Joybuy Insights

Buying men’s shirts and T-shirts: how to choose the right fit without making an expensive mistake

A new shirt seems easy to choose, until it becomes misshapen after a few washes, feels too tight or turns out to be unsuitable for the occasion you bought it for. When choosing men’s shirts and T-shirts, fit, material and care are more important than colour or brand name alone.

Three common pitfalls are:

  1. A fit that does not match your expectations. Slim fit means a narrower cut across the chest and waist. A regular or relaxed fit offers more room. As a result, the same size can fit differently from one brand to another.
  2. Vague material claims. “Soft”, “breathable” or “comfortable” tells you very little without the fibre composition and care instructions. Always check the label and product specifications.
  3. Using the wrong type of shirt. A men’s cotton T-shirt is suitable for everyday wear, but not automatically for intensive exercise. Conversely, a technical men’s sports T-shirt may be less suitable under a shirt or blazer.

Which specifications should you check before buying?

1. Fit and measurements

Do not just look at S, M or L. Where possible, compare the chest measurement with a shirt you already know fits well. Also pay attention to the description:

  • Men’s slim fit shirt: cut more narrowly for a close-fitting look.
  • Regular fit: offers more freedom of movement without being noticeably loose.
  • Relaxed fit: deliberately looser, for example for layering or casual men’s fashion.

With shirts, the collar size may be more important than the general letter size. A men’s shirt with a Kent collar and a collar size of 39 or 40 requires a different comparison from an M-sized T-shirt. Also check whether the size chart uses EU, UK or US sizes.

2. Material and stretch

The fibre composition gives you a more concrete idea than marketing terms. Cotton generally feels familiar and comfortable for everyday wear. Elastane can provide extra stretch, which is useful in a men’s slim fit shirt or men’s polo shirt.

One example is the Calvin Klein Stretch Pique Slim Button Polo, whose product information lists 96% cotton and 4% elastane. The stretch piqué construction and short sleeves make this type of men’s polo suitable for a polished casual or smart-casual outfit.

Polyester can be practical for sports and outdoor activities. The The North Face Men T-Shirts NF0A8E1B is listed as 100% polyester, and the brand describes FlashDry as a technology that wicks away moisture and helps the shirt dry faster. This is a claim from the brand’s product information; treat it as a product specification, not a guarantee for every sportsperson or situation.

3. Care instructions and durability

Care affects how well a shirt retains its appearance. Check:

  • maximum washing temperature;
  • whether it can be tumble-dried;
  • ironing temperature;
  • whether it should be washed with similar colours;
  • special instructions for prints or technical fabrics.

According to the product information, many Calvin Klein T-shirts from a 3-pack of men’s T-shirts should be washed at 30 °C and must not be tumble-dried. The North Face models generally recommend washing at up to 40 °C, using mild detergent and air-drying. Always follow the label on the product you receive if it differs from the information online.

A multipack is convenient for everyday wear, but check whether it contains three identical colours or a combination. The Calvin Klein S/S V Neck 3PK for men is available as a set in black, white and grey marl. Another version consists of three white V-neck T-shirts.

Recommendations by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Calvin Klein S/S V Neck 3PK black white grey marl men’s

Calvin Klein S/S V Neck 3PK, MP1, Black/White/Grey Heather, Men S

Why it suits this profile: A set of three immediately gives you several essential options for everyday wear, under a shirt or beneath a jumper. The V-neck is also less visible when worn with an open shirt or other unbuttoned top layer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page clearly states that the pack contains three items, with a regular fit and classic V-neck. This means you can check the contents of the pack in advance.

Key benefit & advantages

Three colours, short sleeves, regular fit and machine-washable at 30 °C according to the product information.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking premium quality
Calvin Klein Poplin Stretch Slim Shirt black men’s

Calvin Klein Poplin Stretch Slim Shirt Black Men 43

Why it suits this profile: This Calvin Klein men’s shirt combines a black colour with a slim fit and Kent collar. It works well for the office, dinner or a smart combination with jeans.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stretch composition makes the fit more tangible than simply labelling it slim fit. However, check that collar size 43 matches your own sizing requirements.

Key benefit & advantages

96% cotton and 4% elastane according to the product details, in black with regular-length sleeves.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
The North Face men’s T-shirt NF0A8E1B

The North Face Men T-Shirts NF0A8E1B Mushroom Ember XS

Why it suits this profile: This The North Face men’s T-shirt is designed for training and outdoor activities. The standard fit provides room to move when running, walking or enjoying an active day.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the material, fit and care instructions. According to The North Face’s own information, FlashDry is designed to wick away moisture; check whether this feature suits the way you intend to use it.

Key benefit & advantages

100% polyester, standard fit and sizes from XS to 3XL according to the supplied size chart.

Suitable for: Casual wearers and cotton lovers
The North Face cotton men’s T-shirt

The North Face Men T-Shirts NF0A8E4E White Dune S

Why it suits this profile: The relaxed fit and cotton jersey material are ideal for everyday wear, travelling, camping and layering in changeable British weather.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description explicitly states that it has a relaxed fit, is made from 100% cotton and uses 160gsm jersey. This gives you a clearer idea of what to expect than a general claim about comfort.

Key benefit & advantages

100% cotton, crew neck, generous fit and a water-based print on the back.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about men’s shirts and T-shirts

How do I choose the right size for a men’s shirt?

Lay a shirt that fits well flat and measure it across the chest, then compare the width with the product’s size chart. Also check the stated fit and the sizing standard used. With a slim fit, a larger size may feel more comfortable if you have broader shoulders or prefer a less close-fitting cut.

Is cotton suitable for everyday wear?

Cotton can be a practical choice for everyday wear thanks to its familiar texture and versatile appearance. However, always check the care label. A men’s cotton T-shirt can shrink or lose its shape if it is washed incorrectly or dried at too high a temperature.

When should I choose a sports shirt instead of a regular T-shirt?

Choose a men’s sports T-shirt when moisture management, quick-drying fabric and freedom of movement are important. For the office, under a men’s shirt or with smart-casual clothing, cotton or a cotton blend is often the more practical choice. Always check the fibre composition and verify claims such as “moisture-wicking” against the product description.