A T-shirt that does not turn see through

Short answer: Choose a heavier quality and a darker colour. See through fabric comes from thin material and light colour, not from the fibre itself, and an extra layer underneath solves the rest.

Weight matters most

A thin fabric lets more light through, whatever fibre it is made from. A T-shirt in a heavier quality has more threads per centimetre and is therefore denser. It covers better, both what you wear underneath and outlines. Feel the fabric before you choose and hold it up to the light. See the qualities in the most popular styles for women.

Colour matters almost as much

White and light shades are always more see through than dark ones, because they hold back less light. Black and navy cover the most. Grey, sand and mid tones sit in between. To avoid the problem entirely, choose a dark colour from the most popular styles and keep the light colours for days with an extra layer.

The light around you

The same T-shirt can look opaque indoors and see through in strong sunlight or under bright lamps. Light from behind reveals the most. So check the T-shirt by a window before wearing it to a meeting or a party. It takes a few seconds and tells you whether you need a layer underneath.

Fit plays a part

A tight T-shirt stretches the fabric, so the stitches open and more light gets through. The same T-shirt in a size with a little more room lies denser and covers better. Choose a fit that sits lightly against you without pulling across the bust. That makes the T-shirt more comfortable and less see through.

A layer underneath solves the rest

A tank top or a thin top underneath adds an extra layer and removes the problem, even with a light T-shirt. It is the simplest solution if you like white and light colours. The top should be smooth and close fitting so it does not show through. See the bamboo tops for women.

The colour of your underwear

Many think white underwear is best under a white T-shirt, but it is often the opposite. White shows through, while a colour close to your skin tone almost disappears. That goes for both bra and top. If you do not have a skin toned one, choose a light grey or beige shade that is closer to your skin than pure white.

Test before you go out

Put the T-shirt on and stand with your back to a window or a lamp. Look in a mirror, and try your phone camera too, as it often shows more than the eye. If you clearly see outlines, choose a layer underneath or another T-shirt. It is better to notice at home than in the middle of the day.

Washing does not change density

Many hope a T-shirt will become denser after a few washes, but that does not happen. Washing does not change how tightly the fabric is knitted. Gentle washing at 40 degrees does keep the colour and surface looking good, so a dark T-shirt keeps covering well. Avoid the tumble dryer, as heat can thin the fabric over time.

Frequently asked questions

Do white T-shirts always become see through

In thin qualities yes, at least in strong light. A heavier quality helps a lot, and a skin toned layer underneath solves most of the rest.

Does washing help

No. Washing does not change the density of the fabric. Gentle washing does keep the colour and surface looking good for longer, so the T-shirt stays tidy.

Which colour is least see through

Black and navy cover the most. Grey and mid tones sit in between, while white and very light colours show the most, especially in strong light.