Can you wear a T-shirt under a shirt without it showing
Short answer: Yes, you can, if you choose the right colour and neckline. A close fitting top with a V neck in a shade close to your skin tone is almost invisible under a light shirt, whereas a white crew neck T-shirt often shows through.
Colour matters most
Many people think a white T-shirt is invisible under a white shirt. It rarely is. White contrasts with the skin, so the outline of the sleeves and neckline shows clearly through a thin shirt fabric. An undershirt in a light grey or beige shade close to your skin tone, on the other hand, blends with the body and becomes almost invisible. Under dark shirts colour matters less, because the fabric is seldom see through.
The neckline
If you wear your shirt with the top button undone, a crew neck will often peek out. A V neck that is deep enough stays hidden under the open collar. If you wear a tie with the collar closed, a crew neck is perfectly fine. Think about how you usually wear your shirt before choosing an undershirt. See bamboo undershirt for men.
Fit and sleeves
A loose T-shirt creates folds under the shirt that show as bulges in the fabric. A close fitting undershirt lies smoothly against the body and disappears better. The sleeves should be short enough that they do not show through the shirt sleeves when you move your arms. Some people prefer sleeveless undershirts under shirts where sleeve edges would otherwise be visible.
Why wear anything underneath
An undershirt absorbs sweat before it reaches the shirt. That reduces sweat marks and means the shirt can be worn longer between washes. It also protects the shirt fabric from deodorant, which can leave yellow or white marks. In winter it adds a layer of warmth, and in summer a thin, light undershirt can make the shirt more comfortable to wear.
The material matters
Bamboo viscose is smooth, soft and absorbs moisture. That stops the undershirt clinging to the skin and helps it lie neatly under the shirt. A thin fabric is better than a thick one, because it does not show as a visible layer. Wash the undershirt often, as it takes up much of the sweat.
When you are not wearing a shirt
On a more relaxed day, a polo shirt can replace the shirt. An undershirt is rarely needed then, because the fabric is heavier. See bamboo polos for men. Under trousers, soft close fitting shorts give the same smooth line that an undershirt gives under a shirt. See bamboo inner shorts.
Care
Wash undershirts at 40 degrees, preferably inside out. Hang them to dry so they keep their shape. Avoid fabric softener, which can reduce the fabric's ability to absorb sweat.
Frequently asked questions
Which undershirt colour is least visible
A shade close to your skin tone, such as light grey or beige. White often shows through light shirts.
Should you choose a V neck or a crew neck
A V neck if you wear the shirt with an open collar. A crew neck is fine with a tie.
Does a shirt last longer with an undershirt
Yes, because the undershirt catches sweat and deodorant before they reach the shirt.
See our range of bamboo shirts for men.
