Low, Medium, High | Long-Sleeve Tee Adventures
Quite a few years ago, I bought a bunch of long-sleeved t-shirts from Lands' End on clearance at the end of winter (My winter uniform is jeans, a long-sleeve tee, and a hoodie.)
The shirts have held up nicely, but since I bought them all at the same time, they all started wearing out at the same time too!
So last fall, I bought two shirts at Target ($).
Then more recently I bought some clearance tees from Lands' End ($$).
Annnnd I got one long-sleeve tee from American Giant ($$$).
These represent three different price ranges, so I thought a little rundown would be helpful.
Also: fashion is just fun, and I always love seeing real people try things on!
Sooo, I took a bunch of pictures with the help of my phone camera timer.
Target shirts
I bought two shirts from Target; a ribbed one:
And a red boxy one:
I like the price and the fit of these shirts, but the quality is just not there.
The fabric is pretty lightweight, the finishing details are not very good, and the stitching on the sleeve hems of both shirts has already started coming undone.
Lands' End tees
I hadn't shopped at Lands' End for quite a few years, and when I logged on, I was surprised to see that they have switched to using computer-generated models for their clothes, and guys, I DO NOT LIKE THIS.
It gives me weird vibes, like I've entered a cheaply-animated film. Or a Sims game.
I understand that it cuts costs and that it made sense because of the pandemic but my goodness, I think it's a terrible business decision to continue this practice.
Nope, nope, NOPE.
Nonetheless, I ordered a few tops for myself; the prices varied depending on the color, so everything I got was between $12 and $23.
The tees I got are heavy cotton, and the construction is definitely better than my Target tees.
And since I got them on end-of-season clearance, the prices are comparable to Target.
The downside is that the Lands' End styles are rather plain; you don't usually find anything super fun and trendy in the Lands' End lineup.
But for basic, sturdy tees, I think their offerings are good. Also, Lands' End offers plus sizes, unlike American Giant.
Speaking of....
American Giant long-sleeve v-neck slub knit tee
I've written about American Giant before; they're a company that makes clothing entirely in the U.S., from seed to garment.
High quality, high prices.
(Also: fair pay for employees = higher prices.)
I have the v-neck slub knit tee ($60, or $52.50 when you buy two) and it IS a really high-quality shirt; definitely the most heavy-duty out of this whole post's worth of tees.
One of my Lands' End tees has already twisted a little bit, but my American Giant shirts don't do that. Lands' End is good quality; American Giant is excellent quality.
The American Giant fabric is thick, the seams are reinforced, and the cuffs are nice and stretchy (which means that when you push up your sleeves, they stay pushed up!)
You can fold over the cuff if you want a shorter cuff experience.
Also, it's a generous length; I have a very long torso and I can put both arms over my head without showing my stomach.
As with Lands' End, you'll typically find very basic t-shirt styles at American Giant.
This makes sense, honestly; if you are buying a $60 shirt, you're doing so with the idea that it will last for years.
And that means you wouldn't really want the trendy, novelty styles because then the shirt would go out of style before it wore out.
My favorite way to buy American Giant shirts is to look in their Last Chance section, where they are clearing out styles/colors. Right now, the premium slub tee that I have is available there for $40, in two colors: cream, and mossy green.
The Last Chance items are final sale, though, just so you know.
If it helps you at all with sizing, I'd say that American Giant items run slightly on the large side; the shirt I'm wearing is a small, and I probably could fit fine into an extra-small (which is not my usual size).
In conclusion
Target wins for:
- price
- trendiness
Lands' End wins for:
- quality (at least, far above Target)
- price (if you snag clearance items)
American Giant wins for:
- quality (above and beyond Lands' End)
- ethical purchasing (it is the extreme opposite of cheap fast fashion)
I kept messing up the timer when I was trying to take these photos; taking pictures of yourself is hard! I don't know how fashion bloggers keep this up day in and day out.
Here are some self-timer bloopers, in which I am consistently serious and/or like I have an attitude. 😉
This concludes my t-shirt review!
And a review of the green hoodie dress is forthcoming. 😉
Good post Kristen. I would always go for the excellent quality. The ethical aspect is sooo important in my eyes. Besides, if you ask me, the high quality shirt looks very good on you!
