5 Best T-Shirts in the UK (and How to Care For Them)
A well-made t-shirt is a classic staple. The right t-shirt might be the most reliable piece in your wardrobe, whether layered under a jacket or thrown on with jeans. Finding the perfect tee - one that looks good, feels even better, and lasts wash after wash - is tricky with the countless options available to us. So, how can you tell which t-shirt company has the finest quality? More importantly, how do you make sure the one you like best will stand the test of time?
We’ve rounded up five of the top t-shirts in the UK, along with necessary care advice to assist you in maintaining and prolonging their life.
Best for |
Material |
Care tip |
|||||
|
|
|
|
||||
|
|
|
|
||||
|
|
|
|
||||
|
|
|
|
||||
|
|
|
|
Before we go into specifics, let's address a few commonly asked t-shirt questions.
-
Which t-shirt brand is the most durable?
Brands such as Plainandsimple emphasise high quality and well-thought-out construction, which translates to closer control over longevity. Washing all our fabric before it’s made into t-shirts means it’s pre-shrunk and therefore won’t shrink in your washing machine.
-
How do you know whether a t-shirt is good quality?
Examine the stitches closely. Quality t-shirts will have consistent, clean seams and strong collars that don't distort over time. While consistent fabric density is a good sign, heavier weight doesn't automatically mean better quality.
-
Should you choose t-shirts made of 100% cotton?
Definitely - if comfort and breathability come first. Being a natural fabric, cotton is excellent for moisture absorption and temperature control. Just make sure it's pre-shrunk (like all of ours) or washed according to guidelines to prevent surprises.
-
What is the best quality t-shirt fabric?
Many experts believe organic cotton provides the perfect mix of durability, breathability, and comfort. Processed without toxic chemicals, it's softer than traditional cotton and better for your skin and the environment.
-
Plainandsimple Premium Weight Organic Cotton T-shirt
Why it’s great: Our Premium Weight Organic Cotton T-Shirt offers what you want in a high-quality tee, even if we may be biased. Soft, airy, and durable, it's made from 100% organic cotton. Unlike fast-fashion choices, our tees are designed to retain their shape and feel after countless wears and washes.
Best for: Everyday wear, minimal wardrobes, and sustainable-minded buyers.
Material: 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton
Care tip: To maintain colour and fit, wash at 30°C, skip tumble drying, and iron inside out.
-
Sunspel Classic T-Shirt
Why it’s great: Sunspel is known for subtle British luxury. Made from long-staple cotton, their classic crew-neck tee has an extremely smooth texture and a refined drape. Those who value understated refinement love it.
Best for: Smart casual outfits, lovers of fine fabrics.
Material: 100% long-staple Supima cotton
Care tip: Air dry flat after hand or machine washing on a sensitive cycle.
-
Arket Heavyweight T-Shirt
Why it’s great: Arket combines Scandinavian style with high-street accessibility. At mid-range pricing, their heavyweight t-shirt provides great structure and a quality feel. It's perfect for people who prefer a boxier, more fashion-forward fit.
Best for: Statement basics, structured silhouettes.
Fabric: 100% cotton
Care tip: To avoid pilling, wash inside out; to keep its shape, avoid excessive heat in the dryer.
-
Universal Works Loopback Tee
Why it's great: Made and designed in the UK, Universal Works t-shirts are created with ethical standards and understated design elements that distinguish them. Slightly thicker and great for colder months, their loopback tee.
Best for: Layering under jackets, transitional dressing.
Composition: 100% cotton loopback jersey
Care tip: Don't hang it to dry since it could stretch the neck. Use a drying rack or fold flat.
-
Community Clothing Classic Tee
Why it’s great: Supporting UK companies and people, Community Clothing creates high-quality clothes. Built to last, their simple tee is no-frills, no-nonsense.
Best for: Daily essentials, mindful consumption.
Material: 100% cotton, UK-manufactured
Care tip: To keep shape, store folded; wash darks and lights separately to preserve colour.
Finding the Perfect T-Shirt
Start with these five necessities in mind:
-
Choose the right fit for you - slim, regular, or large? Select a shape that fits your body best and resonates with your style, too.
-
The best quality t-shirt fabric is usually 100% organic or Supima cotton. For improved texture and strength, look for words like "combed," "ring-spun," or "long-staple."
-
Better craftsmanship may be indicated by double stitching, taped seams, and ribbed collars.
-
Support brands that are honest and transparent about their materials and manufacturing methods.
-
A versatile t-shirt should transition seamlessly from home to office to evening wear without missing a beat.
Caring for Your T-Shirts Will Help Them Last
Investing in a good t-shirt is just the beginning; maintaining its structure and quality is where the real value lies. Here’s how to keep your tees in top shape:
-
Wash less: over-washing hastens fibre breakdown. Between wears, air out and spot clean minor stains.
-
Use a gentle detergent: opt for eco-friendly, enzyme-free detergents that won’t compromise fabric integrity.
-
Avoid high heat: wash on 30 degrees and turn your t-shirt inside out to prevent shine or burns. Avoid tumble dryers too, as they are tough on cotton. Whenever you can, lay your clothing flat or line dry them.
-
Don't hang; fold instead. Folding stops shoulder bumps and maintains necklines from drooping, especially for heavier tees.
Last Thoughts
From the ethical simplicity of Plainandsimple, to the tailored luxury of Sunspel, the UK is home to some remarkable t-shirt manufacturers. From everyday comfort to durability to sustainability, there's a great tee out there for you.
Which t-shirt brand, therefore, offers the finest quality? Your priorities will determine that. But we’re happy to inform you that Plainandsimple is among the very best if you want a mix of timeless design, durability, and sustainability.
Great t-shirts are not only about appearance; they are also about feeling good and doing good too.