What to wear under a knitted sweater

Short answer: Under a knitted sweater you need a soft, thin layer that lies calmly against the skin and does not bulge under the knit. An ordinary T-shirt or a thin top works well, and the key things are a smooth surface and a fit that does not bunch.

Knit against the skin can be too much

Many knits have a coarse surface, and some can irritate the skin, especially at the neck and wrists. A layer in between lets you wear a thick sweater all day without thinking about it. It is also a simple way to look after the knit itself.

A thin T-shirt as the base

The simplest solution is a thin T-shirt in a soft fabric. It sits close enough not to bunch, but not so tight that it shows through the knit. Browse the bamboo T-shirts for women, and choose a calm colour that does not show through.

The neckline must suit the sweater

Look at the neckline of the sweater before choosing what goes under it. If the sweater has a deep round neck, the T-shirt should not peek above the edge, and with a high collar a round neck can be enough. It does not need sharp lines if the edges do not meet neatly.

The length under the knit

Knitted sweaters vary a lot in length, so check where it ends. A T-shirt that hangs lower than the sweater looks careless, and one that is too short can creep up when you lift your arms. Choose a length that covers the lower back and ends a little above or level with the knit.

Sleeves: short, long or none

If the sweater is thick, a short-sleeved T-shirt or a top can be plenty, because the sleeves do not lie close. If you feel the cold, a long-sleeved top can keep wrists and arms warm under a sweater with short sleeves. Also make sure the sleeves do not twist inside the knit.

What about the bra

A knitted sweater can show the outline of what is underneath, especially if the knit is loose and light. Choose a bra without thick edges and rough seams so it does not show. You can read more about the bamboo bra, which is made to sit softly under clothes.

When the sweater has to come off in the warmth

Indoors a thick sweater soon gets too warm, and then it is nice to take it off without standing there in your underwear. So choose a T-shirt that looks good on its own, so you can take off the knit at the office or on the bus. That gives you freedom to adjust to the temperature.

Looking after the layers

Knitwear is washed less often than what lies beneath. The soft T-shirt takes the sweat and can be washed more often, while the sweater is only aired or washed by the care label. Dry the knit flat and fold it instead of hanging it. See also the bamboo sweat for women if you want a soft layer on top.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear a T-shirt under a knitted sweater?

Yes, it is one of the simplest solutions. Choose a thin T-shirt in a soft fabric and a colour that does not show through, and make sure it does not rise above the neckline.

Should the layer under the knit be tight?

No, it should sit calmly and close enough not to bunch, but not so tight that it presses. An ordinary fit without extra fabric works under most knits.

How often should I wash a knitted sweater?

Knit is washed less often when a layer underneath takes the sweat. Air it out, and follow the care label when it does need washing, so it keeps its shape.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.