Wait—the American Giant shirts run LARGE? I bought some sweatshirts partially because of you. Had to try small (barely fits my 100-pound teen), medium (fits her), and finally large, which fits me, 160 pound 50-year-old woman. And if my arms or breast get bigger, the large won’t fit. I usually wear a small!
Hmm, well, now that you mention it, I do feel like their actual sweatshirts are not as roomy as the tshirts. My size small sweatshirts fit me more snugly than my size small tshirts.
I’ve never bought Land’s End items that weren’t for the outdoors (all of which seem immortal—great quality coats and gloves), so this was very helpful—thank you!
I’d also like to give a shout to ThredUp.com as a source of higher quality clothing items for less. I found a GAP V-neck t-shirt at Goodwill ages ago and fell in love with the thickness of the fabric and the fit, but no way am I paying $40+ for a shirt. I will pay $5-10 for a gently used one, though, which is how I have my favorite shirt in all my colors. I’ll have to add American Giant to my list of brands to hunt for on ThredUp.
@N, I've been using Thredup for years, but I don't think I can anymore. The website seems to be running slow and glitching on me now. I have to buy so MUCH, and search for so much (4 kids+me), that the last time I timed out and lost everything in the cart because I had gone over the hour time limit to save the items I had put in my cart. So frustrating.
@kristin @ going country, so the glitching wasn’t just me! Good to know. I’ve partially bypassed the glitches by having the items in my cart opened in individual tabs; if the cart times out or the pages reload, the individual pages (usually) come back so I can just add my items again. However, I get six items at most ($25-30 is always my limit), so I don’t know how effective this would be for a larger order.
@kristin @ going country,
So you could try doing one person at a time and checking out after each one. They give you 7 days to "bundle" so it would affect the shipping price and all be sent together. Just an idea.
I do as N does and keep multiple tabs open. A couple of times someone else grabbed an item before I could re-add it though.
*wouldn't
I thrift my shirts. But if I buy new, it's at Lands' End. I'm a plus size, so I'm out of luck with American Giant.
Lately, nowhere, which is why all my shirts are at least two years old and in terrible shape. I tend to ruin clothes before they wear out. That, however, is often because I am really bad about wearing an apron. And I spend a large portion of my life in the kitchen. However, I suspect spending $60 on a t-shirt would be a good motivator to use the apron. 🙂
@kristin @ going country, wearing an apron is an indispensable habit for this kitchen klutz. Be it washing dishes or any food prep more elaborate than a peanut butter sandwich, I have an apron on! Having a fun one (“The Spice Must Flow,” because we’re dorks) helps.
@kristin @ going country, I think I started wearing an apron about 5 or so years ago, and it has been a game changer for me because I don't get so many grease spots on my shirts. In fact, now I feel naked without one in the kitchen. However, I initially bought white ones at Sam's Club, and they looked horrible soon. Now I've tie-dyed them to mask stains. It helps a little. I want a pretty apron or two, but I really want to wear these out. So... if you decide to try the apron thing, find something you like in a print that will mask stains. And find a hook to hang it on in a handy location.
@kristin @ going country, I don't wear an apron too often, but I have a "house hoodie". It's a zip up sweatshirt that I put on when I get home (I have two, so one can be in the wash). It protects my clothes like an apron, and it keeps me warm!
@Natalie J, I do the same with a zip-up fleece. Doesn't work too well when it's 80 degrees in my kitchen, though . . .
@N, I agree that having fun aprons is an incentive to wearing them. I have three, all with strong personal history: one from the London Transport Museum depicting the #12 bus (which DH and I often took during our long-ago travels); one from a barbecue in Newnan, GA, which bears my unusual surname (the apron reads "Pig-Out at [Surname's] Bar-B-Q!"); and one from the supply DH had made up back in his self-employed contractor days with his company logo. I also have an irreplaceable collection of photos sent by friends who wore DH's company aprons (or the similar T-shirts) to various world travel destinations: the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, the Eiffel Tower, etc., etc.
@kristin @ going country, I love your answer! I wear an apron too and ruined clothing is my motivator. In fact, I’m wearing one right now as I have just finished making dinner
@A. Marie, I love the apron photo collection!
@N, Apron with pockets! They are handy for glasses, handkerchief, iPhone, and anything else I pick up during the day.
