Men's T-Shirts
A great t-shirt looks simple, but it's harder to get right than a formal shirt. Fit, neckline, fabric, and care all decide how it looks and how long it lasts — and after 30+ years making t-shirts for Indian men and Indian weather, we know exactly what works.
Why It Matters
Most men reach into the drawer, grab whatever is on top, and go. But a t-shirt that fits well and feels right quietly changes how you move through the day — how you look, how confident you feel, and how long the shirt survives choices you never knew mattered.
A t-shirt seems simple, and that is exactly why it is easy to get wrong. One that drowns you in fabric reads sloppy; one that is too tight reads try-hard; one cut for Western frames rarely works for Indian proportions; and one made from the wrong fabric for India's heat and humidity will pill, fade, and lose shape after a handful of wears.
This guide is built on what 30+ years of making t-shirts has taught us. We've tested fabrics through monsoons and heat waves, refined fits for leaner Indian builds, and learned which necklines, patterns, and care habits actually matter. It is not generic advice — it is lived experience from across 123+ Basics stores in South India.
The Basics view
A good t-shirt doesn't need a luxury price tag — it needs intention. Get the fit, the fabric, and the care right, and a simple t-shirt will look better, feel better, and last years instead of months.
Part One
Fit: Comfort vs. Relaxed
Fit is the foundation — neckline, fabric, and colour only work once the fit works for your frame. And Western t-shirt sizing rarely accounts for how Indian men are built: most global cuts assume broader chests and looser proportions, so a standard relaxed tee swallows a leaner build. We offer two fits — Comfort Fit (fitted and tailored) and Relaxed Fit (loose and easy). "Size" and "fit" are not the same thing: the silhouette, not the label, is what matters.
What It Is
Our Comfort Fit is engineered to follow the body — a fitted, tailored cut built for leaner and athletic frames. The chest sits proportional to your actual chest (fitted, never tight), the waist tapers gently to follow your natural line, the shoulder seam lands where your shoulder ends rather than two inches beyond it, and the length falls cleanly at the hip. This isn't about showing off a physique; it is about proper proportion so the shirt looks intentional rather than accidental.
Why It Works
- Built for lean & athletic buildsIdeal for men who wear S, M, or L and are tired of tees that hang baggy. It respects the frame instead of drowning it.
- Reads intentionalA fitted cut looks put-together as a standalone piece — the difference between a t-shirt that looks chosen and one that looks grabbed.
- Sharper with every necklineThe tapered waist gives Crew, V-Neck, Polo, and Mandarin a clean, deliberate line rather than a shapeless drape.
- Lasts longer, tooWhen a shirt fits the shoulders, chest, and waist properly, the fabric isn't stressed by excess length and width — so it holds its shape.
The everyday baseline for most men
Comfort Fit is fitted, not tight. Tip: if you prefer a touch more room, size up within Comfort Fit — you keep the contoured cut with a little more ease. Pair it with a cotton-elastane fabric and the tapered silhouette moves with you all day.
Want a fitted, tailored silhouette?
Browse all T-Shirts →Fitted cut, intentional look, everyday-ready.
What It Is
Our Relaxed Fit puts comfort first. The chest is cut fuller so nothing clings, the waist stays nearly straight instead of tapering, the shoulder seam is broader, and the length runs a little longer for more coverage. It moves freely, layers easily, and never feels snug — the cut for men who find fitted clothes restrictive, and for larger builds that a contoured tee fights against.
Why It Works
- Built for broader framesBest for larger or broader builds (L, XL, XXL) and anyone who feels boxed in by fitted clothing.
- Comfort and movementMore room means more freedom to bend, reach, and move — ideal for casual days and untucked wear.
- Layers without bulkThe extra room makes it an easy base layer under open shirts and overshirts.
- Cooler in the heatThe straighter, roomier cut lets air move and clings less when you sweat — welcome in summer and monsoon.
Comfort, by design
Relaxed Fit says "I prioritise comfort." Tip: a looser tee can read sloppy if the rest of the outfit is careless — anchor it with tailored trousers or structured shorts, and size down within Relaxed for a slightly cleaner line without losing the ease.
FIT GUIDE
How to Choose: Comfort or Relaxed?
