These Are the 15 Best Long-Sleeved Shirts for Layering

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Stylists and fashion editors alike will confirm that the best T-shirts are essential parts of a well-rounded wardrobe. Often, they're a crucial piece that can make an outfit really come together. And even if they're not the focal point of a look, you can layer them under your favorite sweaters and sweatshirts. Of course, everyone needs variations on the classic, short-sleeved style in their closet—which is where the just as essential long sleeve t-shirt comes in.

Writer and brand consultant Laurel Pantin notoriously loves a good t-shirt, and when she is shopping for the best long sleeve tee, she always considers how she'll style it. “If I'm looking for a layering piece, I usually try to find something lightweight or tissue-weight in an interesting color to contrast with the neutrals and navy I usually wear on top,” she tells BAZAAR. “I like something that will add visual interest and a little warmth without bulk, or without causing wrinkles under whatever I'm layering it under.” 100% cotton is always a good idea for T-shirt fabrication, but a layering tee can also have a little spandex or elastane, depending on how fitted you prefer, or modal blend for softness.

Alternatively, if your long-sleeved shirt will be seen, Pantin believes it's a good idea to invest in a different cut than the slimmer, layering tees. “If I'm going to wear it on its own, I usually like something with wider sleeves and a boxy body, and typically a boat neck or crew neck,” she says. “I generally don't like fitted tops on their own, but I love how a slouchy, boxy long sleeve shirt looks tucked into wide-leg, slouchy trousers.” This is generally where you want to look for full cotton content, as well. If you're looking for a more modest look, you'll probably want a thicker material that can lend itself to creating more oversized silhouettes.

When researching for the very best long sleeve t-shirts out there, we considered every type—from the super sheer to the heavyweight variety—in crewnecks, v-necks, and scoop necks. Below, find our 15 favorite.

The Supima Form Ballet Neck Tee

If you fancy a scoop neckline, Everlane's version will be your new go-to. Made from super soft, Supima cotton, this particular yarn has a longer fiber length, so it's more durable and smoother to the touch. A little elastane gives a nice stretch to this form fitting silhouette, too. The neckline is actually inspired by ballerina leotards, so you'll get to shows off just the right amount of clavicle. Tuck into your favorite bottoms and pair with hoop earrings for a clean look.

What reviewers said: "Comfortable and flattering with great stretch! Nice scoop neckline without being too low. More colors, please and thank you!"

Sizes: XXS–XL

Material: 92% Supima cotton, 8% elastane

Colors: Black, white

Long Sleeve T-shirt

With over 1,000 rave reviews, the long sleeve T-shirt from Skims is a real customer hit. Made from a stretchy, jersey cotton fabrication, it has a skin-tight fit that hugs close to the body. Whether this crewneck tee is worn as is or tucked into a high-waisted bottom, or layered underneath a chunky sweater or oversized blazer, you'll get plenty of wear per week. The styling possibilities are endless.

What reviewers said: "I wear this multiple times a week. After washing, I hang dry it rather than use the dryer and it really helps hold its shape. I got an XS but usually wear a small. I’m 5’7, length is great, sleeve length is amazing, my chest is larger and it fits great around the girls, not see through with the right bra! Love it!"

Sizes: XXS–4X

Material: 90% cotton, 10% spandex

Colors: Bone, marble, light heather gray, mineral kyanite, soot, and limited editions

Regular-Fit Heavyweight Long-Sleeved T-shirt

Laurel Pantin recommends this crewneck from Cos as one of her favorites. "This one is excellent—a nice, heavyweight cotton with a boxy body and fitted sleeves," she says.

The hem is slightly cropped, giving it a loose, square shape. The wider, neck rib gives this tee a slightly retro feel that works well with the roomier silhouette. It's also made from organic cotton, meaning non-genetically modified seeds are grown without chemical fertilizers or pesticides to create the sustainable fabric. Tuck in and add a belt to play with proportions.

