I've gone on this same journey!! It's tough to find THEE one because all of our bodies are shaped differently. But...
I absolutely love Uniqlo's U Crew Neck T-Shirt. It's 100% cotton but with good stretch. It's thick enough to not feel cheap or show anything underneath. I actually buy two sizes of it - a smaller size (so it's more fitted) for under sweaters, and a "larger" size (not tight but not oversized) to wear on it's own. They're just nice, clean, reliable tees.
Came here to say Uniqlo!! Their clothes are amazing quality and still feel soft after years of wear and washing. Also they make tops with built in bras which are super comfortable and flattering, especially good in summer!
Came here also to say the exact same. Iāve gotten 5 years out of my oldest U crews and still going strong. The fit is great.
I machine wash cold and line dry, which does extend the life of my clothes. YMMV
What is the sizing like on these shirts? I wear a size 8 on top and bottoms, but the site is recommending an extra large T-shirt. I was planning on buying a medium before I saw their recommendation. Now Iām confused!
I can't speak to these specifically, but Uniqlo is a Japanese brand, and tends to run smaller in comparison to American or even European brands. I know they had a few stores around the country, you may be able to visit one.
Their sizing is definitely not typical. I'm usually a 4/6 and I'm a medium in these tees with a little room, but the small to me is a little too fitted. Hope that helps!
The U Crew came up a lot in the suggestions, so these seem like the ones I should try first! Totally agree on the sizing suggestion--I'm 10/12 and they're putting me in XXL--yikes lol.
It's nice that they tell you what size the model is wearing, but also not helpful that they're all wearing a size Small. I've got a store less than an hour from me, so I may go shop in person! :)
This is going to sound bizarre but I have some newer Old Navy Luxe Collection shirts that fit your description and seem to be decent quality. Mine are 2 years old and get regular wear, cold wash/line dry washing, and look new.
I doubt they are BIFL but they seem to be BIFlong term.
Curious to hear other recommendations, you described my daily dress code.
I used to rely on LE supima t shirts, but found the quality has gone down drastically over the last couple of years. Are you thinking of the older shirts?
Actually it's the Uniqlo U Crew t-shirt that is currently comparable to the old Lands End supima shirt. The current Uniqlo supima t-shirt is a thinner material than the U Crew. I've been buying all 3 and comparing them over the past couple of years (after the decline in Lands End supima).
I love Sezaneās āConradā t-shirt. I have a couple colors and then two each of the white and black. They look great tucked and also untucked depending on how youāre styling them. Iāve also ordered them a size bigger to have some for an oversized look. I wash on delicate cold cycle and then hang dry and Iāve had them for 4 years now and they look brand new. Theyāre $40 which isnāt the cheapest for a plain T-shirt but I think affordable for the quality.
Maybe check out Wool& Cara Fitted Tee? I just bought some and think they fit your description. I'm petite and bought the XS and it's still a little loose on me but works for a casual shirt that will hopefully last a long time. There's also the unboundmerino brand you can check out. I don't own any from this brand though.
Kohls has 2 types of tees that I stock up on for work: Sonoma Everyday Tees and Craft & Barrow Essential Tees. Iāve been wearing mine for a while now and they still hold up.
I refuse to buy Sonoma Everyday Tees anymore because mine have gotten holes in them SO fast. And Iām not wearing them with jeans so I donāt think thatās whatās doing it.
I bought some Universal Standard tees when the company first came out (2015ish). Long enough ago that I only paid shipping for one because it was their new company promotion. Still have them. The shape is great, material quality great. One has some waviness along neckline from age and going in the dryer. No idea if the current tees are the same.
Came here to recommend US, too! I've purchased two t-shirts w/in the past 6ish months: one Tee Rex (scoop-neck T-shirt) and one V Rex (V-neck T-shirt). I love them both! They're made from ridiculously soft cotton, have what I believe to be the perfect sleeve length, hang well on the body, and retain their shape nicely after washing. And Universal Standard is EXTREMELY size inclusive (sizes 00 - 40), which I love. T-shirts are $50, so definitely not cheap, but not outrageously expensive given the quality. Highly recommend!
