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Today, we’re diving into the art of wearing an undershirt beneath your dress shirt. Seems straightforward, right? Well, there’s more to it than you might think. You may ask yourself, “Why bother with an extra layer, especially when sweltering outside?” And you’re not alone—especially among the younger guys who’ve ditched the corporate world’s old-school dress code for something more laid-back.
Whether you’re a 9-to-5er still clocking in at the office or a digital nomad bouncing between co-working spaces, knowing when and why to rock an undershirt can make all the difference. We’ll delve into why this seemingly outdated practice still holds water today and drop some knowledge you can use. Trust me, you’ll be singing a different tune about undershirts by the end of this. So, let’s get into it.
The Real Deal on Wearing Undershirts: Not Just An Extra Layer
So, wearing an undershirt is just an old-school gimmick? Let’s drop some facts and clear the fog. Here’s the deal: An undershirt isn’t just about stacking another layer under your dress shirt. Nope, there’s a science and art to it. By the end of this read, you’ll realize the game-changing benefits an undershirt can bring to your appearance and comfort.
Undershirts As Your Personal Sweat SWAT Team
First up: sweat management. Think of undershirts as your wardrobe’s offensive lineman—doing the dirty work while letting the quarterback (your dress shirt) shine. They absorb sweat, saving your dress shirt from those unfortunate sweat stains. But not just any undershirt will do—the high-quality ones wick moisture away from your body. It speeds up evaporation, keeping you cool and dry. In short, no Niagara Falls down your back or sweat lakes under your arms.
Bonus tip for the transitional seasons: A lightweight undershirt can stave off that early autumn or late spring chill, eliminating the need for extra outerwear.
Look Sharp, Seriously
It’s not just about function, fellas. An undershirt can amp up your look, too. Ever wonder why some white dress shirts seem to pop? Spoiler alert: It’s often an undershirt doing the heavy lifting. Its clean, white layer boosts the vibrancy of your dress shirt, making you look crisp and well-put-together.
And let’s not forget the other aesthetic perks: For those with a more ‘hirsute’ appearance, an undershirt can help keep things discreet. It can also keep your ink under wraps if you’re trying to make a more subdued impression during a job interview.
Avoid These Undershirt Faux Pas
Before you dash to stock up, let’s talk undershirt no-nos.
First, skip the spandex or compression shirts—affectionately known as “mirdles.” They’re not just uncomfortable; they can be downright dangerous. Overly tight compression can lead to health issues like blood clots. Instead, opt for a more natural fit and, for heaven’s sake, get your shirts tailored if you need to.
Second, if you’re wearing an open-collar dress shirt, make sure your undershirt is a V-neck. The goal is invisibility. A good undershirt is like a great referee: so effective you don’t even know it’s there.
Top Undershirt Picks for the Modern Man
FLINT AND TINDER UNDERSHIRT
You’ll forget you’re wearing it, soft as heck and made from all cotton.
MACK WELDON UNDERSHIRT
Balances stretch and form and master the sweat-wicking game.
MR.DAVIS UNDERSHIRT
Want an eco-friendly option that feels plush? Check out these bamboo fabric undershirts.
TOMMY JOHN
Known for its no-ride-up guarantee, Tommy John offers undershirts with a tailored fit and a stay-tucked design. They also have various fabric choices, including their ‘Cool Cotton’ for hot days.
TANI USA
If luxury is your game, TANI USA uses Micro Modal Air fabric, which is thinner and even softer than silk. It’s ideal for those wanting luxury beneath their dress shirt.
RIBBED TEE
For those who prefer a textured feel, Ribbed Tee offers just that without sacrificing comfort. Their options are usually 100% cotton and have that classic ribbed design that some guys swear by.
SAXX
They’ve taken the concept of the “ballpark pouch” from their underwear and implemented it into their undershirts. If you’re after anatomical comfort, give SAXX a go.
UNIQLO AIRISM
Affordable and effective at wicking sweat—these are a no-brainer.
The Last Word: Start With The Base
You might’ve thought undershirts were an afterthought, but hopefully, this deep dive has converted you. They’re the unsung heroes in the well-dressed man’s closet—working hard to keep you looking and feeling top-notch. If you want to master style, remember: It starts at the base layer. Get it right there, and the rest falls into place.
What Are Some Excellent Brands Of Undershirts To Try?
Sure thing, here are some tried-and-true brands that consistently deliver quality regarding undershirts. Each one has its own set of unique features that cater to different needs:
UNIQLO AIRISM
If you’re after high-tech functionality without breaking the bank, UNIQLO’s AIRISM line is a top contender. It’s got excellent wicking capabilities and breathability, making it an all-around solid choice.
FLINT AND TINDER by Huckberry
This brand offers 100% cotton undershirts that stand out for their softness and durability. It’s a premium but worthwhile investment if you’re into natural fibers.
MACK WELDON
With a blend of soft, breathable fabrics and a dash of spandex for stretch, Mack Weldon hits the mark for both comfort and functionality. Their undershirts wick sweat effectively and maintain their shape well.
MR. DAVIS
If you’re eyeing an eco-friendly option, look no further. Mr. Davis uses bamboo fabric, offering a super-soft feel while being kind to the planet.
TOMMY JOHN
Known for its no-ride-up guarantee, Tommy John offers undershirts with a tailored fit and a stay-tucked design. They also have various fabric choices, including their ‘Cool Cotton’ for hot days.
