A bra under a white t-shirt
Short answer: A skin toned bra disappears under white. A white bra shows clearly, because two white layers have different densities.
Why white does not work
Light passes through the thin t-shirt and hits a denser white layer. The contrast between the two whites makes the band, the straps and the cup seam visible. A tone close to the skin does the opposite.
What else to look for
A smooth, seamless cup shows less than one with seams. Wide straps show more clearly than narrow ones under thin fabric. See bamboo bras without underwire.
The alternative is one more layer
A skin toned top or a slip under the t-shirt removes the problem entirely, whatever bra you wear. See bamboo underwear for women and bamboo slips.
Frequently asked questions
What about a black bra under a white t-shirt
It shows most clearly of all. Under white, skin tone is the only choice that disappears.
Are seamless bras better under thin fabric
Yes, they show markedly less than styles with seams in the cup.
Does this apply to light grey t-shirts too
Yes. Anything light and thin behaves the same way.