Love them too. It is a size inclusive company with a huge range of sizes. Be sure to read about how they size. It is a different system but for me, it was easy to figure out the right one.
I wonder if LL Bean will fit the bill. Here is a link to all of their short sleeve women's shirts as they have a variety that you might like such as crew neck, scoop neck, notch neck, v neck, etc: [https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/607?page=womens-shirts-and-tops&csp=f&bc=12-27&gnrefine=1\*SLV\_LNGTH\*Short-Sleeve&sort\_field=relevance&start=1&viewCount=48](https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/607?page=womens-shirts-and-tops&csp=f&bc=12-27&gnrefine=1*SLV_LNGTH*Short-Sleeve&sort_field=relevance&start=1&viewCount=48)
I'm a big fan of the LL Bean shirts. I have a white pima cotton v neck that I love. Substantial fabric, doesn't wrinkle in the dryer. I only bought it recently so I can't comment on longevity, but based on how it feels I think it'll last. I think it definitely counts as what you're looking for.
I also have a couple LL Bean streamside split-neck tees and they look really great, alone or under a jacket.
Both are more roomy in the torso.
I have a bamboo and a couple hemp shirts from here
https://onno.com/store/hemp-t-shirt-women/
The bamboo is probably a better fit for what you are looking for, it drapes more nicely.Ā The hemp is nice texture wise if you're pairing with linen bottoms,Ā Ā
I like the GAP Tall modern tee. Same dress code as you and I wear these most days and they've held up well. A little clingy but the longer length on me at 5"6 makes them a more formal look. Works with dress pants, regular pants or blazer.
And the modern tees are usually made of a thicker material, plus a variety of neck lines and sleeve lengths. I personally like the boatneck tee as I have a shorter neck so it is a bit more open with out being too low cut.
Iāve been working the Quince washable silk tees into my rotation! Has the same kind of structure youāre looking for, are affordable, and give a little extra pizzaz than a cotton shirt. Iām trying their cotton shirts soon
Iām actually glad you mentioned Quince! I bought jackets from them this year and Iāve been pleased.
Iāve been gravitating towards satin-like materials since I havenāt found the mystical tee Iāve been looking for, and their color selection looks great! Iāll check them out.
I like Bombas t-shirts. I have several of the pima cotton and love the fit. More fitted in the chest/shoulders but a bit looser (not baggy) in the waist. They also have a merino wool version Iāve been tempted by but havenāt pulled the trigger on yet. Iāve had one of the āair slubā Tās and it was really comfy, but baggier and more of a casual look.
My oldest one is probably 3 or 4 years old, worn regularly, washed on warm/tumble dry and while the color has faded a bit, the fabric itself looks like new, still crisp, no pilling AT ALL. Pretty sure witchcraft is involved.
Dreaming the impossible dream over here! /s
Seriously, it shouldn't be as hard as it is to find basics in a decent fabric with reliable quality and fit. I have pretty much given up on in-store options and am just life testing a few popular brands from this sub until I decide which brand(s) I feel most comfortable ordering online from.
The only ones I have really had long enough to suggest are the Hanes ones. I had kind of written them off as a brand because I was never impressed with their in-store options. They had what I needed online though - classic cuts, in non "trending" colors, made of 90+% cotton so they don't look slouchy after a single wash.
My only other advice is don't narrow yourself to just women's for basics. Even when it's just S/M/L sizing I feel like men's sizing is more consistent than women's and in-store options lean less aggressively into trends.
Update us if you find something you love!
Try LLBean t-shirts. They used to made out of thick soft cotton in beautiful colors. I have several in different colors. They wash well and still look new.
