Choosing a T Shirt The Basics
Introduction to choosing a T Shirt the basics
When it comes to building a versatile and stylish wardrobe, a t-shirt is a must-have item. However, not all t-shirts are created equal. Choosing the right t-shirt can make a big difference in terms of comfort, style, and overall appearance. In this post, we will go over the basics of choosing a t-shirt, including different materials, fits, colour and brands, and even more. By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of how to find the perfect t-shirt for your needs and personal style.
A quick guide to different materials
One of the most important considerations when choosing a t-shirt is the material. Different types of materials have different properties that can affect the overall comfort and durability of the shirt. Some of the most common materials used for t-shirts include:
- Cotton: Cotton is a natural, breathable fabric that is known for its softness and durability. It is the most popular choice for t-shirts because it is comfortable to wear and easy to care for. However, cotton can shrink if not washed properly and may wrinkle easily.
- Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic, that is known for its durability and it’s resistance to wrinkle. It is often used in sportswear and workout clothes because it dries quickly and wicks away moisture. However, polyester can be less breathable than cotton, which can make it less comfortable to wear in hot and humid weather.
- Rayon: Rayon is a synthetic fabric that is made from wood pulp. It is known for its softness and drapability, making it a popular choice for casual t-shirts. Rayon is not as strong as cotton and will wrinkle easily. Rayon is also no considered an environmentally sustainable material, for the best care it is also advised that it be dry cleaned.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is a natural, sustainable fabric that is known for its softness and breathability. It requires less water and pesticides to grow compared to cotton. However, Bamboo can be more expensive than other fabrics. Bamboo also uses chemicals to produce the fabric that are harmful to human health and the environment. Bamboo also has a tendency to shrink if the correct care is not followed.
When choosing a t-shirt, consider your personal preferences, comfort, and the occasion the t-shirt will be used for. Cotton is a good option for everyday wear, while polyester is a better choice for workout clothes. Bamboo is a great option for those who want to use a sustainable fabric.
It is also important to note that some T-shirts are made of blends, meaning they are made of more than one type of fabric. These blends are designed to improve the overall performance look and feel of the fabric.
About the Fit
The fit of a t-shirt is another important consideration when choosing the right shirt. Different fits can flatter different body types and personal styles. Some of the most common fit options include:
- Regular fit: This is the most traditional and versatile fit option. Regular fit t-shirts have a relaxed and comfortable fit that works well for most body types. (Sometimes referred to as Australian Fit). The Sportage Surf T Shirt is a good example of this style.
- Slim fit: This fit option is designed to be more fitted and closer to the body. It is a good choice for those who want a more modern and streamlined look. The CB Clothing men and ladies fitted T Shirt is a good example.
- Loose fit: This fit option is designed to be more relaxed and loose-fitting. It is a good choice for those who prefer a more casual and comfortable look. The AS Colour Block and Heavy T Shirt are great examples.
- Tailored fit: This is a more fitted option that is designed to flatter the wearer’s physique, making it a great option for those who want to show off their body. The AS Colour Maple T Shirt is the perfect example of this style.
- Classic fit: Very similar to the Tailored fit, with the advantage of being a little longer in the body. The AS Colour Staple is a perfect example of this fit.
When measuring for the perfect fit, it’s important to take into account the ½ chest, and length measurements along with the shoulder cut. It’s also important to consider how you want the t-shirt to fit your body, whether it be tight, lose or somewhere in between.
It’s also worth noting that some brands may have slightly different fits, so it’s always a good idea to check the size guide or try on a t-shirt before buying it, referencing brand images, style guide and size chart will give you a great reference if you are purchasing online.
In conclusion, the fit of a t-shirt is important as it can affect the overall look and feel of the shirt. When choosing a t-shirt, consider your personal style and body type to find the perfect fit.
Considering the Colour and Design
Colour and design are two important factors that can affect the overall style and appearance of a t-shirt.
When choosing the colour of a t-shirt, it’s important to consider your skin tone. Some colours may complement your skin tone better than others. For example, cool skin tones tend to look best in cool colours like blue and green, while warm skin tones tend to look best in warm colours like yellow and orange. Neutral skin tones can usually pull off any colour.
When choosing the design of a t-shirt, consider your personal style and the occasion for which the shirt will be worn. A simple, solid colour t-shirt is a great option for a more professional or formal occasion, while a t-shirt with a bold or graphic design is a good choice for everyday wear or a casual event.
It’s also worth noting that the design of a t-shirt can affect the overall style and appearance of the shirt. Graphic tees, for example, can be a great way to express your personal style and make a statement. Creating a T Shirt with a Custom Print can take this to the next level.
When choosing a t-shirt, consider the colour and design that will best complement your skin tone and personal style. A well-chosen t-shirt can be a versatile and stylish addition to any wardrobe.
