I’m a Former T

It checks all the boxes for a perfect basic.

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As a former fashion designer, I spent four years specializing in tees and tanks. From sourcing the fabric to ensuring the fit is just right, I did it all. You may think it's simple to create an everyday T-shirt, but many factors go into crafting the perfect basic. I have purchased T-shirts that cost more than $30 and others as low as $10, but I look for the same elements before buying: The fabric has to be soft and non-irritating, breathable, and substantial in weight so it's not see-through. As for fit, it shouldn't be too tight or baggy, with a length that hits right at my hip and a uniform neck hole that fits over my head. And out of all the expensive tees I’ve gotten my hands on, this $8 Hanes Perfect T-Shirt on Amazon checks all of those boxes.

The 100 percent ring-spun cotton tee comes pre-shrunk, making the fabric lightweight and true-to-size, even after the first wash. The ribbed, crewneck collar offers ample stretch that allows the tee to be easily taken on and off without warping, and contoured side seams make for a sleek, slim fit. The short sleeve is available in 20 colors and sizes small to 5X-large.

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Shop now: $8 (Originally $12); amazon.com

My experience with this classic-fit tee is that it's just that, a classic. As a white tee aficionado, I find myself reaching for this neutral Hanes option to wear along with my favorite pair of Levi's on any given day. I’m very particular about the shade of white not leaning yellow, and I find this to be the perfect hue — though I also own it in gray. I purchased a small, hoping the tee would fit true to its designed shape, and it does just that; it offers some shaping at the waist, so it doesn't appear boxy, but if you want something that's more oversized, I'd size up. It's length hits right at the hip, which makes it perfect for tucking into bottoms without excess bunching.

Amazon shoppers are also raving about this being a staple, everyday tee; the Hanes short sleeve has 27,000+ five-star ratings and 2,400 reviews. One five-star reviewer stated, "It has a bit of shape to it without being too snug across the belly, and the length is perfect." Another shopper wore her Hanes tee in 88-degree humidity, but still found it to be "very light and breathable." A final reviewer noted that "the T-shirt is very well-made and the material is soft and substantial (not at all see-through). It's a good product for the price."

A crewneck tee is a wardrobe must-have, and this $8 Hanes Perfect T-Shirt from Amazon is top quality.