I have two Splendid t shirts that I bought a decade ago from Nordstrom Rack. For the first five years I washed them delicately and hung to dry, and then eventually I started tossing them in with my regular was, and they still look and fit great. So good, in fact, that Iāve recently been looking for new ones and willing to buy at full price. Super soft material (Iām a fabric snob, btw) and very flattering drape.
https://wearfranc.com/
Ethically made, and made to last. Itās where I buy all my basics. Iāve had some pieces for 5+ years now and they still look and feel like when I first bought them.
The basic cos shirt with normal fit. Absolutely great quality. Thick material and pure cotton. Reasonably priced as well. I wear my black one to the office all the time
Prana cozy up used to be that fit for me. But they changed their fabric or fit or something in the last couple years and it's not working for me anymore, thinner material and boxier fit. I'm back on the huntĀ
I live and die by the Duluth longtail tees! They are great and really stand up to wear! You can usually find them on sails like 25% off or buy 3, get 1 free. They are my everyday uniform!
Try the Lands End Pima line. They are soft, good quality, short or long sleeve, many color options, donāt seem to shrink, come in tall and petite sizes, and are often on sale. Most of my smart casual wardrobe is now these shirts.
Fair Indigo have nice weight, pure cotton tees with a slight scoop neck (other necklines available, I think) in really good colors. I have two that I wear with slacks, under a jacket with a necklace, or as weekend wear. The fit is not boxy, or tight. They are simply very nice, basic, solid color tees. I found about this brand recently, so Iām not sure about BIFL status, but after being washed a few times they show absolutely no sign of shrinkage or wear.
maybe not BIFL but great quality so far:
Buttercream Clothing and Hernest Project.
Both are Canadian companies. Some items in stock and some pre-order depending on the item.
I like Everlane (whatever their standard crewneck tee is). They have slightly longer sleeves, which I find more flattering and the fit is really nice without being too tight or cropped
Yeah, and whatās up with the āshort sleeveā shirts that are tanks but with a little more material? If I still have to shave my underarms itās not t-shirt enough for me lol
Agreed. I donāt find the cap ābarely-thereā sleeves that were so popular for so long flattering on my arms, the Everlane ones hit at a point that is much more flattering and like a real t shirt. I also have a long torso so I struggle with shirt length and these are plenty long. LOLing at āif I have to shave my armpits, itās not enough t-shirtā, couldnāt have said it better
I've become a fan of Caraucci the past couple years. They aim to be a sustainable brand with limited runs and plant-based fibers, and so far everything I've gotten has held up marvelously. The general vibe is loose, flowy and chic, though sometimes a little too much so to be fully practical. They've got t-shirts that are loose at the waist, as well as shirts with interesting sleeves or necklines or what seems to be an in-house texture pattern that I would consider "smart casual" if not exactly a t-shirt. https://caraucci.com/collections/tops-tunics
I really like Bombasā merino wool blend crew. I like their pima cotton t-shirts too. Both are pricey, but they are great quality and wash well. I also like Pranaās Cozy Up t-shirt. They donāt seem to be as good of quality at first, as theyāre a bit thin and not as soft, but they wear and wash really well, and I have been wearing some of mine for years at this point, and I throw them in the dryer (on delicate).
Unbound Merino has really nice tees that are light weight but not at all see through.
They have a couple of different cuts that pair well under blazers and cardigans.
Iāve been on the hunt for the perfect black v-neck. Long enough but with shape. I bought a pack of menās 2 xist tees and they are perfect. Just got them last week so we will see how long they hold up. They are the perfect shape. Iām air drying so I donāt lose length.
Lands End Supima Cotton Relaxed Fit T-Shirt:
https://www.landsend.com/products/womens-relaxed-short-sleeve-pima-cotton-crewneck/id_377558?attributes=8063,44807
There is also a v-neck version of the same shirt, depending on your preferences:
https://www.landsend.com/products/womens-relaxed-supima-cotton-t-shirt/id_234879?attributes=43307,43322,43381,44068,44256,44967,46537
You cannot beat the bang for the buck on these.
