How to: T-shirt under shirt
There are not many things in menswear I dislike so much as a t-shirt peeking behind the shirt. It is not nice, and these days you may solve it in so many different ways, yet I often encounter it. So I said to myself that I create an outfit which is – in my opinion – the only way how to wear it that way.
First, let me say that I understand that some people are not used to wearing a shirt on the naked body, fighting against sweat, or adding another layer for added warmth. However, this all could be achieved by wearing an invisible t-shirt that is comfortable to wear, with a v-neck that makes it hard to spot and is very sweat absorbent. In addition, some like to wear a vest which can also be a solution. However, in this case, you cannot or shouldn’t remove your jacket as most vests can be spotted underneath as well.
Yet, wearing a t-shirt underneath a shirt doesn’t have to be a no-go. So many sartorial enthusiasts, people who make a living by showing what they’re wearing to others, wear it too.
However, almost always with more unbuttoned buttons than one – which is the key (then it looks intentional and not just a mistake). Also, less formal shirts are great too, like flannel, brushed cotton or blend with cashmere.
I will find myself wearing this combination more often this winter too. It’s cosy, warm and comfortable. When a few buttons are undone, of course. According to one Italian sartorial specialist, there is even an Italian word for people wearing a t-shirt under a shirt, and primarily only children are forgiven.
Otherwise, trying to hide this base layer will bring more worries than not trying to hide it. So my advice is – greatly cut chinos, shirt with structure and jacket. Yes, tailored one as well. Or even suit - it doesn’t matter, just let a few buttons go.
See mine outfit - a simple white cotton t-shirt by Mr. P (brand by Mr Porter), black & white checked flannel shirt by Dunhill, white cotton chinos by Suitsupply and MTM grey flannel jacket by The Owners. I added a touch of colour with Pantherella socks and finished it with brown suede loafers by Massimo Dutti.
Actually, flannel shirts are great to combine with a t-shirt when unbuttoned - a friend of mine often wears it with a Barbour jacket most of the time, and it looks nicely done.Again, its structure makes it easy to combine.
In conclusion - I learned not always to dislike it when you "admit" you want to wear it that way. But peeking t-shirt from my V is something I don't feel comfortable with for a longer time than I can remember.
Yours Sincerely,
Denis