Sizes: XS–L

Material: 100% organic cotton

Colors: Dark gray, white, black, beige/undyed, navy, black/white/striped

Modern V-Neck T-Shirt

You can always rely on Gap for everyday basics, like this simple, V-neck. Made from a cotton modal blend, it's soft and lightweight. It also has a straight, relaxed fit that feels comfortable and doesn't hug the body too tightly. Whether paired with worn-in denim and sneakers on the weekend, or a high-waisted trouser pant for your 9-5, you're sure to live in this one.

What customers are saying: "These are the best fitting Ts ever, they stay put and don't creep up. They are soft, and flattering regardless of your build. They wash and wear wonderfully, no shrinking, distorting or fading. Please, never stop making these!"

Sizes: XXS–XXL regular, S–XXL tall, XS–L petite

Material: 58% cotton, 39% birla modal, 3% spandex

Colors: White, navy, heather grey, black

Essential Long-Sleeve Crewneck Tee

Vince's long-sleeved T-shirt is called "the essential" for good reason. It's a beloved, customer-favorite, thanks to the relaxed fit and soft 100% pima cotton material. The fabric is thin and breathable enough to wear in all seasons, whether thrown on over a swimsuit for sun coverage or layered under sweaters during a snowy day.

What reviewers said: "I saw this Vince long sleeve t-shirt online. Even as I was purchasing it I was wondering why anyone, myself included, would spend so much money on a t-shirt. It became a staple of my wardrobe as soon as it arrived. I bought it again to give as a gift, and soon I will purchase another for myself. It is lightweight so it can be worn in summer, but can be worn comfortably in winter too."

Sizes: XXS–XL

Material: 100% pima cotton

Colors: Black, white, gray

Wundermost Crewneck Long-Sleeve Shirt

We all know Lululemon for their high-quality activewear and fitness gear, but their Wundermost line of basics is all about everyday wear. The collection of comfortable tops, bras, and bodysuits is made from a variation on their Nulu fabric, the soft, stretchy material the best-selling Align legging is made from.

The long-sleeve crewneck had a double-layer body for full coverage and support, a little Lycra for stretch, and sweat-wicking properties to keep you cool.

What reviewers said: "I tried this on just for fun but ended up purchasing because I never felt a better quality smooth fitting long sleeve ever. This is the best when you’re looking for a basic top that is fitting and wraps around you like an absolute glove. I recommend 100x."

Sizes: XS–XL

Material: 79% nylon, 21% Lycra® elastane

Colors: Espresso, bone, black, storm teal

Max Organic-Cotton Jersey Top

Amsterdam-based brand Flore Flore only launched in 2021, but has already developed a fashion cult following, due to their quality basics and sustainable approach. "I really love Flore Flore for a slightly luxurious tee," Pantin says. "The cotton is beautiful and has a nice stretch, but doesn't feel stretchy. It holds its shape well after a wash, and just feels very well-made." You can find all the classic colors—black, off-white, and navy—and rich hues, like cornflower blue or a dusty pink.

Sizes: XS–XL

Material: 100% organic cotton

Colors: Blue, black, off white, navy, pink

Boyfriend Tee

Striped tees are the bread and butter for New York-based brand Kule. It's only fitting that its take on a long-sleeved T-shirt is that of the nautical variety. "This one is a nice middle ground between flimsy and sturdy," Pantin says. "I usually size up in this to make it even slouchier." Made with 100% cotton, the drop shoulder and roomy body feel like the best, oversized T-shirt you've ever had. Pair with jeans for a casual, everyday look or denim cut-offs for an easy, vacation time look.

Sizes: XS–XXL

Material: 100% cotton

Colors: Navy/cream, cream/navy, black/cream, white/royal blue, white/true blue/poppy

Long Sleeve Cotton Modal Top

Stylist Chloé Bartoli created Éterne in 2020, after feeling the fashion industry lacked timeless, well-made essentials. The brand focuses on fit and quality and their T-shirts are pretty unparalleled. The buttery soft, ribbed texture gives it a form fitting and flattering look. If you favor a cropped fit, look no further. Pair this with everything from leather pants and pencil skirts to wide-leg jeans and suiting.