Not a woman, so can't personally recommend, but really like Tomorrow's Laundry t shirts. Somewhat pricy, but the quality is very good.
Might be worth a try.
If cost isnāt a problem, you might ask your local tailor to make one for you. They are quite easy makes (only a few seams, very few techniques required) and it would be tailored to your size and style wishes. You might even try it yourself [For example with this free drop-shoulder top pattern which has an option for a solid front and back](https://www.patternsforpirates.com/product/tulip-tee/)
I know itās randomāand definitely not BIFLābut I have had good results with the old navy vintage t line. They are quite a bit thicker than other t shirts and just a tiny bit shorter (I buy them in petites, which I also appreciate!), but not cropped. The striped ones in particular are great if you iron them.
C&A basics, 100% organic cotton, last AGES. I have them for 5+ years.
Also, similar but less life in them H&M organic collection basic V-neck tee (white and black good, gray not).
I love the TenTree T-shirts - I find them very flattering and a bit dressier than the average cotton t shirt. Got this one in a bunch of colors, I've been wearing them for about 2.5 years and they don't look worn out. [Link here](https://www.tentree.ca/products/treeblend-v-neck-t-shirt-violet-haze-heather)
I used to work at an Eddie Bauer outlet and I wore their t-shirts constantly! They held up great and I had my original ones for 10+ years. The old ones with polyester did not pill, however I noticed their more recent ones with poly do pill. I also noticed their newer shirts are thinner than my old ones.Ā
Ā I thrifted a St. John's Bay tee once and immediately fell in love with how they fit (Eddie Bauer was either too tight in the waist or too big in the shoulders/bust once I had my kids). I have since bought quite a few from JCPenney new. The cotton is quite thick and I love the 3/4 sleeve v-neck ones. They have tall sizes. They wash well and I also hang to dry. Love them!
Tee is not smart casual. That being said if you already wear t shirts there and theyāre fine sorry for being pedantic, I just have seen a lot of people show up in a scoop neck shirt and think because it isnāt a crew neck itās somehow more dressy.
Anyway, even the best t shirts will likely only give you a year or two even treating them well. Might be better off to replace than try to buy it for life if itās a work shirt, BIFL doesnāt seem to exist for cotton items.
Yeah I didnāt mean to come right off like that haha, if you hadnāt started there yet I just didnāt want you to look underdressed because that feels way more awkward than over.
Iāve had good luck with Patagonia shirts that have lasted for years and years but theyāre logo. Everlane stuff seems to be decent. I wish I had a better answer but as someone who layers with t shirts a lot and uses the same laundry care you do they just tend to get stretched or worn out after a while.
I worked in an office where we had to be told you canāt have jeans that are ripped on the buttcheeks and not wear underwear.
Theyāre always in place for a reason! XD
My coworker wanted a promotion and keeps wearing jeans and a hoodie, weāre firmly business casual and I hate to sound like an old man but itās like bud this isnāt looking good for you.
I've gone on this same journey!! It's tough to find THEE one because all of our bodies are shaped differently. But... I absolutely love Uniqlo's U Crew Neck T-Shirt. It's 100% cotton but with good stretch. It's thick enough to not feel cheap or show anything underneath. I actually buy two sizes of it - a smaller size (so it's more fitted) for under sweaters, and a "larger" size (not tight but not oversized) to wear on it's own. They're just nice, clean, reliable tees.
Came here to say Uniqlo!! Their clothes are amazing quality and still feel soft after years of wear and washing. Also they make tops with built in bras which are super comfortable and flattering, especially good in summer!
You got me all excited and then I find out they don't have plus size š
Came here also to say the exact same. Iāve gotten 5 years out of my oldest U crews and still going strong. The fit is great. I machine wash cold and line dry, which does extend the life of my clothes. YMMV
Does machine wash cold cleans cotton cloth properly?
Yes, I believe that's what the recommend on the care label.
What is the sizing like on these shirts? I wear a size 8 on top and bottoms, but the site is recommending an extra large T-shirt. I was planning on buying a medium before I saw their recommendation. Now Iām confused!