Additionally, it’s also important to consider the care instructions and the longevity of the design of the T-shirt, as some designs may fade or wear poorly over time.
Considering the Weight of the Material
The GSM of a t-shirt refers to the weight of the fabric in grams per square meter. Generally speaking, a higher GSM weight corresponds to a thicker and heavier fabric. Conversely, a lower GSM weight typically indicates a lighter, more breathable fabric.
- Typical a good GSM range for a t-shirt is 150 to 180GSM, which is considered a balance of breathability and durability.
- It’s worth noting that lightweight t-shirts may have a GSM weight of around 120 to 130GSM, while heavier options may have a GSM of 200 or more.
It’s important to keep in mind that GSM weight is not the sole determinant of a t-shirt’s quality, other factors such as thread count, fabric composition, and weave of the fabric also play a role.
When selecting a t-shirt, it’s advisable to consider the intended use of the garment, for example, a lower GSM may be more suitable for hot weather, while a higher GSM may be more appropriate for colder climates.
About different Brands
When choosing a t-shirt, it’s important to consider the brand. Different brands have different reputations for quality and style. Some popular t-shirt brands in Australia include AS Colour, CB Clothing, Ramo, and Sportage, plus many, many more.
AS Colour is a popular brand known for its high-quality, durable t-shirts. They offer a wide range of styles, colours, and fits to suit any taste. They focus on sustainable production, and using ethical and responsible sourced T Shirts and Apparel.
CB Clothing is a brand that offers range of t-shirts in different colours and styles and are made using Australian Cotton. They are known for their high-quality fabrics and durable construction, making them a great choice for everyday wear while supporting our Australian farmers.
Ramo is a popular brand known for having different and difficult to find styles. They are known for their quality fabrics, and for their unique designs that make a statement. These T Shirts are exclusively made in China, and from Chinese Cotton.
Sportage is a brand that offers a range of quality T Shirts in mainly Australian Fit, including t-shirts that are perfect for exercise and general wear. They are known for their quality fabrics and affordable pricing, making them a great choice for the budget minded.
When choosing a t-shirt, consider the brand’s reputation for quality and style. A well-known and reputable brand can provide you with a high-quality, durable t-shirt that will last for years to come.
It’s also worth noting that some brands may have higher price points, but this may reflect the quality of the materials and the production process. It’s always a good idea to read reviews and check the brand’s reputation before making a purchase.
In Conclusion
Choosing the right t-shirt can be a daunting task, with so many options available in terms of material, fit, colour, design, and brand. However, by considering each of these factors, you can find the perfect t-shirt to suit your personal style and needs.
When choosing a t-shirt, consider the material, which should be comfortable and breathable. The fit should be suited to your body type and personal style, whether it be regular, slim, lose, classic or tailored fit.
Colour and design are also important factors to consider. The colour should complement your skin tone, and the design should reflect your personal style and the occasion for which the shirt will be worn.
Finally, consider the brand of the t-shirt. A well-known and reputable brand can provide you with a high-quality, durable t-shirt that will last for years to come.
We strongly believe, by considering all of these factors, you can find the perfect t-shirt to suit your needs and personal style. Whether you’re looking for a simple, solid colour t-shirt or a bold, graphic design, there’s a t-shirt out there for you.
In general, we believe that it is difficult to find T-Shirts that surpasses the following options in terms of overall quality and style,
- The AS Colour Staple T Shirt, it is a good weight and made in a classic style that looks great on the average man.
- The AS Colour Maple T Shirt, 180 GSM in a tailored fit that will look good on the average lady.
It is important to take into consideration all of the information here and make your own informed choice.
Some Additional Resource
There are many resources available to help you choose the perfect t-shirt. Here are a few options to use when making your choice:
- Online reviews: Many websites and forums have reviews of different t-shirts, so you can read about the experiences of other buyers. This can be a great way to get a sense of the quality and fit of different t-shirts.
- Style guides: Many clothing brands have style guides that can help you choose the right t-shirt for your body type and personal style. These guides often include information on fit, colour, and design, as well as recommendations for different occasions.
- Blogs and fashion websites: There are many blogs and websites that focus on fashion and style, with many of them providing helpful tips and advice for choosing the perfect t-shirt.
By using these resources, you can ensure that you’re getting the best t-shirt for your needs and personal style.
About the Author
A quick note about the author, David Seth, he is an experienced professional in the T-Shirt printing industry with over 12 years of experience. He has a deep understanding of the various aspects of t-shirt design and production, and is passionate about the industry. His expertise and passion for t-shirts make him the ideal author for a blog on choosing the perfect t-shirt.
Update
This Post was updated on the 28/01/23 to better reflect changes in the T Shirt industry. We have made a conscious attempt to be more informative without telling our customers to use a brand or style and leave the choice up to you.