Beyond the Basics: Our Top 10 T-shirt Options

Multi Color Shirts on a rack with wooden hangers

You can never have too many T-shirts. But if your T-shirt collection has about as much variety as your dad’s closet, then you’re not living your best life.

When it comes to T-shirts, you have way more options beyond your basic tee. Depending on the season and who will be wearing your shirts, there’s a ton of styles to choose from. So go beyond the basics and find your perfect design. 

The Lineup

Lightweight/Fashion

Lightweight tees are super soft and comfy. They’re one of the most flattering styles of tees, too. That’s because they have a slightly tapered fit and shorter cap sleeves than a standard T-shirt. The thin cotton fabric works great with water-based inks, which is perfect if you’re going for a vintage look. If you love a simple look while staying stylish, go for a lightweight fashion tee. 

Raglan

Also known as a baseball tee, raglans are a completely different design than a standard shirt. The sleeves go all the way to the collar of the shirt, which makes it easier to move if you’re lifting or carrying things.  And thanks to their distinctive two-tone look, they really stand out. You can choose a classic color combination like black and white, or go with a bold color pairing that pops. Raglans come in short sleeve and full sleeve, but most people like the popular ¾ length sleeve.

Distressed

Brand new and beaten up at the same time, distressed tees have an edge to their vintage feel---perfect if you’re just a little bit punk. Try a stone wash tee, which tosses the shirts around with a lot of rocks to break down the color of the original shirt. Plus, all that distressing makes the fabric extra soft along the way, so they’re ultra comfortable, too. For an even more distressed look, go for a burnout tee. These tees are splashed with acid, which creates thin, splotchy patches for that ultimate worn-out look.

Ringer

Pair a ringer tee with a pair of Chucks or Stan Smiths if you dig that 70’s vibe. Ringer tees are the ones with those colored bands of ribbed fabric around the sleeves and collar. This style has been around for years, so it’s a definitely a classic. With a retro sporty look, these tees are perfect for bringing some old school competition to your next fun event.

Cloud dye

Cloud dye is the more modern version of tie dye. With their combination of muted colors and softened lines, cloud dye shirts are still fun and interesting without being garish. Their almost unlimited variety of color combinations means you can get as creative as you want. And no two dye jobs are exactly the same, which makes each shirt one-of-a-kind. So if you love clothes that are unique as you are, go for a cloud dye. 

Henley

A blend between preppy and sporty, henleys are a total classic. They’re basically a collarless polo shirt, with two to five buttons on a very slight vee neck. Just by adding these buttons, you completely elevate what was once a simple tee---making you look polished while staying just as comfortable. Henleys are great if you’re a traditionalist at heart but like to keep things casual.

Performance

Smooth, moisture-wicking fabric make performance tees the top choice for the Houston heat we all know and love. (Okay, “love” could be a stretch). Whether you prefer Nike, Adidas, or Under Armor, you just can’t go wrong with quality dri-fit tees on a hot and humid day. With their relaxed fit, they’re easy to wear all day long. Go for a performance tee when comfort matters most. 

Football

Another great throwback style, you can spot a football tee by the double band of contrasting fabric on the shirt sleeves. Available in both vee neck and crewneck, they’ve got a casual and sporty look without going quite as retro as a ringer tee. These would be a really fun option for team building events or fundraisers.

Long sleeve

Available in cotton, blended, or performance fabric, long sleeve tees are a must for anyone who spends hours outside every day. They’re a wardrobe staple for everyone from landscapers to site surveyors to sports coaches. Pick a long sleeve tee to make sure you get essential protection from that intense Houston sun.

Heavyweight

Heavyweight cotton has been a rising streetwear trend for years, and it’s honestly the OG of comfort. With extra-heavy 100% cotton fabric and a straight, boxy fit, this is a solid basic that anyone can wear. We can get Los Angeles Apparel tees in the color of your choice printed with whatever design you want. Plus, these tees are also one of the most affordable options when it comes to bulk orders.  

three people wearing 3 different styles of shirt.

Pick Your Perfect Tee

Now that we’ve overwhelmed you with options, here’s some advice on how to narrow it down to your best fit. Start by answering three simple questions:

  1. Does the style align with your brand and company image?
    (If you’re a sophisticated day spa, maybe a retro ringer tee isn’t the look for you.)

  2. Does it work for the time of year?
    (A performance tee could be a great option if you’re placing a summer order, when the temperature in Houston is equal to the surface of the sun.)

  3. Does it need to accommodate any particular function?
    (Raglans are great for movement and mobility if you’re ordering shirts for day care employees, for example.)

From design to delivery, we’re here to help. Create a great shirt that’s you to a T---get in touch with our team now.

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