There is no "right" answer — only what looks and feels good on your body. Weigh three practical factors:
- Your frame & buildLean or athletic, with a preference for a fitted look, points to Comfort Fit. A broader or larger build, or a dislike of snug clothes, points to Relaxed Fit. Neither is wrong — it is honest geometry.
- Your comfort preferenceComfort Fit gives you a tailored feel (fitted, not tight). Relaxed Fit gives you unrestricted room and movement.
- Your lifestyleWear tees as standalone pieces most days? Comfort Fit usually serves you better. Layer often, or want maximum ease? Relaxed Fit makes sense.
Many men own both
The surest way to know is to compare our size charts against a t-shirt you already love — does the shoulder seam sit where your shoulder ends, and does the waist follow your proportions or hang loose? Both fits are available online and across 123+ Basics stores in South India.
Part Two
Necklines: Five Styles
A t-shirt's neckline is its signature. It frames your face, sets how formal the shirt reads, and changes the whole garment — the same tee in the same fabric looks completely different as a Crew, V-Neck, Polo, Henley, or Mandarin. Neckline choice is as important as fit. Here are the five we make, and exactly when to wear each.
NECKLINE 01
Crew Neck: The Foundation
The classic t-shirt neckline — a simple rounded collar that sits at the base of the neck. It is the most versatile and most forgiving, and it demands nothing of you: wear it with jeans on the weekend, under a button-up at the office, tucked or loose. If you own only one t-shirt, it should be a Crew.
- Who it suitsEveryone. Crew necks are agnostic about build, age, and occasion — the neckline you return to again and again.
- When to wear itEvery day. A Crew in white, navy, or grey is the backbone of any wardrobe.
The versatile everyday foundation.
NECKLINE 02
V-Neck: The Style Play
A V-neck dips lower at the centre, drawing the eye down and inward to elongate the torso and refine the silhouette. Where a Crew is neutral, a V-neck signals a conscious choice — it reads slightly dressier and more curated. It is especially sharp in Comfort Fit, where the tapered waist and the V create one clean line, and it flatters broader shoulders and fuller faces.
- Who it suitsAthletic builds, broader shoulders, and men who prefer a more fashion-aware look.
- When to wear itCasual settings where you want to signal style, and semi-formal evenings. Pair with tailored trousers or dark denim; skip it for very conservative business settings.
Slightly dressier, style-forward.
NECKLINE 03
Polo: The Structured Choice
A Polo adds a small, defined collar and a short two-to-three button placket. That structure sits right at the intersection of casual and polished — more than a plain tee, less than a button-up shirt — and the placket lets you dial the look up or down. In Comfort Fit, the tapered body makes the collar feel intentional rather than accidental.
- Who it suitsMen who want a little more polish, and anyone in a smart-casual dress code or creative office.
- When to wear itSmart-casual settings — with chinos or tailored shorts, loafers or minimalist sneakers. Ideal for weekend gatherings and put-together casual days.
Structured collar, smart-casual polish.
NECKLINE 04
Henley: The Textured Statement
A Henley runs a longer four-to-five button placket and sits a touch higher on the chest, giving the tee subtle texture and a heritage-inspired, slightly rugged character. The placket adds visual interest without shouting, and it works beautifully worn alone or layered under an open overshirt.
- Who it suitsMen who like textural detail and heritage styling, and those who layer often and want a tee with personality.
- When to wear itCasual weekends and creative settings — with jeans, under a light jacket, or beneath an open overshirt. The textured neck reads intentional even when very casual.
Textured placket, heritage character.
NECKLINE 05
Mandarin: The Minimal Choice
The most minimal option — a small, upright collar that sits close to the neck with no placket. Rooted in Asian menswear tradition, it reads clean, architectural, and distinctly modern. It isn't trying hard; it simply exists as a refined detail, and it looks especially deliberate on lean, athletic builds.
- Who it suitsMen confident in their style who appreciate minimalism, and anyone after something genuinely different from the usual tee.
- When to wear itCreative and fashion-aware settings, evening-casual and weekends — with tailored trousers or dark denim.
Minimal, upright, modern.