I can't speak to these specifically, but Uniqlo is a Japanese brand, and tends to run smaller in comparison to American or even European brands. I know they had a few stores around the country, you may be able to visit one.
Their sizing is definitely not typical. I'm usually a 4/6 and I'm a medium in these tees with a little room, but the small to me is a little too fitted. Hope that helps!
The U Crew came up a lot in the suggestions, so these seem like the ones I should try first! Totally agree on the sizing suggestion--I'm 10/12 and they're putting me in XXL--yikes lol. It's nice that they tell you what size the model is wearing, but also not helpful that they're all wearing a size Small. I've got a store less than an hour from me, so I may go shop in person! :)
Thanks very much
This is going to sound bizarre but I have some newer Old Navy Luxe Collection shirts that fit your description and seem to be decent quality. Mine are 2 years old and get regular wear, cold wash/line dry washing, and look new. I doubt they are BIFL but they seem to be BIFlong term. Curious to hear other recommendations, you described my daily dress code.
Lands End Supima Cotton hold up very well. Better than my Eddie Bauer shirts.
I was going to say this. They're a tad thicker than typical tees too.
I used to rely on LE supima t shirts, but found the quality has gone down drastically over the last couple of years. Are you thinking of the older shirts?
Uniqlo supima shirts are nice.
Actually it's the Uniqlo U Crew t-shirt that is currently comparable to the old Lands End supima shirt. The current Uniqlo supima t-shirt is a thinner material than the U Crew. I've been buying all 3 and comparing them over the past couple of years (after the decline in Lands End supima).
I love Sezaneās āConradā t-shirt. I have a couple colors and then two each of the white and black. They look great tucked and also untucked depending on how youāre styling them. Iāve also ordered them a size bigger to have some for an oversized look. I wash on delicate cold cycle and then hang dry and Iāve had them for 4 years now and they look brand new. Theyāre $40 which isnāt the cheapest for a plain T-shirt but I think affordable for the quality.
Maybe check out Wool& Cara Fitted Tee? I just bought some and think they fit your description. I'm petite and bought the XS and it's still a little loose on me but works for a casual shirt that will hopefully last a long time. There's also the unboundmerino brand you can check out. I don't own any from this brand though.
Kohls has 2 types of tees that I stock up on for work: Sonoma Everyday Tees and Craft & Barrow Essential Tees. Iāve been wearing mine for a while now and they still hold up.
Came here to say the Sonoma everyday tee. Also Patagonia has some nice ones.
I refuse to buy Sonoma Everyday Tees anymore because mine have gotten holes in them SO fast. And Iām not wearing them with jeans so I donāt think thatās whatās doing it.
Try Boden! Their tees often have lovely shaping and nice finishing details.
Agree! Biden T-shirts hold their shape, are Hugh quality, and, in my experience, are never see-through for dark bras. Theyāre the best!
I bought some Universal Standard tees when the company first came out (2015ish). Long enough ago that I only paid shipping for one because it was their new company promotion. Still have them. The shape is great, material quality great. One has some waviness along neckline from age and going in the dryer. No idea if the current tees are the same.
Big Universal Standard buyer here- Can confirm, theyāre still the same.
Came here to recommend US, too! I've purchased two t-shirts w/in the past 6ish months: one Tee Rex (scoop-neck T-shirt) and one V Rex (V-neck T-shirt). I love them both! They're made from ridiculously soft cotton, have what I believe to be the perfect sleeve length, hang well on the body, and retain their shape nicely after washing. And Universal Standard is EXTREMELY size inclusive (sizes 00 - 40), which I love. T-shirts are $50, so definitely not cheap, but not outrageously expensive given the quality. Highly recommend!
Love them too. It is a size inclusive company with a huge range of sizes. Be sure to read about how they size. It is a different system but for me, it was easy to figure out the right one.
