T-shirt beneath a button-down on a long meeting day

Short answer: Under a shirt the T-shirt should be smooth, thin enough not to show and long enough to stay down. Choose a crew neck that does not peek out, and change it if it gets damp on a long meeting day.

Why wear a T-shirt under the shirt

Many people wear a T-shirt under the shirt to have an extra layer against the skin, so the shirt does not rub directly. It can also add a little warmth in cold meeting rooms. It is a simple habit, but the choice of T-shirt decides whether it helps or only gets in the way.

Neck and neckline

If the top button of the shirt is to stay open, the neck of the T-shirt must not peek out. A high crew neck can show, while a V-neck is more discreet. Stick to a neckline that sits below the shirt collar, so it does not look as if you dressed in a hurry.

The fabric should be thin and smooth

A thick or coarse fabric makes bumps under the shirt and may show on the outside. Choose a T-shirt with a thin, smooth fabric that lies flat against the body. Try pulling the shirt on over it and check in the mirror whether any creases or seams press through.

Colour, so it does not show through

White shirts often give away dark T-shirts, and light tones such as skin tone or pale grey hide better than pure white. So choose a colour close to the shirt, or a slightly darker neutral tone. Try it under the shirt in daylight before you decide.

Length and fit: stay down

A T-shirt under a shirt has to be long enough to be tucked into your trousers without riding up when you sit or reach. It should lie close without straining, or it bunches up. Check the length while seated, because that is where it often fails.

Sweat and moisture through the day

On a long meeting day with movement, nerves or a warm room, the T-shirt can get damp, and then the shirt clings to you. A breathable fabric usually feels better, but if you can, bring a spare T-shirt to change into at lunch.

When the day is long and warm

A T-shirt from bamboo T-shirts for men can serve as a soft, simple layer under the shirt without adding more than necessary. If you want something different, a bamboo sweatshirt for men can be pleasant once you get home and want to take the shirt off.

Washing so the T-shirt keeps looking neat

The T-shirt under the shirt is often washed many times, because it is changed daily. Wash it inside out following the care label and do not leave it crumpled in the laundry basket. Let it dry fully before you put it away, and change it when the edge at the neck begins to curl.

Which T-shirts are a safe choice

When in doubt, the plain ones are often best, because they do not add bulk under the shirt. Look at what others choose for everyday wear among the bestsellers for men, and pick a plain T-shirt without print or thick seams. You do not need more than one or two to rotate between.

Frequently asked questions

Should the T-shirt be tucked in?

Yes, under a shirt that is usually best so it does not bunch up. Choose a T-shirt long enough to stay down, even when you sit.

What colour under a white shirt?

A skin-toned or pale grey shade shows through less than pure white. Try it under the shirt in daylight before you decide.

What if I sweat under the shirt?

Choose a breathable fabric and change T-shirt during the day if you can. Bring a spare for lunch so the shirt does not cling to you for the rest of the day.