Crew Neck or V-Neck?

[rossination]

You are getting dressed in the morning and you plan on wearing some sort of a collared shirt. Do you put on a V-neck undershirt, or a crew neck? Why?

I've heard many people say that you always wear a V-neck, as having your undershirt showing is as bad as having your underwear showing (eek!), but I like the look of a white t-shirt underneath a dress shirt (think Michael Bluth in Arrested Development). I feel goofy whenever I wear a V-neck undershirt, and much prefer the crew neck undershirt (like a T-shirt). I also like to wear colored shirts under button up shirts, so I very rarely wear white undershirts anymore. Regardless, the question is still interesting...

EDIT: James brings up a good point: there is also the option of the tank top / A-shirt / "wife beater" style undershirt.

[With The Grain]

...

[fuerein]

A better question. Which would people rather see sticking out the top of a collared shirt where the top botton in undone, the collar of a crew undershirt or a patch of chest hair? Unless you're going for the '70s pimp look give me the collar of a crew shirt over the patch of hair anyday!

[EL Alamein]

For me it all depends on whether you're putting a tie on with your button down shirt. If you are wearing a tie then a crew neck undershirt is appropriate. If you're not wearing a tie and have your collar open then a V neck is appropriate, this is especially true in corporate. I personally do not wear undershirts when I wear open collar shirts but I always wear a crew neck undershirt whenever I wear a tie.

Chris

[moses]

I go for the V, as a rule. I keep only the collar button undone in the work setting with most shirts, because undoing the second button will show either way too much chest hair, or the V neck undershirt (now THAT is a sloppy look). I see a lot of guys in the corporate world wondering around with two buttons undone, and no undershirt. Do these guys wax, or what? Why no chest hair showing?

Also, I agree, if wearing a tie, then always a crew neck. This is especially important with a white shirt, since the undershirt can be seen through most white dress shirts to some extent, and a V ends up looking very unsightly under your tie.

Also, when casual, I usually either don't wear an undershirt, or go with a crew....

[TraderJoe]

For me it all depends on whether you're putting a tie on with your button down shirt. If you are wearing a tie then a crew neck undershirt is appropriate. If you're not wearing a tie and have your collar open then a V neck is appropriate, this is especially true in corporate. I personally do not wear undershirts when I wear open collar shirts but I always wear a crew neck undershirt whenever I wear a tie.

Chris

ditto.

[TheYoshi]

Why do you hate v-necks? is it a comfort thing? if so you have crappy undershirts.. try even some middle range types from banana republic or brooks brothers, you'll notice they are much more comfortable.

I'm a v-neck guy, except when I'm not :)

[Suzuki]

here is no "right" answer to this - it really depends on what look you're going for - the exposed collar is a more of a student/preppie look - saw a ton of this while in Maine a few weeks ago.

Whatever you do, make sure that your white/light shirts are thick enough so that you can't see your undershirt through the shirt.

Personally, I don't like undershirts - for me, they just get soggy and take longer than the shirt to dry out.

I do agree that quality makes a big difference - especially with crew necks, as the collars on better undershirts (I have some for wearing around the house) hold their shape much better/longer, which is important as it will be on display.

[moses]

Whatever you do, make sure that your white/light shirts are thick enough so that you can't see your undershirt through the shirt.

That is a good theory, which I try for. However, I have noticed that white dress shirts almost never fill this demand. On every white dress shirt I own, you can see where the undershirt sleeves end. This is everything from $40-$60 Polo and Nautica to $150-$200 Ungaro and Valintino. Does anybody else find this to be the case?

[mrob]

I'm clearly in the minority here, but I don't like the feel of an undershirt under my dress shirt.

They are hot, and feel bulky--and as an already, shall we say, robust kind of guy, I don't need anything adding more bulk to my profile.