NECKLINE GUIDE
Choosing Your Neckline
- Start with CrewBuild your base in Crew necks in neutral colours — versatile, forgiving, and right everywhere. Add colours and fabrics in Crew before branching out.
- Add V-Neck for varietyOnce your Crew basics are solid, a V-Neck adds interest and reads slightly dressier — without demanding new styling skills.
- Then explore for personalityPolo, Henley, and Mandarin work best when you choose them intentionally. They are selections, not everyday defaults — reach for them when you want the t-shirt to contribute to the look rather than disappear.
The rule of thumb
Two of every neckline is plenty to learn your preference. Most men settle on Crew as their workhorse and keep one or two others for range. Browse all necklines and feel the difference.
Part Three
Sleeves: Half vs. Long
Sleeve length is practical and seasonal. Half sleeves are the summer standard — casual, breathable, and versatile. Long sleeves read a touch more formal and layer well in cooler months and air-conditioned rooms. In most of India, you'll wear half sleeves roughly 70% of the time and reach for long sleeves seasonally.
SLEEVE 01
Half Sleeves: The Everyday Standard
Half sleeves end at or just above the mid-upper arm — the classic t-shirt sleeve, and the picture most people have in mind. They are maximally versatile: they work with any neckline, fit, and fabric, read unambiguously casual, and stay comfortable through India's heat. Your default for everyday wear.
- When to wearWarm weather, casual settings, and everyday wear — appropriate nearly everywhere except formal or conservative business settings.
- Styling tipThe exposed forearm is an opening for a watch or bracelet — detail that long sleeves hide.
The everyday, all-weather workhorse.
SLEEVE 02
Long Sleeves: Layering & Polish
Long sleeves reach the wrist and read slightly more formal than half sleeves without needing a button-up. They shine as a layer — under open shirts, overshirts, and light jackets — and look sharp with the cuffs rolled. In a Comfort Fit, a long-sleeve tee creates a clean, intentional line for semi-formal settings.
- When to wearCooler months (roughly November to February), air-conditioned offices year-round, and evenings when you want more coverage and polish.
- Styling tipWear under an unbuttoned overshirt or minimalist jacket, or roll the cuffs for a casual-but-refined look.
Build both into your wardrobe
Start with half sleeves in your most-worn colours — your everyday base — then add long sleeves for cooler months and layering. In India's climate that split lands around 70% half sleeves, the rest long.
Layer-ready, a touch more formal.
Part Four
Fabrics: Cotton & Blends
Fabric is where a t-shirt lives or dies. It decides how the shirt feels against your skin, how it moves, how long it lasts, and how it ages. Three things drive quality: fibre quality (all Basics tees use combed cotton — softer, more durable, resists pilling), yarn count (we sit in the 20s–30s range for softness without excess cost), and weight in GSM (we use 160–170 GSM — heavy enough to last, light enough to breathe in India's climate).
FABRIC 01
100% Cotton: The Foundation
Pure cotton is what most men picture when they think of a t-shirt — breathable, soft, and made for warm weather. It lets air pass through, absorbs sweat instead of letting it cling, and grows softer with every wash. In India's heat and humidity, that breathability is non-negotiable. The trade-offs are honest: cotton wrinkles (part of its lived-in character) and shrinks a little on first wash — all our cotton is pre-shrunk, so with cool-water washing the change is minimal.
- Breathable & absorbentAir moves through it and moisture evaporates, so it feels fresh even when you sweat.
- Holds colour, ages wellCotton takes dye fully; wash cool (under 30°C) and it stays true for years, softening as it goes.
- Easy to care forCool water, mild detergent, low heat or line-dry. Forgiving of imperfect washing.
- Who it's forAnyone who values breathability and the classic tee feel — the safest first choice for a quality wardrobe.
Breathable, soft, the baseline choice.
FABRIC 02
Cotton Blends: Adding Performance
A blend mixes cotton with another fibre to add a property pure cotton lacks — trading a little breathability or hand-feel for a specific gain. Three matter for t-shirts:
- Cotton + Elastane (95/5)A touch of stretch that rebounds after you move, so the shirt holds its shape instead of sagging. Nearly as breathable as pure cotton and transformative for Comfort Fit — the tapered cut hugs without constraining. One rule: cool water and low heat only, or the elastane breaks down.