TANI USA
If luxury is your game, TANI USA uses Micro Modal Air fabric, which is thinner and even softer than silk. It’s ideal for those wanting luxury beneath their dress shirt.
RIBBED TEE
For those who prefer a textured feel, Ribbed Tee offers just that without sacrificing comfort. Their options are usually 100% cotton and have that classic ribbed design that some guys swear by.
SAXX
They’ve taken the concept of the “ballpark pouch” from their underwear and implemented it into their undershirts. If you’re after anatomical comfort, give SAXX a go.
Each brand brings something unique, so you should experiment with a couple to find your perfect fit. Happy shopping!
6 Simple Styles Of Undershirts To Wear With An Open-Collar Dress Shirt?
The style of undershirt you pick can make or break your open-collar look. Here’s what you need to know:
V-Neck Undershirts
This is your go-to style for an open-collar dress shirt. A V-neck sits lower on your chest and stays hidden, keeping the focus on your shirt and overall look rather than revealing an unsightly under-layer. No one should know you’re wearing an undershirt with an open collar, and a V-neck accomplishes just that.
Deep V-Neck Undershirts
Consider a deep V-neck undershirt if your open collar is plunging a little deeper than usual. These are designed to sit even lower on your chest, ensuring invisibility no matter how unbuttoned your dress shirt is.
Sleeveless (Tank Tops)
Some guys swear by this old-school style, especially in hotter climates. While a tank top won’t help you with sweat in the arm region, it’s a decent choice if you want to keep calm and are not worried about pit stains.
Light-Color Or Skin-Tone Undershirts
Choosing an undershirt in a light color or a shade close to your skin tone can ensure it remains unnoticeable. This is a smart move if your dress shirt is on the thinner side.
Thin, Breathable Fabrics
When wearing an open-collar dress shirt, you’ll also want to consider the thickness of your undershirt. Opt for thin, breathable fabrics like modals or blends, including moisture-wicking technology. This will help you maintain that incredible, effortless vibe.
The No-Show
Some brands offer “no-show” undershirts, designed with ultra-thin collars and hems to be as invisible as possible, even under a finely woven dress shirt.
What To Avoid:
- Crew Neck Undershirts: These are your basic, round-neck tees that will peek out of an open-collar shirt and can ruin the look you’re going for.
- Visible Logos or Patterns: Keep it simple. Any visible brand logos or patterns on your undershirt will distract from your overall look.
Remember, the goal is to keep your undershirt just that—an underlayer that serves its purpose without drawing attention to itself. Choose wisely!
10 Undershirt Faux Pas To Avoid This Season
Ah, the elusive art of undershirt etiquette—easy to overlook but critical if you want to be on your A-game. Let’s get into the undershirt faux pas you definitely want to steer clear of:
Wrong Neckline
As mentioned earlier, a crew neck undershirt will stick out like a sore thumb if you’re sporting an open-collar dress shirt. Always go for a V-neck or a deep V-neck to keep your under-layer under wraps.
Wearing White Under White
Believe it or not, a white undershirt can show through a white dress shirt, creating a distracting visual. Opt for a gray or skin-tone undershirt to blend in seamlessly.
Baggy Undershirts
Too loose undershirts can bunch up, creating unflattering lumps under your dress shirt. Stick to a snug fit that sits close to your skin.
Too Short
If your undershirt is longer, it’ll inevitably come untucked, and you’ll spend the whole day fussing with it. Make sure it’s long enough to stay tucked into your pants.
Visible Seams And Logos
Look for undershirts with flat or minimal seams and no visible logos. You want to avoid these details showing through your dress shirt and affecting its clean lines.
Worn-Out Or Stained
Undershirts have a shelf life. If they’re starting to discolor, fray, or develop holes, it’s time for them to retire. Make sure to compromise your look with an undershirt past its prime.
Overuse Of Compression Shirts
While they can slim your physique, compression shirts (or “mirdles” as we jokingly call them) can also be a health hazard if too tight, risking issues like blood clots. Use them sparingly and make sure they’re the right fit.
Mixing Fabric Types Poorly
The type of fabric in your undershirt should complement your dress shirt. For instance, a silk dress shirt and a cotton undershirt might play poorly together. The materials can catch on each other, causing your dress shirt to bunch up or move awkwardly.
The “Poor Man’s Ascot”
If you’re going casual with an open neck, don’t let a crew neck undershirt show as if it’s part of the look. This isn’t the ’90s sitcom era; that look has long sailed.
Ignoring The Weather
A moisture-wicking fabric can be your best friend in hot weather, but in colder climates, you might want an undershirt that provides more insulation. Dress for the season.
Avoid these undershirt missteps, and you’re already ahead of the game. Here’s to looking sharp, fellas.
Conclusion
The undershirt isn’t just a relic from your granddad’s closet; it’s a functional and stylistic asset. We’ve explained how the fitting undershirt can help manage sweat and elevate your look. We’ve also flagged a few pitfalls to avoid, like the notorious “mirdles” that can actually pose health risks. And remember the V-neck when you’re opting for that open-collar look. The bottom line? An undershirt can be a game-changer, making you look sharper and feel more comfortable, regardless of the season. So, next time you’re out shopping, don’t just pass by the undershirt section—pause it thoughtfully. Your wardrobe will thank you.
Feature Image from https://lookbook.nu/look/7697038-White-Blazer-Ripped-Jeans-Axelarigato-Pony-Hair
