In the vast world of fashion, the t-shirt has traveled a fascinating path, going from a simple piece of underwear to an essential piece of men's and women's wardrobes. Today, the t-shirt reigns supreme among the most popular items of clothing, often renewed without much thought. However, it is high time to recognize the crucial importance of this humble piece of cotton, whether you are a man or a woman. Investing in quality, durable and well-designed t-shirts is the key to impeccable style for everyone. When looking for the perfect t-shirt, it is essential to take into account several fundamental criteria: the composition of the fabric, the fineness of the finishes and, of course, the cut. In this article, we will reveal to you the secrets to finding the ideal t-shirt that will meet all these requirements, whatever your tastes and style.

 

History of the t-shirt

So, the t-shirt is a bit like a movie star whose origins we don't really know, but who has managed to find a place in the hearts of everyone, men and women alike, since beautiful lurette. We go back to the 19th century, where it squatted in the closets of modest American workers, often hidden under a shirt or overalls. Then, the t-shirt landed in the United States Navy in 1913, and it was mad love! With its round neck and short sleeves, it became the ultimate ally for absorbing sweat and surviving laundry. From there, the t-shirt gradually abandoned its military boots to conquer the general public. During the ^2nd World War, the US army did a little European-style propaganda by presenting it with the t-shirt, and the rest is history: it carved out a place for itself in our wardrobes, becoming an essential basic for everyone, men and women, from yesterday to today.

 

What is the best FABRIC for a T-shirt?

In the world of t-shirts, the majority of the time (unless there is an exceptional creative desire), the materials of choice are cotton, silk, merino wool and synthetic materials such as polyester and viscose. Typically, the classic t-shirt is made from 100% cotton, but the real distinction lies in the quality of the cotton used. However, it is interesting to note that on the market you can also find t-shirts that incorporate a low percentage of synthetic materials, especially polyester. The latter offers a different texture to the final fabric while increasing its durability. And, let’s face it, it’s more affordable! Although silk can sometimes make an appearance in the t-shirt world, its high cost often causes it to be replaced by viscose, an equally attractive synthetic alternative. Finally, let's not underestimate merino wool t-shirts, a surprising material, but oh so interesting for this type of clothing!

Cotton T-shirt

Cotton, this omnipresent natural material, remains the undisputed star in the world of fashion. Made from the delicate cotton flower, it offers unrivaled versatility. Moderately insulating, durable, easy to maintain and incomparably soft, it is available in a multitude of qualities, the height of elegance of which is reached by Zimbabwean cotton. However, if you're looking for the pinnacle of quality, the name to remember is Pima cotton , also known as Egyptian cotton. It comes from gossypium barbadense, a tree native to South America, giving rise to cotton with long, soft and strong fibers.
Speaking of t-shirts, it is impossible to ignore cotton jersey , a weaving that originated on the island of Jersey. It is now widely used to create light and soft fabrics, perfect for t-shirt designs intended for warm seasons.

Silk T-shirt

Silk, this marvelous animal fiber derived from the talented silkworm, is a real gem for fashion. With unequaled softness, it delights both the touch and the eye, making it one of the most prestigious fabrics as soon as it is spun. Silk is distinguished by its elasticity, strength, fineness, lightness and flexibility, all qualities which make it essential for the creation of luxurious clothing. If it is often present in the making of women's t-shirts, let's not underestimate its potential in men's fashion. Silk is a true statement of refinement, and it adapts perfectly to all styles.

Merino wool t-shirt

Who would have thought that merino wool, often associated with winter, would be such a versatile material? In fact, it's more than just an option for cold days. Merino wool is an exceptional material, capable of adapting to our body temperature, breathing and regulating heat. In other words, it behaves intelligently, providing comfort in both winter and summer. It's a fascinating alternative to cotton, especially considering its ability to absorb up to 35% of its weight in moisture. In addition, it has the advantage of not retaining any body odor.
However, it is important to note that a wool t-shirt can, like a sweater, undergo slight deformation depending on use and take a little longer to dry compared to a classic jersey t-shirt. . This is why merino wool has already won the hearts of cyclists and hikers, who appreciate its unrivaled performance in varied conditions.