- Cotton + Polyester (80/20)Wrinkle-resistant, dries fast, and holds colour well even in warm-water washing. Slightly less breathable and a subtle sheen, but genuinely convenient — good for travel and busy weeks.
- Cotton + Viscose (85/15)Noticeably softer with an elegant drape and gentle lustre — the premium-feeling option for styled or semi-formal wear. In return it is more delicate and higher-maintenance: gentle wash, line-dry, handle carefully.
How to pick
Start with 100% cotton. Add a cotton-elastane for Comfort Fit and active days, a cotton-polyester for travel and wrinkle-free practicality, and a cotton-viscose for styled occasions. The goal is the right tool for each situation, not a single choice.
FABRIC 03
Seasonal Fabric Strategy for India
- Summer (April–June)Peak heat and humidity — go 100% cotton or cotton-elastane for maximum breathability and moisture absorption. Skip polyester and viscose in the worst of it; they can feel clingy.
- Monsoon (June–September)Constant dampness makes moisture management critical — 100% cotton stays best. Avoid slow-drying viscose; cotton-elastane is fine indoors in AC.
- Winter (October–March)Mild and dry — this is when cotton-polyester and cotton-viscose shine. Breathability matters less, so you can enjoy polyester's wrinkle resistance or viscose's softness without overheating.
- Year-round indoors (AC)Any fabric works in controlled temperatures. Cotton-viscose is especially good for semi-formal office settings — refined but still breathable.
FABRIC 04
Comparing Fabrics at a Glance
| Property | 100% Cotton | Cotton + Poly 80/20 | Cotton + Elastane 95/5 | Cotton + Viscose 85/15 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breathability | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | Very Good |
| Softness | Good | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Wrinkle Resistance | Low | High | Low | Low |
| Drying Speed | Slow | Fast | Moderate | Moderate |
| Shape Retention | Good | Very Good | Excellent | Good |
| Durability | 2–3 yrs | 3–4 yrs | 3–4 yrs | 2–3 yrs |
| Shrinkage | 3–5% | 1–2% | 3–5% | 5–7% |
| Care | Easy | Easy | Cool water only | Gentle wash |
| Best For | Daily wear, summer | Travel, wrinkle-free | Comfort Fit, active | Styled, premium feel |
Build a wardrobe, not a single choice
Ideally own tees across all four: pure cotton for summer and everyday, an elastane blend for Comfort Fit and active days, a polyester blend for travel and practicality, and a viscose blend for styled occasions. Explore every fabric.
Part Five
Colours & Patterns
A solid white tee is timeless; a navy one works with everything. But colour and pattern decide how often you actually reach for a shirt and how well it fits the rest of your wardrobe. Choose strategically, not just aesthetically — and always work from a neutral base outward.
COLOUR 01
Solids First: The Foundation
Solids pair with everything, work in every season, and never look dated. Build the neutral core first — think in terms of how often a colour actually gets worn:
- White — the most versatilePairs with nearly every bottom and layers under open shirts. Worn 2–3× a week; own 3–4. Wash cool, sun-dry to fight yellowing, and use oxygen bleach (never chlorine) if it dulls.
- Navy — the practical all-rounderReads a touch dressier than white and hides marks better. Worn 2–3× a week; own 2–3.
- Grey — the neutral neutralCasual and season-agnostic; medium grey is the most flattering. Own around 2.
- Black — bold, used strategicallyGreat for deliberately casual or all-black looks, heavier in summer, and it fades fastest — wash inside-out and cool. Own about 1.
Accent Colours
Once five-plus neutrals are established, add accents that match bottoms you already own — olive with khaki and denim, burgundy with navy and grey (a winter favourite), khaki or tan for warm summer contrast, and teal for a fashion-forward pop. Accents carry more visual weight, so buy the ones you are genuinely drawn to and can actually pair.
The versatility rule
A colour is only as good as the number of bottoms it pairs with. Neutrals earn their keep because they go with everything; accents reward you only when they match what is already in your wardrobe.