@Jody S., good habit. Try sewing aprons, easy sewing, and use pretty denim. The white ones are supposed to be bleachable.
@A. Marie, that’s very cool!
Fun post! I usually buy my long-sleeve t-shirts from Kohl's. This is mostly because I don't like online shopping and if I want to buy clothes in my town, my options are extremely limited. Kohl's is about as good as it gets. I get the Sonoma brand and am happy with them overall. The price is fantastic, for sure. They probably won't last 10 years, but I think I've had some of them for 4 years so far.
@Ruth T, My all time favorite long sleeve t-shirt is from Kohls - sonoma brand - it's surprisingly held up for at least 7 years.
@Ruth T, do you have a Penney's? I've had pretty good luck with their brands. My long-sleeved t-shirts are typically used as layering pieces and I find that they last me for years.
This is definitely the time of year to stock up on basics like long-sleeved T's. I got some for my daughter and my husband recently for great season-end prices. I also don't care for online shopping--too hard to see the color/quality/fit, and the thought of mailing back items that don't work for me is painful. Kudos to those of you who have patience for that kind of thing. I much prefer to try things on in the store and decide whether or not I'll keep them.
I echo what some of the other readers have said--using an apron really does save your clothing! I'm messy when I cook, so I need one that covers me from my neck to (almost) my knees. It took me awhile to get into the habit of wearing one, but now I feel naked if I don't have one on when I'm preparing food.
@Kris, We used to have a Penney's... Back in the good ol' days! Unfortunately, it closed years ago and our mall has since shut down. I loved it while we had it! Nowadays I usually get the shirts from Kohl's in Black Friday.
Well, I get my long-sleeve T's where I get 90% of my wardrobe in general: the Salvation Army, the Rescue Mission's Thrifty Shopper stores, Goodwill, Clothes Mentor... 🙂
However, the brands I prefer are St. John's Bay, Lands' End, and LL Bean (even though I've noticed a decline in LL Bean's quality over the years). I'll occasionally buy Old Navy, Croft & Barrow, or Simply Vera by Vera Wang, but I don't find that these hold up as well. I used to like Chico's when they did simpler styles, but not lately. And Eddie Bauer's sizing seems to me to have gone wacko in the last few years (not favorably to us larger women!).
@A. Marie, I noticed the same thing about Eddie Bauer.
I feel the opposite for Eddie Bauer - their stuff seems to be running larger. I previously could buy anything in an XS and it would fit, but now everything is too large and I can no longer wear their clothes (which makes me very sad).
@Wendy, I think we can agree that the Eddie Bauer sizing has gone haywire in the last few years--even if we disagree on the direction! And I agree with a couple of commenters below that the EB quality ain't what it used to be either.
@A. Marie, I bought some St. John;'s Bay short sleeved t-shirts from Penneys last year. I like them cause they are thicker and feel more sturdy than others. My least favorite store is Old Navy. Their clothes are horrible and cheap feeling.
I can find some amazing t-shirts, jerseys, shirts and blouses at Goodwill, and every last one of them is under $8. And yes, I can get the top brands there, also. The "GW Boutique," as I call it, is also a great place for handbags, and I recently found a Liz Claiborne purse for $6.99. Other thrift shops in my area also stock tees and tops of all kinds. Some look brand new and might have been donated by a store wanting to clear out last season's merch. Look for spirit shirts for your favorite school, college or pro team there. Ditto, vacation spots. Another great way to get a T-shirt, albeit usually not long-sleeved, is to donate blood and get one as a thank you gift from the blood center; you also save lives in the process. You can give every 56 days, which means six new t-shirts a year. Usually with really cute "donate blood" designs. Sometimes, they give out other items instead, so I ask 'em when they'll be giving shirts.
Long sleeve tees have become part of my winter "uniform" over the years. I bought them at Eddie Bauer for a while but the quality decreased over the years. I had a few tees from Hanes, one I purchased and a couple that a friend passed along, that I wore the past few years. This year I ordered more of them and the size small is too big. I have washed them in warm water and dried them in the dryer on medium heat and they are a slightly better fit. I am looking forward to warmer weather and the swapping of my wardrobe so I don't have to think about it for a while.
