Women's Long Sleeve T-Shirts: Necklines, Fabrics and How to Wear Them
From October to April, a good long sleeve t-shirt is the layer you reach for most. It works on its own, sits under knitwear and blazers, and stops a wool jumper from feeling scratchy. This guide covers the necklines and fabrics worth knowing, how a long sleeve tee should fit, and how to wear one.
Choose your neckline
Crew neck. The most versatile shape: neat under a V-neck cardigan, easy with jeans and smart enough under a blazer. Our Long Sleeve Crew Neck Cotton Modal T-shirt is our best-selling long sleeve and comes in white, navy, black, pink and green.
Scoop neck. A softer, more open neckline that suits chunky and open cardigans. Try the Long Sleeve Scoop Neck T-shirt.
V-neck. Creates a longer line through the upper body and echoes the shape of a blazer lapel. Try the Long Sleeve V Neck T-shirt.
Roll neck. The warmest option, with a fine folded collar that keeps the cold off your neck without the bulk of a knitted jumper. Try the Roll Neck Micro Modal Top or the Striped Cotton Roll Neck, or see all roll neck tops.
Wrap. For something dressier, the Wrap Top in black or navy works with tailored trousers and skirts.
Choose your fabric
A long sleeve tee sits against your skin all day and has to slide under other layers, so a fine, smooth fabric makes the biggest difference.
| Fabric | How it feels | Best for | Our styles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton modal | Soft and smooth, with natural stretch | Everyday wear and layering under knitwear | Crew, Scoop, V-neck |
| Micro modal | Finer and silkier than cotton modal | Close-fitting layers and dressier tops | Roll Neck, Wrap Top |
| Cotton | Light and breathable | A classic striped roll neck | Striped Cotton Roll Neck |
| Linen | Cool, with a natural texture | Spring and early autumn | Long Sleeve Striped Linen T-shirt |
Our long sleeve crew is 50% cotton and 50% TENCEL™ Modal, knitted in Austria and made in Portugal. Read more in cotton modal vs cotton.
How should a long sleeve t-shirt fit?
- Close, not tight: a fitted body sits smoothly under knitwear without bunching.
- Sleeves to the wrist: long enough not to ride up when you reach, slim enough to slide inside a jumper sleeve.
- Enough length to tuck: our long sleeve crew has a 62cm body and 62cm sleeve.
Our long sleeve crew is a fitted style with stretch. If you prefer a more relaxed fit, Isobel recommends sizing up. See the size guide for measurements.
Five ways to wear a long sleeve t-shirt
- Under a cardigan: a white crew under a navy cardigan is one of the easiest combinations there is. More ideas in what to wear under a cardigan.
- Under a blazer: a black or navy crew or V-neck with tailored trousers makes a comfortable work outfit.
- With jeans: tuck a crew into straight-leg jeans and add a belt and ankle boots.
- With a midi skirt: a fitted long sleeve balances the volume of a pleated or A-line skirt.
- Under a wool jumper: a fine layer stops knitwear feeling itchy and adds warmth without bulk.
See more cold-weather pieces in The Layering Edit.
Caring for your long sleeve t-shirts
Machine wash inside out at 30°C, iron on a low heat and don't tumble dry. Fold rather than hang to stop the shoulders stretching. Our garment care guide has more detail.
Frequently asked questions
Which long sleeve t-shirt neckline is most versatile?
A crew neck. It works under cardigans, jumpers and blazers, and on its own with jeans or skirts.
What is the best fabric for a long sleeve t-shirt?
For layering, choose something fine and smooth, such as cotton modal or micro modal. Linen is better for warmer days.
Should a long sleeve t-shirt be tight?
It should be close-fitting but not tight, so it sits smoothly under other layers. If you like a looser shape, size up.
How do I stop sleeves bunching under a jumper?
Choose a fine fabric with a slim sleeve, and pull the t-shirt cuff down before you put the jumper on.
Shop long sleeve t-shirts
Browse all women's long sleeve t-shirts, see our roll neck tops, or start with the Long Sleeve Crew Neck Cotton Modal T-shirt.