Sizes: XS–XL

Material: 50% cotton, 50% modal

Colors: Grey, white, black

Surplus Rib L/S Crew

Buck Mason strives to create modern, American classics with timeless appeal, backed by extensive research. One of our absolute favorites is their surplus rib crewneck. Featuring a slim, fitted shape, the cotton material has a 2x2 rib that adds a bit of texture to the garment as well as some thickness, so it won't be transparent. We recommend tucking it into jeans, trousers, or even a denim mini skirt, for a polished effect.

Sizes: XS–XXL

Material: 90% cotton, 10% spandex

Colors: Marled bronze, marled coastal cedar, marled flint, black, white

Off-White Crewneck Long Sleeve T-Shirt

A semi-sheer T-shirt can be extremely hot and no one knows that better than Swedish label Bite Studios. Bite Studios focuses on sustainable elements and production processes, which is why its ribbed tee is made from organic cotton. The transparency is ideal for layering—try it under camisoles and slip dresses, or wear as is and play with a lacy bra underneath for when you want to show off a little more skin. We also love the extra-long sleeves, for that effortless, scrunched-up look.

Sizes: XS–XL

Material: 100% cotton

Colors: Off white, black, brown, purple

1x1 Long Sleeve Turtleneck

We consider a turtleneck T-shirt an essential in the long-sleeved category. In our opinion, Splendid makes the best, thanks to a 50/50 blend of cotton and modal that is soft and breathable. It can be layered under chunky sweaters for the coldest days in winter, or worn as a stand alone piece, tucked into a favorite pair of jeans or a plaid mini skirt in the fall. While it's always available in black and white, we'd recommend scooping up the special color way each season to mix things up.

What reviewers said: "I have ordered a lot of things from Splendid, and have not been disappointed. This turtleneck is very soft and comfortable and fits perfectly. It is a great addition to any wardrobe to either wear with jeans, dressy pants or a skirt. I highly recommend this turtleneck."

Sizes: XXS–XXL

Material: 50% cotton, 50% modal

Colors: Black, white, gravel heather gray, olive green, off white, ruby, charcoal

Slub Cotton-Jersey T-shirt

You can't talk about great t-shirts without talking about James Perse. High-quality basics have always been at the core of this Los Angeles-based company. Its long sleeve crewneck is lightly relaxed in fit and made from slub cotton-jersey, which has an uneven texture that gives it a unique appearance. Try layering over a longer, contrast tank and denim maxi skirt for a '00s-inspired styling take that feels very of-the-moment.

What reviewers said: "Love this tee. Very soft."

Sizes: 0–4 (XS–XL)

Material: 100% cotton

Colors: Forest green, gray, white, black

Slub Relaxed Long-Sleeve Tee

Every wonder how those street style models always look so effortlessly chic? The secret is a relaxed T-shirt. This Madewell style falls somewhere between an oversized and fitted silhouette, designed with a drop sleeve for extra movement. Two little slits in the front make this one ok to leave untucked too. You can't go wrong, it'll look great both ways.

What reviewers said: "This long sleeve is super comfortable and flows so well. I love how I can dress it up with a blazer and it still looks chic."

Sizes: XXS–XL; 1X–4X

Material: 100% organic cotton

Colors: Black, white, faded fern

Wide-Sleeved Top

If you like to experiment with silhouettes, Cos's wide-sleeve top is a must buy. "This one is great," Pantin recommends. "It has wider sleeves, and is also a nice mid-weight." The boxier cut even has slits along the side, for more movement and volume. Play with the classic black and white iterations for everyday styling or try the teal for an unexpected hit of color. We recommend tucking it into baggier silhouettes on bottom to balance proportions, or wear it overtop a stovepipe trouser or skinny leg pant for a retro twist.

Sizes: XS–L

Material: 91% cotton, 9% elastane

Colors: White, black, teal

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