An ongoing investigation. How does one truly find the PERFECT T-shirt? Of course there is always going to be a preference aspect to the search. Some people may prefer a streetwear fit over a traditional menswear fit. Some may be looking for 100% cotton while others like something with a bit more durability. Some want their perfect t-shirt to be at a certain price point where others just want the best product available. All of these things must be considered when finding the one true perfect t-shirt and I realized that mine will not be the same as yours so I made a spread sheet to help you out.
How to Find The Perfect T-Shirt
I try to consider as many of these things as possible when doing my Search for the Perfect T-Shirt reviews, but at the end of the day I am just one man. All I can really do is provide my personal opinion and then move on, right? Or perhaps, I could give you my opinion, with the style, price, and fit of a shirt alongside all of its competitiors that I have tried.
I decided that instead of just giving my original review of a t-shirt and putting it in a playlist on my TikTok page, I could instead create a running list of all the shirts I review that can be filtered and sorted so each of my viewers could easily find the best shirt for them.
Only like Menswear shirts? Easy. Need something with 100% cotton? You got it. Refuse to even look at a shirt if it is over $30? No problem at all. You can use this list to help you find the best possible shirt for yourself, whatever that may be.
Of course if you are a more visual person I have linked the original video review of each shirt in its corresponding row alongside a link to purchase to make it easier on you
Anything on Amazon I will make a small % but I am not an affiliate with any other company (although I wish I was).
I truly hope this helps at least one person find exactly what they are looking for. These reviews have been done over several years so I cannot guarentee that the scale for which they were judged are exactly the same, but I will say my greatest factors are and always have been, quality (feel) and fit, which while still subjective, are obvious to most.
I also considered including the measurements of each T but I realized that would only be specific to the size that I happened to buy. If there is anything that you could see being beneficial to anyone who uses this list please feel free to let me know. The easiest way to get a hold of me is most likely with an instagram dm @andrewkline_.
I appreciate everyone who has supported my platforms by following along with these reviews and I look forward to making more. Love you all!
Andrew P. Kline
The Details
Historical Context and Evolution
The T-shirt has come a long way from its humble beginnings as an undergarment in the 19th century. Originally a piece of workwear, it evolved into a symbol of rebellion in the mid-20th century, thanks to icons like James Dean and Marlon Brando. Today, it's a fashion staple that can be dressed up or down, a canvas for personal expression, and a crucial element in both streetwear and high fashion. Understanding this history adds another layer to our appreciation of the simple T-shirt. I am sure 50 years ago, the thought of spending $100 on a 2-pack of white t-shirts would sound insane (to some it still does) but as style changes people have prioritized different things. For myself, I would rather have less clothing but know that what I have is great.
Fabric Types and Their Impact
Different fabrics can drastically change the feel and functionality of a T-shirt. While 100% cotton is a favorite for its breathability and softness, it's not always the most durable. Cotton blends, incorporating materials like polyester or spandex, can offer a mix of comfort and resilience. Polyester, on its own, provides excellent durability and moisture-wicking properties but might not be as comfortable for those who prioritize softness. Each material has its pros and cons, and understanding these can help you make a more informed choice. This is why I added the '100% Cotton' column. If you feel it would be more beneficial to have more details here please feel free to let me know, but I thought this was a good start.
Sizing and Fit Guide
Navigating sizes can be a nightmare, especially with the variation across different brands. I normally try to ask the brands I work with (if I can make contact) what size they recommend before I order. I always recommend checking the sizing charts provided by the manufacturer and, if possible, reading customer reviews about fit. I like to measure whatever t-shirt I own that fits me best to use as a guide when looking at new shirts. If you'd like an idea of how I do this I can certainly work on that.
Brand Comparisons
In my quest for the perfect T-shirt, I've encountered a myriad of brands, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. High-end t-shirts like the Whitesville T offer luxury with a price tag to match, while more affordable options like Uniqlo provide great value without compromising too much on quality. Streetwear brands like Shaka Wear and Pro Club offer a unique fit and style that some prefer over a classic menswear fit. Use my videos as a guide to see what style you may like best and go from there. I found that I really like workwear style shirts like the Iron & Resin "Million Mile T" which I was not expecting.
Care Instructions for Longevity
Whenever you do find the "perfect t-shirt" for you, make sure you take care of it. Just becuase a shirt can be thrown in the dryer doesn't mean it should be. There are some shirts I have no problem throwing in the dryer after a wash like the Kirkland White T or the Goodfellow T from Target, but that is not always the case. Even some more affordable shirts like the Uniqlo Airism may be O.K. to dry but I probably wouldn't myself.
Thank You
This series of T-shirts has been so fun to make and I have got to connect with so many cool people and brands because of it. Anyone who has followed along, recommended new shirts, or just been here to support, I truly appreacite you. I am excited to try more T-shirts and I anticipate this spreadsheet continueing to grow.
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