COLOUR 02
Patterns: Texture & Personality
A patterned tee carries more weight than a solid, so let it be the anchor and keep everything else neutral. Add patterns only after your solids are set:
- Stripes — classic & versatileThin, low-contrast stripes read refined; white-and-navy is the safest, most flexible combination. Pair with solid bottoms only.
- Prints — personal expressionScreen-printed graphics (which flex and last 50+ wears, unlike heat transfers) for weekends and creative settings. Keep bottoms simple, and only buy prints you genuinely connect with.
- Tie & Dye — unique & hand-craftedNo two identical; best in muted combinations (indigo and white, olive and cream). Distinctive, casual, and a nod to handcraft.
Build in three phases
Foundation (months 0–3): 5–8 neutral solids. Depth (months 3–6): one or two accent colours plus a striped tee. Personality (months 6+): one to three prints or tie & dye pieces you actually love. Build over time, and every piece earns its place. Start your rotation.
Part Six
Building Your Collection
How many t-shirts do you need? More than you think, but far fewer than impulse buying suggests. The aim is enough pieces to rotate without running out, but not so many that some never get worn — and building the right mix, not just the right number.
COLLECTION 01
The Math of Rotation
Survival math is simple: wash weekly and wear one tee a day, and you need at least seven. But strategic math is better. The sweet spot for most men is 12–16 t-shirts — enough to go two-plus weeks without repeating, enough variety to build intentional outfits, and enough rotation that each piece lasts longer. Own five whites worn 2–3× a week and each is used once a fortnight; own one white worn daily and it wears out fast. Rotation extends lifespan.
- Minimal (8–10)You wash 2–3× a week and don't mind repeating. Simple, but pieces wear faster — expect 18–24 months each.
- Standard (12–14)Wash weekly, never repeat within a week, ideal for most men. Each piece lasts 2–3 years.
- Expanded (16–20)Wash every two weeks or want maximum flexibility. Longest per-piece lifespan; more space and spend.
COLLECTION 02
The 12-Shirt Standard
Building from scratch? This mix covers every category and maximises value:
- Crew Neck basics — 42 white, 1 navy, 1 grey. The most versatile neckline; start here.
- V-Neck basics — 21 white, 1 navy. Slightly dressier, easy variety.
- Accent colours — 21 olive (if you own khaki bottoms), 1 burgundy or teal by preference and season.
- Patterns — 21 striped (white and navy), 1 print or tie & dye for personality.
- Seasonal add-ons — 2Light grey or khaki for summer, black or a second burgundy for winter — or simply duplicate your most-worn basics.
The value-pack advantage
Value Packs bundle three tees in complementary colours (same fit, neckline, and fabric) at roughly 25–30% off the single price — the fastest, most economical way to build your Phase 1 foundation, since most men want several core basics anyway. Build over 3–6 months so you can test fit and fabric before committing to multiples. Shop t-shirts and value packs.
Part Seven
Care & Durability
A quality t-shirt lasts 2–3 years with proper care, or barely one with poor care — and the difference isn't luck, it's washing, drying, and storage. Three things damage tees: heat, agitation, and chemical additives. Minimise all three and a simple shirt outlasts your expectations.
The golden rule
Wash in cool water. Dry on low heat or line-dry. Skip bleach and fabric softener. Follow that for any t-shirt, whatever the fibre, and it will look good far longer.
Washing
Cool water (under 30°C) is ideal for every tee — it lifts dirt and sweat without weakening fibres or releasing dye. Heat opens the fabric structure, so hot-water washing fades, shrinks, and wears shirts faster; a white washed cool stays bright for two years, while the same shirt in hot water yellows by month twelve. Wash after 2–3 casual wears rather than every wear (air tees out between wears to stretch the gap), use mild detergent at half the recommended dose, run a gentle cycle, turn prints and darks inside-out, and sort by colour. Don't overload the drum — clothes need room to move.
Drying
Drying decides half the remaining lifespan. Line-drying is best: zero heat damage, zero energy, colours stay vibrant, and it is practical year-round in India (sun-dry whites; shade-dry colours to protect them). If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat and pull shirts out slightly damp. Never use high heat — it is the single biggest cause of premature t-shirt failure, and the twenty minutes it saves cost you months of garment life.