I know that not wearing an undershirt probably decreases the life of my dress shirts, but as a teacher I'm not buying too many shirts that cost enough $ to worry about that too much.:redface:

[Sam]

There is no way I can keep an undershirt from appearing below my white dress shirts unless it is an oxford cloth shirt like a Polo dress shirt. I am going back to the crew t shirts as it looks wierd for a v-neck under a shirt and tie. Ill keep two or three v necks to wear with sweaters. the wife beaters as they call them, well, i like something under the underarm for sweat purposes and not to ruin a silk sweater or shirt

sam

[With The Grain]

...

[fuerein]

Okay, while we're talking about dress shirts, I have a question for you guys. (Sorry to hijack the thread). Does anyone else need 36/37 length sleeves? I can almost never find them and when I do the selection is near non-existant (especially since I also require a 16.5 or 17 neck). Grr. Anyway I just wanted to rant about dress shirts (and my last search was at Macy's so they should have a decent selection of dress shirts and sizes, and they do just not my size).

[Scotto]

Do your knuckles drag on the floor when you walk? :lol:

[fuerein]

Well, my dad does claim I have gorilla arms, but thats a whole different subject.

[rossination]

Okay, while we're talking about dress shirts, I have a question for you guys. (Sorry to hijack the thread). Does anyone else need 36/37 length sleeves? I can almost never find them and when I do the selection is near non-existant (especially since I also require a 16.5 or 17 neck). Grr. Anyway I just wanted to rant about dress shirts (and my last search was at Macy's so they should have a decent selection of dress shirts and sizes, and they do just not my size).

Adam! I can feel for you, Man. I am 6'5" and have a hell of a time finding pants or shirts that fit (I have what SWMBO calls an "Ape Index" of 3).

While they're not a great source for dress shirts, Gap XL Tall shirts fit quite well, and are good for casual kind of wear (some of their shirts are dressier, and they make a plain oxford style shirt in white and blue that I should probably try out).

Do let me know where you find shirts that fit, though!

[mrob]

Rochester Big & Tall--all the NBA players shop here, for obvious reasons: http://www.rochesterclothing.com/asp/dshirts.asp?PK=RS4&USID=2006080615082329

I did a quick check, and they carry your shirt size in multiple styles.

[gman]

You are getting dressed in the morning and you plan on wearing some sort of a collared shirt. Do you put on a V-neck undershirt, or a crew neck? Why?

I've heard many people say that you always wear a V-neck, as having your undershirt showing is as bad as having your underwear showing (eek!), but I like the look of a white t-shirt underneath a dress shirt (think Michael Bluth in Arrested Development). I feel goofy whenever I wear a V-neck undershirt, and much prefer the crew neck undershirt (like a T-shirt). I also like to wear colored shirts under button up shirts, so I very rarely wear white undershirts anymore. Regardless, the question is still interesting...

EDIT: James brings up a good point: there is also the option of the tank top / A-shirt / "wife beater" style undershirt.

A-Shirt is the way to go, no matter what they say!

[htownmmm]

With tie only: crew neck

With tie/sport coat/ suit: v-neck(since no one will see under the coat)

Mock: v-neck

Polo: v-neck


Marty

[Sue]

Adam,
JC Penny has a custom fit Big and/or Tall section. It is also available on their website. You give your size needs and in about a month you receive your custom made shirt or slacks. I am unsure if any other garments are offered. Your sizing information is kept on record for your next order. This may be an option for you if you are unable to find your size locally.
Sue

[letterk]

I live in Southern California where all undershirts are taboo. Not exactly sure why. I grew up in NH and always wore crew neck shirts. My wife made me stop wearing them altogether when I moved back to California.

[surfanimal]

I go for the "wider" v-neck shirts, unless it's a purely summer shirt (i.e. - linen) polo & t-shirts don't get undershirts for me.

[MJB]

I am alsways comfortable with a good cotton undershirt and good cotton shirt. I am a believer that when polyester is thrown into the mix things become much more uncomfortable.

