White T-shirt and the neckline of your undershirt

Short answer: The neckline of an undershirt can show through a white T-shirt, especially if its opening sits higher than the T-shirt's. Choose an undershirt with a round neck that sits lower than the T-shirt's, in a colour close to your skin.

Why the edge shows

A white T-shirt is thin enough that darker or thicker fabric underneath shows. The neck is where two layers meet and can end up offset. The edge is also often a little thicker because it is sewn double, and that is the part you see.

The opening should sit lower

The rule is simple: the neckline of the undershirt should sit lower than that of the T-shirt. Then the edge stays hidden, even when you move. A round neck under a round neck needs the undershirt to be wider at the opening. Try both on and look in the mirror before you leave the house.

Colour counts more than you think

Many assume a white undershirt is the safe choice under a white T-shirt, but it often shows through more strongly. A colour close to your own skin disappears better. Hold the fabric against the T-shirt in good light and pick the tone that shows the least.

V-neck or round neck

A V-neck stays hidden under most round neck T-shirts because it sits lower. If the T-shirt itself is cut deep, a round neck fits less well. Choose by the T-shirt you wear most often, and think about whether you want to open the top button of a shirt without showing the edge.

Flat fabric without a stiff edge

A soft edge without thick seams lies flat against the skin and does not show through. Feel the neck before you buy, and choose the one that is thin and soft. A stiff edge can also chafe at the nape, so it does not belong close under a thin T-shirt.

Fit at the neck

If the undershirt sits loose at the neck, it slides to one side and shows the edge. If it lies close without pulling, it stays where it is. Turn your head and lift your arms so you can feel whether the opening moves, and check that the edge stays hidden.

Washing and keeping white white

Wash the white T-shirt according to the care label and separately from dark clothes, so it does not pick up colour. Do not dry it for hours in direct sun if the label advises against it. A T-shirt that has turned grey also shows more through, so look after it.

The rest of the basics on the skin

Once the neck is right, you can think of the rest. A top in soft fabric over it can be found among bamboo sweat for men, and at the bottom bamboo boxer briefs give a calm base. Also see bestsellers from Copenhagen Bamboo if you want an overview of what is chosen most often.

Frequently asked questions

Does the undershirt have to be white under a white T-shirt?

Not necessarily. A colour close to your skin often shows through less, so try both and look in good light before you decide.

Which neckline is best under a white T-shirt?

One that sits lower than the T-shirt's opening, so the edge stays hidden. A V-neck often works well under a T-shirt with an ordinary round neck.

What if the edge still shows?

Try an undershirt with a lower opening or another colour, and check that it sits close at the neck. If the T-shirt is very thin, a different T-shirt can also help.

See our range of bamboo t-shirts for men.