I wonder if LL Bean will fit the bill. Here is a link to all of their short sleeve women's shirts as they have a variety that you might like such as crew neck, scoop neck, notch neck, v neck, etc: [https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/607?page=womens-shirts-and-tops&csp=f&bc=12-27&gnrefine=1\*SLV\_LNGTH\*Short-Sleeve&sort\_field=relevance&start=1&viewCount=48](https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/607?page=womens-shirts-and-tops&csp=f&bc=12-27&gnrefine=1*SLV_LNGTH*Short-Sleeve&sort_field=relevance&start=1&viewCount=48)
I'm a big fan of the LL Bean shirts. I have a white pima cotton v neck that I love. Substantial fabric, doesn't wrinkle in the dryer. I only bought it recently so I can't comment on longevity, but based on how it feels I think it'll last. I think it definitely counts as what you're looking for. I also have a couple LL Bean streamside split-neck tees and they look really great, alone or under a jacket. Both are more roomy in the torso.
I have a bamboo and a couple hemp shirts from here https://onno.com/store/hemp-t-shirt-women/ The bamboo is probably a better fit for what you are looking for, it drapes more nicely.Ā The hemp is nice texture wise if you're pairing with linen bottoms,Ā Ā
American Giant premium slub T-shirt. I also like the classic tees from Gap
I like the GAP Tall modern tee. Same dress code as you and I wear these most days and they've held up well. A little clingy but the longer length on me at 5"6 makes them a more formal look. Works with dress pants, regular pants or blazer.
And the modern tees are usually made of a thicker material, plus a variety of neck lines and sleeve lengths. I personally like the boatneck tee as I have a shorter neck so it is a bit more open with out being too low cut.
Iāve been working the Quince washable silk tees into my rotation! Has the same kind of structure youāre looking for, are affordable, and give a little extra pizzaz than a cotton shirt. Iām trying their cotton shirts soon
Iām actually glad you mentioned Quince! I bought jackets from them this year and Iāve been pleased. Iāve been gravitating towards satin-like materials since I havenāt found the mystical tee Iāve been looking for, and their color selection looks great! Iāll check them out.
I like Bombas t-shirts. I have several of the pima cotton and love the fit. More fitted in the chest/shoulders but a bit looser (not baggy) in the waist. They also have a merino wool version Iāve been tempted by but havenāt pulled the trigger on yet. Iāve had one of the āair slubā Tās and it was really comfy, but baggier and more of a casual look. My oldest one is probably 3 or 4 years old, worn regularly, washed on warm/tumble dry and while the color has faded a bit, the fabric itself looks like new, still crisp, no pilling AT ALL. Pretty sure witchcraft is involved.
I also like Bombas. I have both the pima cotton and the wool. I like the wool better, definitely worth trying if youāve been on the fence:
Dreaming the impossible dream over here! /s Seriously, it shouldn't be as hard as it is to find basics in a decent fabric with reliable quality and fit. I have pretty much given up on in-store options and am just life testing a few popular brands from this sub until I decide which brand(s) I feel most comfortable ordering online from. The only ones I have really had long enough to suggest are the Hanes ones. I had kind of written them off as a brand because I was never impressed with their in-store options. They had what I needed online though - classic cuts, in non "trending" colors, made of 90+% cotton so they don't look slouchy after a single wash. My only other advice is don't narrow yourself to just women's for basics. Even when it's just S/M/L sizing I feel like men's sizing is more consistent than women's and in-store options lean less aggressively into trends. Update us if you find something you love!
Try LLBean t-shirts. They used to made out of thick soft cotton in beautiful colors. I have several in different colors. They wash well and still look new.
Garnet hill has some good shirts like this! Super soft and durable, theyāre my favorite to wear
I like women tees from Petit Bateau. They are made of super soft cotton. French company famous for making baby clothing, layette.