I feel it best to always wear an undershirt except with an especially casual button down shirt--like flannel or chambray. An undershirt protects the investment of good cotton shirt so it can last years and years. Visible pit stains are simply unacceptable IMO--do you know if there are pit stains on my undershirt?

I personally own only v-neck undershits--works okay for me to not show chest hair and to not see undershirt. Many people nowadays allow the crew undershirt to be seen--I prefer not--problem is unless the buttons are well placed on an open collar sometimes the v-neck can be seen or too much chest hair--both of which are sloppy IMO.

[RichGem]

Personally, I hate to wear undershirts period and gave them up back in middle school. The few times that I do wear one (either it's really hot or really cold), it's a "wife beater" style. When I can I like to wear my collar open a button and that seems to be the style here. However, this IMHO is a no-no if you have a lot of chest hair. Myself, I shave, as do many guys up this way. So, if you're gonna wear a v-neck, shave it or have very little chest hair. Otherwise, crew neck it, please!

[Sam]

I have now seen what they call the tank shirt, or sleeveless T. Same as a crew neck but no sleeves. Personally, I agree with the crew neck under a dress shirt, white or otherwise, when a tie is worn. I do prefer to have my pits covered so as to help keep deodarant off my dress shirts. Now, winter has set in and I am finding that with some sweaters, even a V-neck tshirt shows in the back. Either I get the same color T shirt (well in black maybe) or I will use the A-line t-shirt, which is what my daughter's generation refers to as a wife beater

Sam

[Stauff]

V-neck for me. Although I do know a girl who thinks a crew-neck under a shirt is sexy...

[RichGem]

That is a good theory, which I try for. However, I have noticed that white dress shirts almost never fill this demand. On every white dress shirt I own, you can see where the undershirt sleeves end. This is everything from $40-$60 Polo and Nautica to $150-$200 Ungaro and Valintino. Does anybody else find this to be the case?

In this case (white dress shirt), I'd go for the A-line/wife beater tank style undershirt. You still see lines, but to me "A" lines look better than seeing sleeve lines. Of course there's the option of a sleevless crew neck too.

[Limey]

I always wear an undershirt but flip-flop between crew neck and v neck depending on the shirt. I have never worn the A line or wife-beater. Who came up with that name?

[Larry C in Texas]

A better question. Which would people rather see sticking out the top of a collared shirt where the top botton in undone, the collar of a crew undershirt or a patch of chest hair? Unless you're going for the '70s pimp look give me the collar of a crew shirt over the patch of hair anyday!

As a former pimp in the 70's, I stay true to myself and never wear an undershirt. It just seems to bind me under the arms, much like tighty-whities in the nether regions. I know, I know - TMI.

[RichGem]

I always wear an undershirt but flip-flop between crew neck and v neck depending on the shirt. I have never worn the A line or wife-beater. Who came up with that name?

It's I guess what you'd call "urban" slang of some sort. Based on the COPS type shows which invariable show some jerk being arrested for domestic abuse (aka: wife beating"). Invariabley, he's wearing a "wife beater"/A-line t-shirt as his only shirt.

[jduffy]

Make mine a wife-beater.

I want to look in character when the COPS TV show shows up! :biggrin:

[RichGem]

Make mine a wife-beater.

I want to look in character when the COPS TV show shows up! :biggrin:

Well.... let's hope they'll let you use a DE and a nice shave cream in prison. :biggrin:

[moses]

Well.... let's hope they'll let you use a DE and a nice shave cream in prison. :biggrin:

There's an Ebay auction up for a bunch of prison issue Techs with a key lock for blade changing. Might want to look into that....

-Mo

[kuzmo]

Well.... let's hope they'll let you use a DE and a nice shave cream in prison. :biggrin:

Hmm probably it is just my opinion but in prison the last thing you want to do is look attractive :blush:

[jduffy]

You never know man, those dudes in prison, particularly the ones on death row seem to hookup with some crazy lady on the outside who feels sorry for them!

