Ultimate Guide: How to Find The Perfect Women's T-Shirt
A good t-shirt does a lot of work, and the right one depends on fabric, fit, neckline, sleeve length and colour. This guide takes you through each choice so you can find a t-shirt you will wear for years.
Understanding t-shirt fabric
Fabric decides how a t-shirt feels, how it drapes, how breathable it is and how well it lasts. The main options are cotton, TENCEL™ Modal and polyester, often in blends.
- Cotton: breathable, familiar and easy to care for. Longer-fibre cottons feel smoother.
- TENCEL™ Modal: a cellulose fibre made from beech wood pulp. It is smooth with a soft drape, and is often blended with cotton.
- Polyester: a synthetic fibre that dries quickly and resists creasing, but is generally less breathable than cotton.
Thickness matters too. A lighter jersey drapes and layers well; a heavier one holds its shape and is less see-through. You can read more about our fabrics and production. A white t-shirt is worth buying in a heavier weight so it does not show through.
T-shirt styles
Crew neck tees are the classic. V-necks, scoop necks and boat necks each change the look of your upper body. You can see what makes our t-shirts different for more about cut and fit.
As a rough guide: a V-neck lengthens the neck, a scoop neck is softer and more open, a boat neck sits wide across the collarbones, and a crew neck is the most casual. Try a few and see what you reach for.
Choosing colour
Darker colours look more streamlined; light colours and pastels look fresh and softer. Neutral colours (white, black, grey, navy, camel) are the most versatile. If you want help choosing, see our guide to dressing in colours that suit your skin tone.
Getting the size right
Fit affects both comfort and how a tee looks. Measure your bust, waist and hips with a soft tape measure, and compare them with the size guide. Think about whether you want it fitted or relaxed, and whether it will be tucked in or worn out. If you are between sizes, size up for a looser fit.
Necklines
Browse by neckline. Crew, V-neck, scoop and boat necks each suit different outfits: a V-neck works under blazers and open shirts, and a scoop neck is good with necklaces. Choose by how you dress and what you feel comfortable in.
Sleeve length
Short sleeves suit warm weather and layering; three-quarter and long sleeves work in cooler months and under jackets. Browse by sleeve length, and consider how sleeves sit under the jackets and cardigans you already own.
What to look for in a well-made t-shirt
- Even, secure stitching and flat seams.
- Fabric that keeps its shape when you pull it gently.
- A neckline that is firm and does not gape.
- A clear fibre content label.
A t-shirt that holds its shape and colour through repeated washes costs less per wear than one you replace every season.
Our t-shirts
Lavender Hill is an independent British brand. Our clothes are designed in Britain and most of our t-shirts are made in Portugal. Our t-shirt collection includes styles in cotton and TENCEL™ Modal; for example, our scoop neck cotton modal blend t-shirt. Each product page lists the fabric.
Caring for your t-shirts
- Wash inside out, at the temperature on the care label, to protect colour and fabric.
- Air dry, or tumble dry on low if the label allows.
- Rotate your t-shirts rather than wearing one repeatedly.
- Mend loose threads and small holes promptly.
- Store folded in a cool, dry place.
Final thoughts
The best t-shirt is the one that fits properly, feels good against your skin and suits what you already wear. Start with fabric and fit, then choose neckline, sleeve length and colour to suit your wardrobe.