Summer undershirts: our tips on materials & cuts

In autumn and winter, an undershirt is an integral part of your everyday wardrobe. Women, in particular, benefit from warming bodywear that covers their kidneys, thereby protecting them from cystitis. Men, on the other hand, primarily wear undershirts under their business shirts, most of which are not warm enough during the cold weather and feel uncomfortable directly next to their skin.

So there is a lot to be said for undershirts in winter – but what about in summer? Here too, we strongly recommend an undershirt! Firstly, the additional layer of fabric next to your body can absorb perspiration before it becomes visible on your clothing. Secondly, undershirts made from natural materials regulate your body temperature, thereby ensuring greater comfort and reduced perspiration, even in stressful situations or at smarter events that require a certain dress code.

We explain what you need to consider regarding the cut and colour of your summer undershirt and how the temperature-regulating properties of natural materials can help you feel comfortable even in hot weather.

Natural materials such as cotton, silk and wool are the perfect choice for undershirts all year round, as they are great at regulating your body temperature: while natural fibres are warm and cosy in winter, they are nice and cool in summer, absorbing moisture when you perspire.

Some materials are thinner and lighter than others: pure silk undershirts are particularly comfortable in summer, for example, as they are as cool and light as gossamer on your skin. And although wool is often associated with cold outdoor temperatures, a high-quality undershirt made of wool and silk ensures a uniquely balanced temperature, less perspiration and total comfort, both in the midday heat and on a cool summer evening.

If you choose traditional, popular cotton for your summer undershirt, pay attention to the processing and heaviness of the fabric: undershirts made of cotton in smooth jersey quality are lighter and thinner, yet still absorb moisture extremely reliably. These cotton undershirts are therefore better suited to summer than thicker double or fine rib undershirts.

Your choice of cut for your summer undershirt primarily depends on the outer clothing you want to wear over the top. Men often opt for tight business underwear, as this doesn’t become wrinkled under a traditional shirt or suit. If you prefer to be a bit cooler and your top is neither close-fitting nor transparent, wider-cut undershirts will ensure comfortable breathability.

In the case of see-through blouses or shirts, you should choose a skin-coloured undershirt or one that matches the colour of your top. However, in the case of opaque tops that are not see-through, summer undershirts should be lightly coloured rather than dark or black. The latter directly absorb heat and can also make you perspire.

As well as the cut and colour, both men and women should also select the correct length to ensure that their undershirt doesn’t slip out of their trousers. While men may make a fashion faux-pas at best if their undershirt is too short, women should also choose a slightly longer undershirt in summer. Covering your kidneys can prevent a nasty bladder infection and can stop you catching a cold, especially when the temperature drops in the evening.

To avoid sweat stains on clothing, it is also good if your undershirt armholes are not too wide. If your undershirt reaches your armpits, any perspiration is directly absorbed without becoming visible on your T-shirt, top, etc. Of course, your undershirt should not be overly tight either. So if you are able to wear any clothing you like, a combination of a loose-fitting top and a more close-fitting undershirt made of thin cotton or silk is therefore ideal for avoiding visible sweat stains.

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