The Undershirt Dilemma
Generally, when it comes to undershirts, we say go with a simple v-neck. Crew necks that show under an unbuttoned dress shirt match well only with shaggy hair, chinos, and a white backwards hat. Maybe some Doc Martens too. And while upper-body-commando sometimes works well, you’d hate to be caught unprepared on a hot, muggy, pit-stain inducing day.
But unfortunately, it’s not always that simple. For example, v-necks often don’t go well with white dress shirts if you are buttoning them all the way up. They show through, and then you’re left with the shadow of a “V” framing the knot of your tie. Here are a few common scenarios that should keep you covered (or not):
- White dress shirt, buttoned all the way - this is a case where the v-neck probably isn’t a great call. Go with the body-conforming crew neck (Polo Ralph Lauren, $23 for two), or, if it’s a formal occasion, consider going without. On the most formal occasions it’s best to have no sign whatsoever of an undershirt.
V-Neck Stretch Cotton, $23 for 2
- Dress shirt with top button open - this is what the v-neck is best used for. Get the benefits of a bottom layer without the unseemly sight lines of a crew neck. (Polo Ralph Lauren, $23 for two).
American Apparel, $51 for 3
- Dress shirt with more than one button open – Sometimes one button undone just isn’t enough. If this leaves some of your v-neck exposed, you’ll need something deeper. Try the American Apparel ($51 for 3) version, unfortunately without the stretch but still a slim fit. And if you’re wearing something light and summery, of course you should just drop the undershirt altogether.
Look, no undershirt
If you wish to discuss this topic more… take it up with this guy: http://www.undershirtguy.com/.