 

Linen T-shirt

Linen, a material mainly found in summer collections, is the star of textiles when the mercury rises. Just like merino wool, linen is a master of thermal regulation , which simply means it knows when to let air circulate in hot weather and when to hold it in to maintain a consistent temperature. An undeniable quality of linen is its aversion to body odors, just like wool. Linen shirts are already known for their ability to offer welcome relief in scorching weather, and this same quality applies perfectly to t-shirts, especially if they are thin and airy.
However, it is important to note that linen has a rather robust texture which tends to wrinkle quickly after the first few uses. Additionally, it may experience some deformation, although this is less of a concern for a t-shirt, which is a less formal piece. A word of advice: avoid entry-level linen t-shirts, as their fibers are often more fragile and can mark creases more.

Synthetic T-shirts

Polyester , undoubtedly the most produced synthetic fiber worldwide, is a material that brilliantly combines strength and flexibility. It stands out for its ability to resist shrinkage and act as an effective shield against winter cold. In general, polyester is integrated into the composition of clothing alongside other materials to take full advantage of its advantages. However, it is preferable that its proportion remains modest.
As for viscose , this synthetic material, sometimes nicknamed “artificial silk”, lives up to its name. It shares with silk an exceptional finesse, softness, shine and strength. Its ability to absorb moisture makes it a preferred choice for linings, while allowing t-shirts to have a silky appearance without skyrocketing the price.

 

How to recognize a QUALITY t-shirt?

Besides the style and fit of a t-shirt, there are crucial things to consider when assessing its true quality. When you walk into a store or explore online options, the first essential step is to feel the fabric and ask yourself the right questions. Is it thin or thick? Does it offer exquisite softness or does it have a rough texture? Are the seams impeccable, without distorting the fabric? Where does it come from? What materials were used? In the vast t-shirt market, experience will gradually help you distinguish quality models and build your own list of reliable brands.

However, here are some general rules for deciphering the signs of t-shirt quality:

 

Start by avoiding low-price t-shirts

Let’s start by addressing the issue in a frank and direct manner! It's no secret: a t-shirt bought at a low price from a big brand is rarely the best option. We of course understand that the idea of ​​spending a little more on a t-shirt may seem difficult, although in the end it turns out to be a wise investment, because a quality t-shirt will not end up relegated to the bottom out of the cupboard after a few months of use. Now let's look at the multiple reasons why it's best to avoid cheap t-shirts:

• The fabric: Over time, the fabric of a low-end t-shirt will show obvious signs of wear, from unsightly holes to losing its original shape, not to mention the appearance of lint.
• Transparency: A cheap t-shirt often means thin, transparent fabric. Take the example of a low-end white t-shirt, it is the perfect illustration of this problem.
• The cut: Cheap t-shirts often suffer from an ill-fitting cut, whether it is too tight or, on the contrary, too loose. They often lack the precision that highlights us. If the t-shirt has no seams, it is usually a tubular construction, resulting in sleeves that are too large and a poor fit.
• Comfort: Poor quality jersey can be very uncomfortable to wear. The situation is even worse with low-quality synthetic materials.
• Washing: After several trips in the machine, the fibers of the t-shirt are quickly damaged, causing a premature loss of shape.

 

How to choose the WEIGHT of a T-shirt?

As we mentioned earlier, a t-shirt can be fashioned from a variety of materials, although cotton reigns supreme. But beyond the cut, assembly and finishes, never underestimate the importance of the choice of fabric and its weight when looking for the perfect t-shirt. In this quest, it is wise to turn to natural and breathable materials. However, unlike shirts, the weight of the fabric here is an indicator of quality, and even more so, durability.
A light, thin t-shirt will naturally be less robust than a thicker model. By browsing the fast fashion offerings (generally found in major brands), you will notice that the weights vary between 120 and 140 grams. Keep in mind that these pieces have a short lifespan, one season at most, or even two if you're optimistic. It is therefore not recommended to spend more than around fifteen euros for this type of t-shirt. It's best to invest slightly more in an entry-level mid-grade t-shirt.
A standard t-shirt , commonly found in most collections, has a weight of between 145 and 155 grams. Once you move up to a heavier weight, above 160 grams, you can expect a t-shirt made from a higher quality fabric, with a tighter weave. However, keep in mind that lightness does not necessarily mean mediocrity! For patterned t-shirts, for example, a heavier weight is preferable to ensure impeccable printing.
A smart tip for scorching days: opt for a semi-thick t-shirt, or even thick and slightly loose, instead of a thin, close-fitting model. Indeed, the latter risks quickly transforming into an undershirt, while the first option ensures a lifespan well beyond summer.

