A plain tee looks simple, but two shirts in the same size can make you look broad and sharp or short and boxy. The difference comes down to shoulder seam, length and colour. This guide helps you pick LitBuy Spreadsheet T-Shirts that fit your frame, then style them with tucks, cuffs and a planned palette.
Start With Your Shoulder Measurement
The shoulder is the one point a tee cannot be adjusted around. Measure it before you compare size charts.
- Lay your best-fitting tee flat on a table.
- Measure straight across from one shoulder seam to the other.
- Write the number down, along with chest width (armpit to armpit) and body length (collar to hem).
Compare those three numbers against each listing in the T-Shirts category. A difference of more than 2 cm at the shoulder will be visible. Chest and length can be a little more forgiving.
Fit by Body Type
| Frame | What works | What to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Slim, narrow shoulders | Set-in shoulder, heavier 220+ gsm cotton for structure | Very thin, clingy fabric |
| Broad shoulders, slimmer waist | Regular fit with seam right on the shoulder bone | Boxy cuts that hide the taper |
| Fuller midsection | Slightly relaxed body, straight hem, darker tones | Tight hems that cling at the belly |
| Short frame | Shorter length, fitted sleeve ending mid-bicep | Long, oversized tees that cut the leg line |
| Tall frame | Longer body, drop shoulder to add width | Cropped tees that ride up |
How Length and Drop Shoulder Change Proportion
Your torso and legs read as a ratio. A hem ending at the mid-fly of your trousers keeps a balanced split. Drop it to the upper thigh and your legs look shorter; raise it to the belt and they look longer.
A drop shoulder places the seam 3 to 8 cm down the arm. That widens your upper silhouette and softens the shoulder line. It flatters tall or slim frames but can swamp shorter builds. If you want the relaxed look on a smaller frame, pick a drop shoulder with a shorter body so the top half does not overwhelm the bottom.
Tucking, Cuffing and the Half-Tuck
Full tuck
Works with high-rise trousers and a belt. Tuck, raise your arms once, and let the fabric blouse slightly so it does not look stretched.
Half-tuck
Tuck only the front 10 to 15 cm, centred or slightly off to one side. It shows the waist without the formality of a full tuck. Best with tees of medium length; long tees bunch at the back.
Sleeve cuffing
Roll the sleeve once, about 2 cm, to tighten it around the arm. Works on regular fits, not on drop shoulders, where it looks forced. Finish the look with a watch or chain from the accessories guide.
Plan a Colour Palette, Not a Pile
Pick a palette before you add to cart. A simple formula for ten tees:
- 4 core neutrals: white, black, heather grey, navy.
- 3 earth tones: olive, sand, washed brown.
- 2 accent colours: one warm, one cool, matched to your skin tone.
- 1 graphic tee that pulls from those colours.
Every tee should pair with at least three of your bottoms. Tees also work as the base under knitwear; our hoodie guide explains which weights layer cleanly. For a sport twist, a retro top from the jersey list can replace the graphic slot.
FAQ
What if I fall between two sizes?
Match the shoulder measurement first, then accept a little extra length or chest room.
Do heavier tees shrink less?
Pre-shrunk heavyweight cotton usually shrinks under 3 percent if washed cold and air-dried.
Where can I see all current picks?
The main LitBuy Spreadsheet lists every tee by category.
Find more fit and styling advice on the LitBuy Spreadsheet homepage, or browse every category guide from the guide index.