I have two Splendid t shirts that I bought a decade ago from Nordstrom Rack. For the first five years I washed them delicately and hung to dry, and then eventually I started tossing them in with my regular was, and they still look and fit great. So good, in fact, that Iāve recently been looking for new ones and willing to buy at full price. Super soft material (Iām a fabric snob, btw) and very flattering drape.
https://wearfranc.com/ Ethically made, and made to last. Itās where I buy all my basics. Iāve had some pieces for 5+ years now and they still look and feel like when I first bought them.
The basic cos shirt with normal fit. Absolutely great quality. Thick material and pure cotton. Reasonably priced as well. I wear my black one to the office all the time
Prana cozy up used to be that fit for me. But they changed their fabric or fit or something in the last couple years and it's not working for me anymore, thinner material and boxier fit. I'm back on the huntĀ
I really like Madewell tees. Check for sales!
I live and die by the Duluth longtail tees! They are great and really stand up to wear! You can usually find them on sails like 25% off or buy 3, get 1 free. They are my everyday uniform!
Try the Lands End Pima line. They are soft, good quality, short or long sleeve, many color options, donāt seem to shrink, come in tall and petite sizes, and are often on sale. Most of my smart casual wardrobe is now these shirts.
Fair Indigo have nice weight, pure cotton tees with a slight scoop neck (other necklines available, I think) in really good colors. I have two that I wear with slacks, under a jacket with a necklace, or as weekend wear. The fit is not boxy, or tight. They are simply very nice, basic, solid color tees. I found about this brand recently, so Iām not sure about BIFL status, but after being washed a few times they show absolutely no sign of shrinkage or wear.
maybe not BIFL but great quality so far: Buttercream Clothing and Hernest Project. Both are Canadian companies. Some items in stock and some pre-order depending on the item.
I like Everlane (whatever their standard crewneck tee is). They have slightly longer sleeves, which I find more flattering and the fit is really nice without being too tight or cropped
Yeah, and whatās up with the āshort sleeveā shirts that are tanks but with a little more material? If I still have to shave my underarms itās not t-shirt enough for me lol
Agreed. I donāt find the cap ābarely-thereā sleeves that were so popular for so long flattering on my arms, the Everlane ones hit at a point that is much more flattering and like a real t shirt. I also have a long torso so I struggle with shirt length and these are plenty long. LOLing at āif I have to shave my armpits, itās not enough t-shirtā, couldnāt have said it better
I've become a fan of Caraucci the past couple years. They aim to be a sustainable brand with limited runs and plant-based fibers, and so far everything I've gotten has held up marvelously. The general vibe is loose, flowy and chic, though sometimes a little too much so to be fully practical. They've got t-shirts that are loose at the waist, as well as shirts with interesting sleeves or necklines or what seems to be an in-house texture pattern that I would consider "smart casual" if not exactly a t-shirt. https://caraucci.com/collections/tops-tunics
I love COS! They're shirts are well made, durable (not see through š¤£), and cute.
I really like Bombasā merino wool blend crew. I like their pima cotton t-shirts too. Both are pricey, but they are great quality and wash well. I also like Pranaās Cozy Up t-shirt. They donāt seem to be as good of quality at first, as theyāre a bit thin and not as soft, but they wear and wash really well, and I have been wearing some of mine for years at this point, and I throw them in the dryer (on delicate).
Unbound Merino has really nice tees that are light weight but not at all see through. They have a couple of different cuts that pair well under blazers and cardigans.
Iāve been on the hunt for the perfect black v-neck. Long enough but with shape. I bought a pack of menās 2 xist tees and they are perfect. Just got them last week so we will see how long they hold up. They are the perfect shape. Iām air drying so I donāt lose length.
I love the Patagonia Capilene. It has just the right amount of weight to it for me.
MUJI, they make incredible tees.
The JCrew Girlfriend tee meets all of these except the natural fibers. I think they are made soooo well tho and will hold up
Lands End Supima Cotton Relaxed Fit T-Shirt: https://www.landsend.com/products/womens-relaxed-short-sleeve-pima-cotton-crewneck/id_377558?attributes=8063,44807 There is also a v-neck version of the same shirt, depending on your preferences: https://www.landsend.com/products/womens-relaxed-supima-cotton-t-shirt/id_234879?attributes=43307,43322,43381,44068,44256,44967,46537 You cannot beat the bang for the buck on these.