I've never understood that one. :confused:

[kuzmo]

You never know man, those dudes in prison, particularly the ones on death row seem to hookup with some crazy lady on the outside who feels sorry for them!

I've never understood that one. :confused:

Well what I meant: there is not the issue with somebody outside .... :laugh:

[PalmettoB]

Crew. Living in a college town, it doesn't really matter if the neck shows under a casual shirt, and I just never liked V-necks. Plus I have them on those rare occasions I need to wear a dress shirt and tie!

[galopede]

Sorry for appearing thick, but why do lots of Americans wear a tee shirt/undershirt (or vest, as we call what I think you're refering to as a wife beater!) under a shirt anyway? I would certainly never wear one at the office as it would be too hot and uncomfortable. I would only ever wear one under a shirt as an extra warm layer when outside in winter. We have air conditioning in the office here in Britain!

Gareth

[javyn]

V neck here. I'll wear wifebeaters with short sleeve or polo shirts otherwise.

But for long sleeve, button up shirts, I've got to have on an undershirt to catch the sweat and keep from getting pit stains from my antiperspirant.

[fuerein]

Sorry for appearing thick, but why do lots of Americans wear a tee shirt/undershirt (or vest, as we call what I think you're refering to as a wife beater!) under a shirt anyway? I would certainly never wear one at the office as it would be too hot and uncomfortable. I would only ever wear one under a shirt as an extra warm layer when outside in winter. We have air conditioning in the office here in Britain!

Gareth

It is considered proper to wear an undershirt under a button-up shirt here for several reasons.

1. If you sweat, the sweat gets on the undershirt not the good shirt.
2. When you do sweat, clothes tend to cling to the body. With an undershirt the undershirt clings but the actual shirt doesn't cling (unless you are sweating like crazy).
3. Some people I have heard claim it adds body to the shirt.

As for an undershirt being too hot and uncomfortable, actually I find the opposite, I am far more comfortable with an undershirt than without, including temperature-wise.

[RichGem]

It is considered proper to wear an undershirt under a button-up shirt here for several reasons.

1. If you sweat, the sweat gets on the undershirt not the good shirt.
2. When you do sweat, clothes tend to cling to the body. With an undershirt the undershirt clings but the actual shirt doesn't cling (unless you are sweating like crazy).
3. Some people I have heard claim it adds body to the shirt.

As for an undershirt being too hot and uncomfortable, actually I find the opposite, I am far more comfortable with an undershirt than without, including temperature-wise.

As for me, I never got it/like it either as I mentioned above. BUT, I can see if as a fashion... showing off a little undershirt (of whatever style) with a shirt unbuttoned a little. The only really overwhelming reason I can come up with, though, is so that your nipples don't show through a thin or white outter shirt.

[moses]

Richgem,

I guess you have either very light colored, or no chest hair. Or wear fairly heavy shirts. With most, this is not a problem, but with a few very lightweight and light colored shirts, you can actually see my chest hair without and undershirt. Talk about not an attractive look.....

-Mo

[EL Alamein]

Richgem,

I guess you have either very light colored, or no chest hair. Or wear fairly heavy shirts. With most, this is not a problem, but with a few very lightweight and light colored shirts, you can actually see my chest hair without and undershirt. Talk about not an attractive look.....

-Mo

Mo, if I wear a light shirt I have the same problem. Almost all of my shirts are not light though so I can get away without an undershirt in the summer. In the winter it's too cold so I am wearing an undershirt every day now.

Chris

[RichGem]

Richgem,

I guess you have either very light colored, or no chest hair. Or wear fairly heavy shirts. With most, this is not a problem, but with a few very lightweight and light colored shirts, you can actually see my chest hair without and undershirt. Talk about not an attractive look.....

-Mo

agreed. not an atractive look.