Storage
Fold for long-term storage; hanging stretches shoulder seams over months, especially in humid weather (rotation pieces you wear weekly are fine on a hanger). Keep tees in a cool, dry, dark drawer or shelf — not near windows. In India's humidity, add silica gel or activated charcoal to drawers, avoid airtight plastic containers, and don't overpack: air needs to move between pieces to keep mildew away.
Care by Fabric
- 100% Cotton
- Cool water, line-dry or low heat. Sun-dry whites to counter yellowing.
- Cotton-Polyester
- Most forgiving — tolerates warm water and low-heat drying; fades and shrinks least.
- Cotton-Elastane
- Cool water is mandatory; line-dry or lowest heat. High heat kills the stretch in months.
- Cotton-Viscose
- Most delicate — gentle cycle, cool water, line-dry, never wring hard when wet.
The Seven Rules
- 1 · Cool waterWash under 30°C, whatever the fibre.
- 2 · Mild detergentHalf the recommended amount — residue degrades fibres.
- 3 · Gentle & sortedGentle cycle, inside-out, sorted by colour.
- 4 · Wash lessAfter 2–3 wears, not every wear; air out between.
- 5 · Dry lowLine-dry when you can; low heat only in a dryer.
- 6 · Store dryFolded, in a cool, dry, dark place.
- 7 · NeverHot water, high heat, bleach, or fabric softener.
Why care pays
A ₹700 tee cared for properly lasts three years (about ₹233 a year); the same shirt abused lasts one (₹700 a year). Across a 12-shirt rotation, good habits save thousands over three years — care isn't a detail, it's the difference between a wardrobe that lasts and one that doesn't.
Part Eight
Size Charts
Measure yourself in a t-shirt that already fits well, then compare against these charts — every one shows both inches and centimetres. If you fall between sizes, size up (a slightly loose shirt beats a tight one), but match the shoulder measurement closely.
How to Measure
- ShoulderAcross the back, from the top of one shoulder bone to the other. This decides whether the seams sit in the right place.
- ChestAround the fullest part of the chest, tape parallel to the ground and not too tight.
- LengthFrom the top of the shoulder straight down to the hem — this tells you where the shirt ends.
- WaistAround the narrowest part of the torso, usually 1–2 inches above the belt line.
Comfort Fit
Comfort Fit is tailored to follow the body, offered in XS–XXXL. Each neckline has its own chart below, and Henley is offered in both half and full sleeve using the same body measurements.
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 38 | 16.25 | 24.75 | 20 | 15.25 |
| S / 39 | 17.75 | 25.5 | 21 | 16.25 |
| M / 40 | 18.75 | 26.25 | 22 | 17.25 |
| L / 42 | 20 | 27 | 23 | 18.25 |
| XL / 44 | 21.25 | 27.75 | 24.25 | 19.5 |
| XXL / 46 | 22.25 | 28.5 | 25.75 | 21 |
| XXXL / 48 | 23.5 | 29.5 | 27 | 22.25 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 38 | 41.3 | 62.9 | 50.8 | 38.7 |
| S / 39 | 45.1 | 64.8 | 53.3 | 41.3 |
