Fashion is always evolving – what is prominent this year might lose its’ luster the next. One article of clothing that has never gone out of style is the men’s undershirt. This fashion staple was originally created to prevent your outer wear from drawing sweat and odor, yet the undershirt has become a fashion statement within itself. If it has never been more than an afterthought in your dresser drawer then take notes on how these garments provide great functionality and the opportunity to style yourself with a classic clean look.
The Tank Top a/k/a “Wife Beater”
Undershirts come in varying styles with the tank top being one of the more popular selections almost reaching an iconic status. The tank top, also known as a “wife beater,” is a form fitting, low-cut top with shoulder straps. This piece is often sported independently during warmer seasons, but its’ main function is to keep the underlying body from showing and making dress shirts less transparent which is key with any formal or business casual outfit.
Crew Neck
Up next is the crew neck, short sleeve shirt. It offers you more depth than the tank top as you can dress this up with a dark colored blazer or cardigan sweater. Although white is the staple color frequently associated with this fashion essential, celebrities like Simon Cowell and R&B superstar Usher prove that darker tones are equally fashionable. If you’re going with an unbuttoned dress shirt, your undershirt should match it to avoid any clashing.
V-Neck, Scoop and Henley
Other variations include the v-neck cut, a wider scoop neck cut and the button closure anchored Henley. The v-neck and scoop necks feature plunging necklines that vary in size so it is prudent to choose a cut that compliments the frame of your chest and shoulders. The Henley is traditionally a long sleeve shirt making it ideal for layering in the fall and winter seasons.
Undershirt Purchasing
Most undershirts are made of knitted cotton to provide a lightweight feel that is soft to the touch and will not make layers appear bulky. Silk weight cotton and wool blends are preferred for colder weather. Other materials are also available to accommodate different settings. For an active lifestyle you can’t go wrong with a polyester mesh blend. This fabric is sweat absorbent and allows your body to breathe during strenuous activity or high intensity exercise.
When making an undershirt purchase, quality should be your initial consideration. There are more than several no-frills substitutes available at lower prices but as with any category of shopping – you get what you pay for. We suggest sticking with reputable brands such as Hanes, Fruit of the Loom and American Apparel who are synonymous with men’s under garments. Simply follow the care instructions and avoid any excessive stretching of the neckline to keep your undershirts in fighting shape.
Undershirt Maintenance – Yellow is not Mellow
We’re sure you are one of the millions of men who have experienced yellow armpit stains on your undershirts. The reaction between anti-perspirant ingredients and the salts in your sweat is the cause. Most anti-perspirants contain aluminum which reduces wetness. The same chemical that keeps you dry also build’s-up and causes yellowing on fabrics. So how do you prevent this or at least prolong the outset to get more shelf life out of your tees?
Switch to an aluminum-free deodorant, such as Adidas Deodorant for men. Plus, read the labels and you’ll find that anti-perspirants have varying levels of aluminum compounds. Choose a brand with the lowest aluminum content that provides the protection you need. In addition, not unlike cologne, after you apply your smell fresh formula let it dry before dressing so it won’t smear on to your undershirt.
Bottom lime, the undershirt should be embraced and not overlooked as it can provide function, comfort and style – a trifecta if you ask us.