How To Find The Perfect T-Shirt For Men
5 typical male body shapes - though many men run across 2 shapes.
The Importance of Identifying Your Body Shape to Find the Right 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 men’s 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 for your physique.
Rectangle body type
Men with a rectangular frame 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 body type
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 body type
This is considered the a core or regular 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 body type
For men with an oval body shape where weight sits at the mid-section, 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 bpdy type
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.
How I Can Support You
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 to learn more about personal styling for men in person and online.
Thank you for reading!
Lisa O’Shaughnessy
