How To Find The Perfect T-Shirt For Men
5 male body shapes. It’s worth noting that some men can run across 2 shapes.
The Not So Humble T-Shirt
Before the rise of smart casual, the T-shirt was often relegated to showcasing your favourite band, worn as underwear, for the gym, or just for lounging at home. Not anymore. Today, it’s a key wardrobe essential and a garment I’m frequently asked to style and source as a personal stylist.
A great T-shirt should work effortlessly on its own, under a blazer, with a full suit, layered beneath knitwear, or paired with an overshirt. Its versatility allows it to transition seamlessly from casual to refined, making it one of the most useful pieces in any wardrobe.
However, not all T-shirts are equal and or suit every body shape. The right cut and fit can enhance proportions, creating a balanced and flattering look. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect T-shirt.
Rectangle Shape
Men with a rectangular body shape typically have shoulders, waist, and hips of similar width, so the aim is to add structure to the upper body. If you have a slighter frame, European brands like Zara or Japanese labels such as Uniqlo can be a great fit, as they tend to cater to a narrower build. Conversely, British, Scandinavian, and American brands often work well for taller rectangles, offering longer proportions and a broader fit.
Sunspel, Uniqlo, Luca Faloni
Triangle Shape
The goal is to add structure to the upper body while maintaining comfort. Brands catering to men aged 40 and above often offer styles with a broader torso and narrower arms, creating a more balanced and flattering silhouette. These designs add structure to the chest and shoulders while ensuring a tailored fit that enhances proportions without sacrificing style.
Crew Clothing, M&S, Barbour
Trapezoid Shape
This is considered the "ideal" shape for most brands, meaning standard T-shirts will often fit well. Opt for a fitted T-shirt that follows the natural lines of the torso without being too tight.
Reiss, James Perse, Tommy Hilfiger
Oval Shape
For men with an oval body shape, the key is to create a structured silhouette. Look for heavier weight T-shirts that offer a slightly looser, straight cut, allowing the fabric to drape comfortably without clinging. Darker colours and textures can create the illusion of a leaner profile, helping to elongate the torso and smooth out any excess volume around the waist.
Gant, Moss Brothers, Ralph Lauren
Inverted Triangle Shape
For men with a muscular upper body and a tapered waist, achieving balance is crucial. The goal is to choose a T-shirt that follows the natural shape of the body without being too tight or too loose. A well-fitting style that gently hugs the waist without overwhelming it is ideal, as it enhances the V-shape while still allowing for comfort and movement.
Spoke, Colourful Standard, Hackett
Finding the perfect T-shirt is about understanding your shape and choosing styles that enhance your natural proportions. With the right fit, every man can look sharp, even in the most casual outfit.
Men’s Personal Shopping
If you would like help finding the perfect t-shirt - there are of course many other brands to choose from and many of these brands cater for more than one body-shape - or general style advice. Please do feel free to reach out by email or comment below.
Thank you for reading!
Lisa