 

Take a look at the FINISHES of his t-shirt

Despite its apparent simplicity, assembling a t-shirt is actually a much more complex operation than it seems. When you have a t-shirt in hand, it is essential to pay careful attention to certain elements that make it up. It all starts with the collar, then continues with the overcasting, and finally arrives at the neckband.

The collar of the t-shirt

When you put on a t-shirt, the collar should sit elegantly against your neck, flat, without the slightest sign of twisting or unevenness. If this is not the case, this is a red flag that should not be ignored, and it is best to move on without hesitation. Unlike a shirt, where the number of seams per centimeter is of great importance, this is not necessarily the case for a t-shirt. Indeed, apart from the aesthetic aspect, these seams do not guarantee that the fabric will stay in place.
Some t-shirts have a round neck, decorated with a ribbed edge at the bottom, which combines practicality and aesthetics. The ribbed edge offers a touch of elasticity, making it easier to put on thanks to its stretchy mesh. It is also an aesthetic detail that perfects the finish of the top of the garment.

Overcasting

Overcasting is this discreet part of the seam which is located on the periphery of the piece. You'll spot it along the bottom hem of the t-shirt, along the sleeves, even inside the collar. Do not underestimate the importance of overcasting, because it plays an essential role: it simply prevents the different pieces of cut fabric from fraying. To check its quality, simply turn the piece over and inspect the strength of these seams.

The cleanliness strip

Finally, one last crucial point not to be overlooked: the cleanliness strip, sometimes called "reinforcement strip". This piece is discreetly inserted inside the t-shirt, more precisely at the nape of the neck. Its role is essential, because it must be carefully adjusted and uniform. As its name suggests, its mission is to protect the t-shirt, in particular against humidity linked to perspiration, while providing increased comfort. On some models, you will also find a neck strip at shoulder level.

The different t-shirts for men and women

Today, the t-shirt, an essential piece of our wardrobe, comes in a multitude of cuts, each offering a unique experience for an impeccable look. Among these variations, we find the oversize for lovers of comfort and/or streetwear, the slim-fit for those who prefer a fitted and very classic silhouette, without forgetting the famous V-neck t-shirt, long popular. Additionally, there are pocket tees, long sleeve tees, and patterned tees, each adding its own twist to your style.

Classic t-shirt, straight cut (regular)

Regular t-shirts, with their straight cut, embody the perfect balance between comfort and versatility. Designed to offer a relaxed silhouette without being too loose or too fitted, they are suitable for all occasions. This classic cut is ideal for those who prefer a timeless look and optimal ease of movement. Whether for a casual day or a more formal outing, regular t-shirts remain a safe and elegant choice.

Basic fitted t-shirt, cut close to the body

When we talk about body-hugging t-shirts, we're not talking about t-shirts that are so tight that you look like a reality TV star. Rather, these are pieces that naturally follow the contours of your body, hugging your biceps, chest and lower body. However, it is better to avoid them in hot weather, as we told you above, because the more the fabric is in contact with the skin, the more it can retain heat (and halos!). Nevertheless, they remain an excellent option for a comfortable t-shirt, halfway between the classic regular cut and the slim-fit.

Men's oversized t-shirt

Today, the t-shirt is no longer limited to the classic cut. It offers looser and more comfortable versions, a treat for streetwear fans. Sometimes called "oversized", this cotton t-shirt has longer sleeves, dropped shoulders or more puffed, thus distinguishing itself from standard models. People who want to stand out or adopt a less conformist style than the majority are invited to try this cut.

V-neck t-shirt

Ah, the famous V-neck t-shirt! Even though it had its heyday more than 10 years ago, it has gradually become more discreet in our wardrobes. However, it remains available from certain brands. However, you have to know how to master it. Avoid overly pronounced collars that go below the collarbones. Do not wear it too close to the body so as not to fall into the cliché of the “stars” (for a day) of TV shows that are not very informative. Do you see what we mean?

 

Pocket t -shirt

The pocket is one of the rare original details that can be added to a t-shirt. As with casual shirts or summer shirts, a t-shirt can feature a patch pocket on the chest. This choice is above all a matter of personal preference. The pocket does not necessarily have a utilitarian function, but it brings a touch of style to this simple piece that one might find a little bland. And then, it changes a little. It can also be interesting when wearing a t-shirt alone in summer, as it is the centerpiece of your look. Choose pockets that match the color of the t-shirt.