| M / 40 | 47.6 | 66.7 | 55.9 | 43.8 |
| L / 42 | 50.8 | 68.6 | 58.4 | 46.4 |
| XL / 44 | 54 | 70.5 | 61.6 | 49.5 |
| XXL / 46 | 56.5 | 72.4 | 65.4 | 53.3 |
| XXXL / 48 | 59.7 | 74.9 | 68.6 | 56.5 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 38 | 13 | 24.75 | 35.25 | 33.75 |
| S / 39 | 14.5 | 26 | 37.5 | 36 |
| M / 40 | 15.75 | 27 | 40 | 38.5 |
| L / 42 | 16.75 | 27.75 | 42.25 | 40.75 |
| XL / 44 | 18 | 28.5 | 44.75 | 43.25 |
| XXL / 46 | 19.5 | 29 | 47 | 45.5 |
| XXXL / 48 | 20.75 | 29.75 | 48.5 | 47.75 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 38 | 33 | 62.9 | 89.5 | 85.7 |
| S / 39 | 36.8 | 66 | 95.2 | 91.4 |
| M / 40 | 40 | 68.6 | 101.6 | 97.8 |
| L / 42 | 42.5 | 70.5 | 107.3 | 103.5 |
| XL / 44 | 45.7 | 72.4 | 113.7 | 109.9 |
| XXL / 46 | 49.5 | 73.7 | 119.4 | 115.6 |
| XXXL / 48 | 52.7 | 75.6 | 123.2 | 121.3 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 38 | 13 | 24.75 | 35.25 | 33.75 |
| S / 39 | 14 | 26 | 37.5 | 36 |
| M / 40 | 15.5 | 27 | 40 | 38.5 |
| L / 42 | 16.5 | 27.75 | 42.25 | 40.75 |
| XL / 44 | 18 | 28.5 | 44.75 | 43.25 |
| XXL / 46 | 19.5 | 29 | 47 | 45.5 |
| XXXL / 48 | 20.75 | 29.75 | 48.5 | 47.75 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 38 | 33 | 62.9 | 89.5 | 85.7 |
| S / 39 | 35.6 | 66 | 95.2 | 91.4 |
| M / 40 | 39.4 | 68.6 | 101.6 | 97.8 |
| L / 42 | 41.9 | 70.5 | 107.3 | 103.5 |
| XL / 44 | 45.7 | 72.4 | 113.7 | 109.9 |
| XXL / 46 | 49.5 | 73.7 | 119.4 | 115.6 |
| XXXL / 48 | 52.7 | 75.6 | 123.2 | 121.3 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 38 | 13 | 24.75 | 35.25 | 33.75 |
| S / 39 | 14.5 | 26 | 37.5 | 36 |
| M / 40 | 15.75 | 27 | 40 | 38.5 |
| L / 42 | 16.75 | 27.75 | 42.25 | 40.75 |
| XL / 44 | 18 | 28.5 | 44.75 | 43.25 |
| XXL / 46 | 19.5 | 29 | 47 | 45.5 |
| XXXL / 48 | 20.75 | 29.75 | 48.5 | 47.75 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 38 | 33 | 62.9 | 89.5 | 85.7 |
| S / 39 | 36.8 | 66 | 95.2 | 91.4 |
| M / 40 | 40 | 68.6 | 101.6 | 97.8 |
| L / 42 | 42.5 | 70.5 | 107.3 | 103.5 |
| XL / 44 | 45.7 | 72.4 | 113.7 | 109.9 |
| XXL / 46 | 49.5 | 73.7 | 119.4 | 115.6 |
| XXXL / 48 | 52.7 | 75.6 | 123.2 | 121.3 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 38 | 13.25 | 24.75 | 35.25 | 33.75 |
| S / 39 | 15 | 26 | 37.5 | 36 |
| M / 40 | 16 | 27 | 40 | 38.5 |
| L / 42 | 17.25 | 27.75 | 42.25 | 40.75 |
| XL / 44 | 18.5 | 28.5 | 44.75 | 43.25 |
| XXL / 46 | 19.75 | 29 | 47 | 45.5 |
| XXXL / 48 | 21 | 29.75 | 48.5 | 47.75 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS / 38 | 33.7 | 62.9 | 89.5 | 85.7 |
| S / 39 | 38.1 | 66 | 95.2 | 91.4 |
| M / 40 | 40.6 | 68.6 | 101.6 | 97.8 |
| L / 42 | 43.8 | 70.5 | 107.3 | 103.5 |
| XL / 44 | 47 | 72.4 | 113.7 | 109.9 |
| XXL / 46 | 50.2 | 73.7 | 119.4 | 115.6 |
| XXXL / 48 | 53.3 | 75.6 | 123.2 | 121.3 |
Relaxed Fit
Relaxed Fit is a looser, roomier silhouette, offered in S–XL. Choose your sleeve length below.
