something new without breaking the bank.
A Crew Neck T-Shirt
Once again, a crew neck T-shirt should be a staple for any gentleman, even those who prefer a smarter style of dress. It’s an item that you can layer as an undershirt when it’s cooler outside, and crew neck T-shirts in white and black are necessities for any man. It’s also an inexpensive way to try a new colour to see if it matches anything in your wardrobe.
A Henley T-Shirt
A Henley T-shirt is considered a modern style yet has been seen on the high street for years now. You can spot a Henley top by the buttons up the front, often around three from the neck down. This style tends to come in a ribbed cotton material and is usually long-sleeved. It’s more of a casual design, but it can still look smart under a tweed blazer.
A Vest Top
Vests are still popular amongst men, especially as a layering piece. Many men wear them underneath knitwear and sweatshirts as a base layer, and have a handful of colours for exactly that which will be sure to be useful across the seasons. However, they look just as good on their own when the sun is shining and the temperature heats up!
A Thermal Top
Again, thermal tops are a must for anyone living or visiting the countryside, sometimes even in the summer! Long-sleeved thermals tend to be the most practical, but short sleeves or a vest design can be worn during spring and autumn when it’s cooler but not freezing cold. Think practicality over style with thermals, as its most important function is keeping you as warm as possible.
A Polo Shirt
Another staple for countryside folk is a polo shirt, as it can be used to add colour to an otherwise neutral outfit. Paired with jeans and smart shoes, you can wear it to a range of casual occasions or even for smart-casual events, such as family meals out. Wear in your favourite colour to stand out and show off your personality.
Struggling to find the right jeans for your body shape? Our blog post has all the tips you need to know!
A Rugby Shirt
One of our most popular T-shirt designs has to be a long-sleeved rugby shirt. They’re incredibly versatile and wearable for lots of occasions amongst country gentlemen, with many of our customers purchasing them in more than one colour! It’s one of those tops that once you have one, you’ll start to live in!
With so many choices on the market, it can be overwhelming with the different types of T-shirts for men and women. However, with a few classic styles, you can create a collection of tops that can be mixed and matched with just about every single bottom-half item in your wardrobe.