 

Long sleeve t-shirt

Long sleeve t-shirts include styles such as the sailor top or henley. For this category, fit is of great importance, as a long-sleeved t-shirt can quickly appear too baggy and uniform. This can quickly transform into a pajama t-shirt depending on the colors and cuts. Afterwards, it could be a style. It is therefore best to exercise caution when choosing this part. We recommend wearing a casual shirt, a sailor top or a henley instead.

 

Patterned t-shirt for the originals (ours!)

In addition to basic t-shirts in white or gray, patterned t-shirts bring a touch of originality to our outfits. For layering, it is best to avoid wearing a patterned t-shirt as the first layer. Instead, start with “graphic” t-shirts, where the pattern is uniform across the entire piece. Avoid patterns that are too imposing or eccentric, as they risk making the room too dominant. As patterned t-shirts are already original, stick to sober colors."
Let's now dissect the various methods of printing graphic t-shirts, because each technique has its particularities and its charm:

• Embroidery: Imagine a thread dancing on the fabric to create a relief pattern, that's the magic of embroidery. This technique can be done by hand with artisanal precision or by machine for faster production. Whatever the method, the result is strong, durable and offers a touch of elegance. Embroidered t-shirts are a priori more qualitative, but be careful, if the material is too light (fast-fashion type) the result will not be good.
• Flocking: Remember the felt-touch football jerseys? It’s flocking! This technique involves printing an image or logo on a felt-like medium. Thanks to a special press, the image adheres securely to the fabric, thus resisting repeated washing. However, flocking is less flexible in terms of shapes and details.
• Screen printing: Screen printing relies on the use of stencils to penetrate a resistant ink directly into the fabric. It is one of the oldest and most popular methods of textile printing. It allows great precision in details and guarantees bright and long-lasting colors.
• Direct-to-Garment (DTG) : This is a method of printing on fabric which involves applying ink directly to a garment using a special printer. This technique allows digital printing in color, ideal for complex designs, with great precision and subtle gradients. However, it mainly works on cotton or cotton blend textiles and can be more expensive depending on the quantity to be produced.
• Transfer: Imagine creating a print on a special sheet, then transferring it to fabric by pressure. This is the principle of transfer. This is an economical option, but it may be less durable than other methods. However, it offers a wide variety of colors and patterns.

Each technique has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to choose the one that best suits your needs and aesthetic preferences.

 

The DECISIONS we made at DISCIPLES: quality, durability and style.

At DISCIPLES, we pride ourselves on the choices we've made to create t-shirts that meet high standards of quality and durability. From our entry level, we have selected t-shirts with a thickness of 200g/m2, which makes them not only robust, but also able to withstand the test of time. You can rest assured that our t-shirts are built to last.

One of our main selection criteria was the choice of material, and that's why all our t-shirts are made from 100% cotton . This natural material offers unparalleled comfort and a soft feeling against the skin. Additionally, cotton is an eco-friendly option, which aligns with our commitment to sustainability.

We've also considered the issue of t-shirts shrinking after washing, a common concern for many buyers. That's why our t-shirts are pre-shrunk, meaning they will maintain their original size even after multiple washes. Afterwards, being jersey weave, it will inevitably move a little. We're not going to lie to you. But, you will no longer have to worry about your t-shirt going from a size M to a small S in a few weeks.

For our premium ranges, we go even further by using GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified organic cottons, the highest grade of organic certification for textiles. This not only ensures environmentally friendly products, but also decent working conditions for cotton producers. For our oversized t-shirts, we use OCS (Organic Content Standard) certified organic cotton , guaranteeing that 90% of the cotton used is organic. In addition, our products are OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified, which means that they are free of substances harmful to health.

When it comes to fits, we offer a variety of styles to suit all tastes, from classic to oversized fits. Our goal is to provide you with options that match your personal style.
When it comes to printing, we use the DTG (Direct to Garment) technique, which allows us to achieve the highest quality results with great precision and vibrant colors. However, we reserve embroidery for some of our hoodies and caps. Indeed, we obtain a very qualitative result when we have embroidery on a fairly thick material (more than a t-shirt).

When it comes to colors, you will have plenty of choice to satisfy your personal tastes. Even though we offer you a wide palette of colors, we believe that even in sobriety, there is room for originality. For example, an old pink can bring a touch of elegance and originality to your outfit. At DISCIPLES, we are committed to providing you with t-shirts that not only meet your practical needs, but also allow you to express your unique style.