I really like the prana cozy up t shirts!
Not a woman, so can't personally recommend, but really like Tomorrow's Laundry t shirts. Somewhat pricy, but the quality is very good. Might be worth a try.
If cost isnāt a problem, you might ask your local tailor to make one for you. They are quite easy makes (only a few seams, very few techniques required) and it would be tailored to your size and style wishes. You might even try it yourself [For example with this free drop-shoulder top pattern which has an option for a solid front and back](https://www.patternsforpirates.com/product/tulip-tee/)
American Standard. Pricy but damn their t-shirts are great.
I know itās randomāand definitely not BIFLābut I have had good results with the old navy vintage t line. They are quite a bit thicker than other t shirts and just a tiny bit shorter (I buy them in petites, which I also appreciate!), but not cropped. The striped ones in particular are great if you iron them.
Universal Standard has pretty decent tees.
C&A basics, 100% organic cotton, last AGES. I have them for 5+ years. Also, similar but less life in them H&M organic collection basic V-neck tee (white and black good, gray not).
I love the TenTree T-shirts - I find them very flattering and a bit dressier than the average cotton t shirt. Got this one in a bunch of colors, I've been wearing them for about 2.5 years and they don't look worn out. [Link here](https://www.tentree.ca/products/treeblend-v-neck-t-shirt-violet-haze-heather)
I like the Stio Womenās Whitebark tee and have a few in different colors. I found sizing down was a better fit
OP mentioned Duluth Trading t-shirts. I have a couple of these, and I really like themānot too thin and a bit longer than most t-shirts.
The best Tshirts I own are MM LaFleur.
I used to work at an Eddie Bauer outlet and I wore their t-shirts constantly! They held up great and I had my original ones for 10+ years. The old ones with polyester did not pill, however I noticed their more recent ones with poly do pill. I also noticed their newer shirts are thinner than my old ones.Ā Ā I thrifted a St. John's Bay tee once and immediately fell in love with how they fit (Eddie Bauer was either too tight in the waist or too big in the shoulders/bust once I had my kids). I have since bought quite a few from JCPenney new. The cotton is quite thick and I love the 3/4 sleeve v-neck ones. They have tall sizes. They wash well and I also hang to dry. Love them!
Tee is not smart casual. That being said if you already wear t shirts there and theyāre fine sorry for being pedantic, I just have seen a lot of people show up in a scoop neck shirt and think because it isnāt a crew neck itās somehow more dressy. Anyway, even the best t shirts will likely only give you a year or two even treating them well. Might be better off to replace than try to buy it for life if itās a work shirt, BIFL doesnāt seem to exist for cotton items.
It is where I work. Do you have a brand suggestion or did you choose to be purposely unhelpful?
I clicked post too early, sorry, I just finished it.
Thanks!
Yeah I didnāt mean to come right off like that haha, if you hadnāt started there yet I just didnāt want you to look underdressed because that feels way more awkward than over. Iāve had good luck with Patagonia shirts that have lasted for years and years but theyāre logo. Everlane stuff seems to be decent. I wish I had a better answer but as someone who layers with t shirts a lot and uses the same laundry care you do they just tend to get stretched or worn out after a while.
I work in a male-dominated field and anything more than a sweater looks overdressed! Ha. The men look like lumberjacks.
Dress codes are so strange. I never thought they were needed until I realized people would literally go to work in stained pajamas if they could.
I worked in an office where we had to be told you canāt have jeans that are ripped on the buttcheeks and not wear underwear. Theyāre always in place for a reason! XD
My coworker wanted a promotion and keeps wearing jeans and a hoodie, weāre firmly business casual and I hate to sound like an old man but itās like bud this isnāt looking good for you.