5 of the best value for money t-shirts
Words: Alex Woodhall
The humble t-shirt has come along way from when it was just regarded as underwear. A menswear staple that is the backbone of any casual wardrobe, the plain cotton tee is about as essential as they come. Just ask Messrs Dean, Newman and Brando.
With this amount of importance, however, comes a significant amount of wear. On a parallel with underwear and socks, the t-shirt probably has to be replaced most often as it succumbs to the rigors of regular washing (hopefully) and weeks upon weeks of wear.
These are the brands that do some of the best value out there; leaving your wallet a little heavier when it comes to stocking up on basics, without compromising style in the process.
UNIQLO
The Japanese brand has built a reputation on delivering great quality clothing at scarily low prices. Unsurprisingly they’re the first name on the list, specifically the Supima Cotton crew-necks. Available in a raft of colours, the longer-lasting fabric is unmistakeably hard to beat.
Supima Cotton Crew-Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt, £9.90 from Uniqlo
COS
The smaller, more stylish sister brand of Swedish giants H&M, the COS aesthetic is the model of Scandi minimalism – an ethos the t-shirts have been effortlessly crafted in. Sumptuously soft pima cotton belies the price, you’ll want to stock up on these immediately.
Round-Neck T-Shirt, £12.00 from COS
JAMES PERSE
Epitomising the designer’s native of L.A., James Perse’s wares are luxurious but the sum of Cali-cool. Made in the U.S., their t-shirts are pricier than the two above but seriously worth the outlay.
Crew-Neck T-Shirt, £45.00 from Matches Fashion
SUNSPEL
What needs to be said about Sunspel that hasn’t already. Any and every menswear writer waxes lyrical about the brand, as does anyone who has ever pulled on a t-shirt of theirs. With over 150 years in the business and the first company to bring boxer shorts to the UK, Sunspel are synonymous with quality, their use of the best materials and attention to detail have seen to that.
Striped Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt, £60.00 from Mr. Porter
MARKS & SPENCER
The British high-street staple has upgraded their range of tees with StayNEWTM technology. Essentially, it promises to stay free of bobbling and reduces colour loss, making them look better for longer.
Pure Cotton Slim Fit Stay Soft T-Shirt With StayNEWTM, £7.50 from Marks & Spencer
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.