What To Wear Under a Dress Shirt — Our Guide to Undershirts

Is wearing an undershirt under your dress shirt really necessary? It might seem counterintuitive, especially when the mercury rises. But trust us, there’s more to this style essential than meets the eye.

We teamed up with Leigh McKenzie, the Owner of UnderFit.com, for his thoughts on this question. McKenzie emphasizes, “A quality undershirt is the unsung hero of a man’s wardrobe. It’s not just about tradition—it’s about comfort, protection, and looking your absolute best.”

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover:

• Why undershirts are crucial (even in 2025)
• How these hidden heroes can dramatically improve your look and comfort
• Expert tips on choosing the perfect undershirt for any occasion
• Our top undershirt picks for every budget and preference

Let’s dive into the world of undershirts and uncover why they’re the secret weapon in every well-dressed man’s arsenal.

The Undershirt Dilemma

For many men today, undershirts might seem like a relic of the past, something their grandfathers wore but that’s no longer relevant. After all, why add an extra layer, especially when it’s sweltering outside?

But here’s the truth: Undershirts are more relevant than ever in 2024. They’re the unsung heroes of a well-dressed man’s wardrobe, playing a crucial role that goes far beyond mere tradition.

Why Undershirts Matter

1. Sweat Management: Your Personal Climate Control

Job number one for an undershirt? Sweat management. Think of an undershirt as your personal towel boy, constantly working to keep you dry and comfortable.

Here’s how undershirts tackle the sweat problem:

• Absorption: They soak up sweat before it reaches your dress shirt.
• Wicking: Quality undershirts pull moisture away from your skin, allowing it to evaporate faster.
• Protection: They create a barrier between your body and your dress shirt, preserving the life of your finer garments.

The result? No more embarrassing sweat stains, no river running down your back, and no damp, clingy dress shirts. You stay cool, dry, and confident all day long.

Pro Tip: In cooler months, undershirts pull double duty. They add an extra layer of warmth without bulking up your look with heavy outer layers.

2. The “Crisp Shirt” Effect: Elevating Your Style Game

Ever wonder why some men always look impeccably put-together, even in a simple white dress shirt? The secret often lies in what you can’t see – a well-chosen undershirt.

Here’s how undershirts enhance your appearance:

• Smoothing: Creates a sleek base layer, eliminating lumps and bumps for a more polished silhouette.
• Brightening: A white undershirt can make your white dress shirts appear even crisper and brighter.
• Concealing: Hides chest hair, back hair, or tattoos for a more professional look when needed.
• Preventing Show-Through: Adds an extra layer of opacity, especially crucial with lighter colored dress shirts.

Choosing the Right Undershirt: A Step-by-Step Guide

Selecting the perfect undershirt isn’t rocket science, but there are a few key factors to consider:

1. Fabric Matters

Different materials offer different benefits:

• Cotton: Classic comfort and breathability, but tends to retain moisture.
• Synthetic Blends: Superior moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties.
• Modal: Ultra-soft feel with good moisture management.
• Bamboo: Eco-friendly option with natural odor-resistant properties.

2. Fit is King

The right fit can make or break your undershirt experience:

• Aim for a snug but not restrictive fit.
• Avoid excess fabric that can bunch up under your dress shirt.
• Consider length – you want an undershirt that stays tucked in throughout the day.

3. Neckline Navigation

Choose your neckline based on how you’ll wear your dress shirt:

• V-neck: Ideal for open collar shirts or when you want to keep your undershirt hidden.
• Crew neck: Best for ties and fully buttoned-up looks.
• Tank top: Maximum ventilation, but risky with light-colored or thin dress shirts.

4. Color Considerations

While white is the classic choice, don’t discount other options:

• White: Versatile, works under most shirts, enhances brightness of white dress shirts.
• Grey or Nude: Can be less visible under light-colored shirts than white.
• Black or Navy: Good choices for darker dress shirts.

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Our Top Picks for 2025

We’ve done the legwork to bring you the best undershirt options for every preference and budget:

1. Best Overall: UnderFit

• Price: $36 (Multi-Pack Discounts Available)
• Why we love it: Combines comfort, performance, and invisibility for the ultimate undershirt experience.
• Details:
  • Options available in v-neck and crew neck styles
  • 57% TENCEL™ Modal / 38% Lyocell / 5% Lycra (Spandex) blend
  • Excellent moisture-wicking properties
  • Moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties
  • Slim fit design contours to your body without being restrictive

2. Best Performance Option: Mack Weldon Undershirt

• Price: $38.00
• Why we love it: High-tech fabric blend that offers stretch without shrinkage and excellent sweat-wicking.
• Details:
  • Available in crew neck and v-neck styles
  • 50% Polyamide / 33% Polyester / 17% Elastane
  • Stays tucked and retains shape wear after wear

3. Best Value Option: UNIQLO AIRISM $14.90

• Price: $9.90
• Why we love it: Affordable yet high-performing, with innovative cooling technology and an ultra-thin material.
• Details:
  • Available in crew neck, v-neck, and tank styles
  • 89% polyester, 11% spandex blend
  • Excellent moisture-wicking properties
  • AIRism technology for superior breathability

The Undershirt Faux Pas: What to Avoid

While we’re singing the praises of undershirts, it’s worth noting a few pitfalls to avoid:

1. The Visible Undershirt: If you’re wearing an open-neck dress shirt, make sure your undershirt isn’t peeking out. Opt for a v-neck to stay incognito.
2. The Compression Shirt Trap: While some men turn to compression shirts or “mirdles” for a slimming effect, we advise against this. Not only can overly tight garments pose health risks, but they’re also no substitute for well-fitted clothing.
3. The Baggy Undershirt: An ill-fitting, loose undershirt can bunch up under your dress shirt, creating unsightly lumps and bumps. Always aim for a snug, smooth fit.

The Bottom Line: Undershirts Are Your Style Foundation

Investing in quality undershirts is like building a strong foundation for a house. It might not be immediately visible, but it makes everything else look and feel better.

Remember:

• Choose the right fabric for your needs and the weather
• Nail the fit – snug but not restrictive
• Match the neckline to your shirt style and how you plan to wear it
• Don’t shy away from trying different colors beyond classic white

By mastering the art of the undershirt, you’ll join the ranks of well-dressed men who understand that true style starts from the inside out. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in how you look and feel throughout the day.

Now it’s your turn: What’s your go-to undershirt brand? Have you experienced the difference a good undershirt can make? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!