The Best V-Neck T-Shirts for Men, According to Fashion Designers
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It’s time to pull the v-neck’s reputation out of the gutter. Tumblr hipsters and the Jersey Shore cast plunged too far in the 2000s and early 2010s. V-necks came dangerously close to becoming an irredeemable faux pas, cast underneath button-down shirts never to be seen again. But styled correctly they can highlight a man’s upper chest perfectly, and help regulate temperature on a warm day. Through tactfully, more-conservative designs, and better brands crafting them, v-necks are making a comeback.
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A good v-neck doesn’t show a lot of chest. It shows slightly more than the average crewneck, dipping only slightly. Underneath a knit sweater a la Michael B or a hefty shacket (shirt jacket), it’s a great way to switch up a weekend silhouette from a tried-and-true jeans and jacket look.
Purchasing and wearing a v-neck is still a delicate choice, so picking the right one is essential. We spoke with menswear experts to determine which ones are worth donning over tasteful chest hair and which should be left in the VH1 archives.
What the Experts Say
For this story, SPY interviewed fashion PR guru Michael Corrigan; Daniel Brown, owner of Dallas vintage shop Nylo Wool; former Wilhelmina model and Tone House Coach James McMillian; and Luke Linder, Madewell Men’s Head of Design.
Each of them emphasized the importance of comfort in any staple t-shirt designed to be worn underneath a button-down or jacket. As far as v-necks go, pulling one off in today’s era means choosing one that isn’t too deep. The clavicle bone is as deep as you want to go.
Linder emphasized the importance of a neater look, “you want one that you can tuck in for a neater look, but also that isn’t too long if you don’t.”
“Plus, I want a fabric that’s gutsy and feels like it’s been washed for the last 30 years. All of these elements come into play when we’re working to create the perfect tee because the details make all the difference,” says Linder.
BEST OVERALL
Buck Mason Slub Curved Hem V-Neck Tee
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The Buck Mason Slub Curved Hem V-Neck Tee has Goldilocks proportions, according to Brown. “It’s not too deep of a neck and not too high, with just a subtle hint of V shape. The curved hem and being made in the USA are just a bonus,” says Brown.
Corrigan agrees, adding that “Color choice is essential; it’s a fine line between looking put together or looking like you are headed for a guest role on a reality show.” Buck Mason’s colors are timeless, so there’s little chance of pitfall there. Plus, the vintage look and feel make it seem like it’s been in a wardrobe for decades.
BEST FEELING
Mack Weldon Pima V-Neck T-Shirt
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Why It Stands Out: Mack Weldon makes more than just premium boxer briefs. The brand’s v-neck is made from super soft pima cotton that feels and looks incredible.
Made For: Those who don’t want to compromise between comfort and style. This shirt is super soft but still maintains a tailored look.
ROI: This shirt’s comfortable material and versatile design make it an easier sell than more luxe options. Corrigan says it’s “so soft that you might forget it’s there and comfortable enough to wear with a blazer or jeans.”
BEST VALUE
Tommy John Second Skin V-Neck Tee
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Why It Stands Out: The value comes from the wrinkle-resistant fabric that punches well above its weight and price. This v-neck is a perfect foundational undershirt or can be worn on its own.
Made For: Those who are skeptical that v-necks are actually back. These cost less than $20, so if you regret the purchase after the fact it’s not a ton of money down the drain.
ROI: “With prices this nice, you should buy it twice,” says Corrigan. These are very affordable, so even a few wears and washes will return the investment.
LIVES UP TO ITS NAME
Bonobos Soft Everyday V-Neck Tee
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Why It Stands Out: “Not just a clever name,” says Corrigan. “When they say you will want to wear this tee every day, they mean it.”
Made For: Those who want comfort above all else, as the shirt is made from soft cotton and is tagless to maximize how cozy it will feel.
Fun Fact: This v-neck is made from the same material and overall construction as Bonobos’ regular crewneck tee, which means it’s already super wearable and easy to fit into your everyday wardrobe.
ALSO CONSIDER
Abercrombie Essential V-Neck Tee
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Why It Stands Out: The Moose’s essential v-neck, like the brand, is also making a comeback with a midweight 180-gram cotton construction and a muted pink tone for standing out against more neutral tees.
Made For: Those who want to stand out for “all the right reasons,” says Corrigan. “Balance it out with a few neutral pieces to avoid feeling too much like a Ken doll.”
Hot Take: Pink is an underrated color.
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J. Crew Broken-in Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt
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Why It Stands Out: “Oh so perfectly broken in for that effortless style,” says Corrigan, and we agree. J Crew’s revival over the last few seasons is impressive and extends down to simple offerings like this v-neck.
ROI: A middle ground between luxury and drugstore tees for everyday use, these shirts are a great value and easily accessible at most major malls for restocks.
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Zara V-Neck T-Shirt
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Why It Stands Out: “Zara v-neck shirts are a perfect blend of fashion and versatility,” says McMillian. “With their affordable price point, they are easy to replace and a go-to option for going out.”
Made For: Those who don’t want a traditional-looking v-neck. The spread v-neck is structured in a way that makes it look like a v-neck knit polo, rather than a regular t-shirt.
ROI: At $40 a pop, these are slightly more expensive than other options. But the unique design is worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions About V-Neck Tees
Are V-Necks Cool?
Answers vary based on who you ask. Corrigan acknowledges that “v-necks [cause] very polarizing opinions” but insists that “the right one can still become a wardrobe staple.” We’re inclined to agree; the typical function of a v-neck is to serve as an undershirt but spend a bit more money on a sturdier option and it can hold its own under a jean jacket or flannel shirt.
Do V-Neck T-Shirts Improve One’s Physical Appearance?
Indeed. An inherently flattering style, a v-neck can help to make the neck look a little longer and broaden the shoulders.
How Can I Wear a V-Neck and Not Look Like a Tool?
Opt for any of the options above, and go for one that’s closer to a crewneck than a deep v-neck popularized by the likes of American Apparel in the late aughts. The end of one’s clavicle bone is about as deep as you want to go.
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