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S / 39 | 19.5 | 27.5 | 20.75 | 20.375 |
| M / 40 | 20.25 | 28.5 | 22 | 21.625 |
| L / 42 | 21 | 29.75 | 23 | 22.625 |
| XL / 44 | 21.75 | 31 | 24.25 | 23.875 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S / 39 | 49.5 | 69.8 | 52.7 | 51.8 |
| M / 40 | 51.4 | 72.4 | 55.9 | 54.9 |
| L / 42 | 53.3 | 75.6 | 58.4 | 57.5 |
| XL / 44 | 55.2 | 78.7 | 61.6 | 60.6 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S / 39 | 22.75 | 28.25 | 22.75 | 20.75 |
| M / 40 | 23.5 | 29 | 24 | 22 |
| L / 42 | 24.25 | 29.75 | 25 | 23 |
| XL / 44 | 25 | 30.25 | 26.25 | 24.5 |
| Size | Shoulder | Length | Chest | Waist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S / 39 | 57.8 | 71.8 | 57.8 | 52.7 |
| M / 40 | 59.7 | 73.7 | 61 | 55.9 |
| L / 42 | 61.6 | 75.6 | 63.5 | 58.4 |
| XL / 44 | 63.5 | 76.8 | 66.7 | 62.2 |
The Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Comfort Fit is tapered through the chest and waist — it follows your frame for a fitted, tailored look. Relaxed Fit is cut fuller and nearly straight through the body for maximum ease. Neither is "better": choose Comfort Fit for a sharp, contoured silhouette, and Relaxed Fit for a looser, comfort-first feel. Many men own both.
Don't guess from your "usual size" — brands vary, and Comfort Fit sizes differently from Relaxed Fit. Measure yourself in a t-shirt that fits you well, then compare shoulder, chest, length, and waist to our size charts. If you're between sizes, size up, but match the shoulder measurement closely.
Not automatically. Comfort Fit is tailored to follow your body, not to be oversized — if you measure an M, wear an M. If it feels tight across the chest or shoulders once you try it, then move up to L. But don't size up pre-emptively; try your measured size first.
Minimally, if you follow the care guidelines. All our tees are pre-shrunk, so expect only 1–2% shrinkage per wash in cool water with low heat. Wash in hot water or high-heat dry and you may see 3–5%. Cool water (under 30°C) keeps shrinkage negligible.
It depends on your priority. 100% cotton is the most breathable and the safest first choice. Cotton-elastane adds stretch and shape retention for Comfort Fit. Cotton-polyester resists wrinkles and dries fast. Cotton-viscose feels premium and soft. Start with cotton if unsure.
They do, though cotton long sleeves feel a little warmer. In India's summer heat most men prefer half sleeves, but long sleeves are great indoors in AC, on cooler evenings, and for sun protection. Choose by context, not season alone.
Cool water is best for every fabric. 100% cotton and cotton-viscose need it to avoid fading and shrinkage, and cotton-elastane must be washed cool or the stretch degrades. Cotton-polyester is the most tolerant of warm water. If warm water is unavoidable, choose cotton-polyester and accept some gradual fading.
No. High heat is the number-one cause of premature t-shirt failure — it fades colours, weakens fibres, and permanently degrades elastane and viscose. The twenty minutes it saves costs you months of garment life. Line-dry, or use the lowest dryer heat only.
Sweat, deodorant residue, and iron in the water react with fibres over time. Prevent it by washing after 2–3 wears, using deodorant (not antiperspirant), and washing cool. To treat it, soak in oxygen bleach (like OxiClean) for 1–4 hours, then wash and line-dry in sunlight. Never use chlorine bleach — it weakens the fibres permanently.
With proper care — cool water, low heat, gentle cycles — 2–3 years of regular wear. With poor care, roughly one year. The difference is almost entirely how you wash and dry. Replace a tee when it fades badly, thins at the armpits or shoulders, the print cracks, or it loses its shape.
Yes. A pack of three works out to roughly 25–30% less per shirt than buying singles, and most men need several core basics anyway. They're the most economical way to build your Phase 1 foundation. Browse t-shirts and value packs.
Yes. We offer exchanges within 30 days of purchase for unworn, unwashed items in original packaging. Contact our support team with your order number and preferred size, and we'll arrange the exchange at no extra cost.
Every fit, neckline, and fabric is available online at basicslife.com and across 123+ Basics stores in South India. Our store staff can help you feel each fabric and try on both fits, so you can choose what works for your climate and body.