The Timeless Man’s Uniform
Tees are the not-so-secret key to dressing well year-round
It’s hardly a stretch to call a T-shirt the quintessential menswear item. After all, every guy has at least a couple of them laying around, and anyone who is lucky enough to have found the perfect fitting style will be more than willing to let you know a great tee is worth its weight in gold. You already know this tried-and-true look has been the go-to for some of the most stylish men of the past century—think James Dean, Steve McQueen, or more recently, guys like Ryan Gosling and Steven Yeun. Unmoored from trends and even seasonal cycles, the whole appeal of a quality tee is that it can and should be worn any time, any place.
When it comes to styling them nowadays, it's really more a question of what a tee can't do. The basic shirt is a perfect neutral—it allows you to pick and choose what part of your fit does the talking. Got some new sneakers you're ready to bust out for the viewing public? Pull on a solid tee and some casual shorts to really let them shine. Headed to that informally-formal summer wedding? Tuck a crisp white tee into a lightweight suit and let the compliments pour in. The timeless style is yours to customize; really, the only rule is one of fit. Wear it oversized or form-fitting, dressed up or just ready to hang, however you like. That's the magic of a tee. No matter how you wear it, it's going to look good. Browse our selections of the best basics below.
The Best Basic Tees in 2021
Crew neck short-sleeve T-shirt,
$14.90 by UNIQLO
Short-sleeve pocket T-shirt,
$10.99 by Comfort Colors
Standard T-shirt,
$48 by Alex Mill
Classic cotton T-shirt,
$90 by Sunspel
Broken-in short-sleeve pocket T-shirt,
$34.50 by J.Crew
Authentic short-sleeve T-shirt,
$12 / $8 by Hanes
Lightweight jersey T-shirt,
$55 by Reigning Champ
Cut, sewn and knit in Los Angeles
the old fashioned way with no side seams
Canoe Club T-shirt,
$55 by Lady White Co.
1950s sportswear T-shirt,
$88 by Levi's Vintage Clothing
Slub classic T-shirt,
$35 by Buck Mason
Cotton-cashmere crew T-shirt,
$198 by John Elliot
Cotton-pique T-shirt,
$295 by Fear Of God
Air crew T-shirt,
$24 by Everlane
Original T-shirt,
$50 by Jungmaven
Hemp T-shirt,
$36 / $26.98 by Wellen
Recycled cotton classic T-shirt,
$42 by Entireworld
Heavy Bag T-shirt,
$45 by Taylor Stitch
All in the ... shoulders?
Basic tees come in all shapes and sizes, and regardless of whether you’re aiming for a trim, tucked in look or for a relaxed, effortless appearance, it’s critical that your top actually fits. For a fast and loose answer, check out where your shoulders sit. If they’re swallowed by the shape of the tee, it’s probably too big. Likewise, if your delts are practically visible, ditch the too-small-tee and size up.
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