Ever felt confused at how some brands can justify charging such high prices for wardrobe staples like T-shirts? Well, you’re not alone. Most people don’t know that high-end tees have benefits beyond their brand name, including for your health. The added confidence and comfort of designer tops is much more likely to get you up and moving about, for instance. Premium tees are also typically made with hypoallergenic materials.
But not all branded t-shirts are really luxury shirts. Here’s how to recognise when you’re actually buying something high-quality, so that you can T-shirt shop with confidence.
Fabric and Breathability
You might think that looks are the most important factor when it comes to fashion T-shirts, but it’s really what they’re made from that matters most. Cheap brands can often imitate the style of even the most fashion-forward tees, but they won’t make you feel the way upscale casual shirts made from fabrics like long-staple or Supima cotton do.
Premium tees feel cool, soft and dry, not rough and stuffy. When you’re warm, it feels like your body heat is naturally escaping through them, not building up inside. That’s what is meant by breathability. This is important for health too, as it reduces the sweat and moisture build-up that causes irritation and bacterial growth.
Construction
Fit and build quality are also factors that separate designer t-shirts from ordinary-style tees. They play a large role in the longevity of the shirt, as the better it is sewn together, the more resistant it will be to shrinkage and fraying with time. If you’re dropping big money on high-end tees, it’s important to know that they’ll last nicely and long. But the fit also matters for movement.
Better-constructed tees suit active lifestyles well, because they maintain their shape and resist tearing during movement, even when they are designed to fit snugly. By opting for high quality, you can explore any style you like, from trendy minimalism to sleek, sporty styles or baggy statement tees.
Certifications
Australian product safety rules for clothing offer some protection against common allergens, harsh chemical treatments, dyes and other potential sources of harm. However, there are certifications you can look out for that are even more stringent. GOTS, or the Global Organic Textiles Standard, rewards brands for following even stricter guidelines during the garment manufacturing process. Bluesign is another international body that certifies garments which meet criteria related to the chemicals they use on their fabrics.
Brands that have been certified by these bodies often state it on their website or on garment labels. It’s worth taking the time to learn them and look out for them, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Conclusion
Branded T-shirts and other designer tops don’t always justify their high price tags. However, if you can recognise the ones that do, they can make a great investment. Choose wisely using the tips above, and you’ll have a long-lasting wardrobe staple that looks and feels great, boosts your confidence, and even contributes to a healthier, more active lifestyle.