I have never tried American Giant, maybe I should soon, but I love Lands End and Target. I think both have their place. When having babies and nursing my weight fluctuated quite a bit from year to year so Target was my go-to. I wasn't willing to invest much into something I knew probably wouldn't fit in 6-12 months. Now that that phase is over I have realized I need to get more quality pieces that will hold up well over time.
I usually get Ts from Lands End, which has tall sizes. I would try American Giant, but I usually wear a L/XL and I've heard they run small so I don't bother. Lands End, I find, suits my at-home wear fine; I wear a lot of their dresses in the summer.
Like you, a long-sleeve tee is a staple in my winter uniform.
For me sleeve length is highly important as I'm 5'0 and most brand's long sleeves are way long on me. As in folding it up once is not enough.
In recent years, I either buy petite sizing only or shop in the kids department size XL.
Shopping in the kids department is about 50% off or more especially during clearance!
Brand wise, I buy from gap mostly because it's a good balance between price and quality for me. A $10 long sleeve from Gap (sale or clearance) usually lasts me 100 wears before the threading becomes loose. Can't say the same for the $10 target ones which the threading becomes loose after maybe the 3rd or 4th wash!
How do you stand on L.L. Bean? I used to buy Land's End for short sleeve V neck summer tees because they had very smooth fabric in bright colors that wore well. Then I started noticing small holes in the fabric, and that hadn't happened with any of my other tees. So I switched to Hanes, which are very inexpensive and come in many colors and some prints and seemed to last a couple of summers, at least. Forget Old Navy and Kohl's for such items - super cheap fast fashion and the fit is weird. I would love to simplify my wardrobe to tees, jeans, clogs for my off days. I love colors, but prints aren't really my thing any more.
L.L. Bean is good too!
And yeah, fast fashion tshirts just generally do not last. I have a lot of problems with them getting sort of twisted, even if I line-dry them. I have a curved-hem one that has twisted so much, the curve is all off-center.
@gina, LLBean is the best place I've ever shopped (online, of course). You can call and get a human being any time you need help. The people are genuinely helpful, not "sellsy". The quality is almost always excellent, and if it isn't, you have a year to return things.
@Central Calif. Artist, adding that if you have the L.L. Bean credit card, shipping will be free and you earn Bean Bucks with other purchases (not from the site).
I also include the long sleeve t shirt in my winter wardrobe. I have a size American Giant does not carry. I have an assortment from Lane Bryant, Eddie Bauer (both bought from their website and Sam's Club which seems more inexpensively made,) and Lands End. Finally I also have bought them at Old Navy but never keep them for long.
Completely unrelated to shirts, but I noticed you got a new watch! You had mentioned your previous Withings watch on a Q&A a while ago and I got one for my birthday in November and I love it! Looking forward to summer when it won't be covered by sleeves all the time. I had read reviews about the step counter counting less than Fitbit (the consensus is Fitbit overcounts and Withings undercounts, especially when it comes to everyday, non-consistent movement) so I've had to readjust my expectations there. I also love the vibrate alarm (which maybe my Fitbit could have done?) I never would have discovered the world of step counting "analog" watches without your post, so thank you!
Oh, yay, I'm so glad you like your watch!
So interesting that my watch might be undercounting. So much the better, I guess. Maybe I'm getting more steps in than I think I am!
My thing is turtlenecks in winter. I live in NC, so while I own a winter coat, I've never worn it. I have fleece jacket and a heavy "fancy" sweater - think Grandma, embroidered, thick, Belks/Dillards that keep me warm.
That being said, I am also short and plus size. About 5 years ago, I couldn't make a trip to Catherine's, so I looked online. I used to get the Woman Within catalog, so I looked online to see what they had. Their turtlenecks were on sale, maybe $12, so I grabbed a few thinking if the quality was bad, I could still wear them for a while. 5 years later and I still have 5 of the 7 I ended up with and wear them constantly. The 2 I don't wear were petites that I ordered thinking they would fit better. Of course over time they shrunk, so they're not in my repertoire anymore, but I love the others. They had a huge selection of color at the time, maybe 20 different shades.
I'm fat, so no American Giant for me. If they offered my size, I'd try to support them.
Duluth Trading Company's t-shirts are very sturdy and long. My only complaint is that their color selection is weird. Black, white and grey are fine, but when I bought mine, they also had a muddy burgundy (is it brown? Red? Both?), mustard yellow, and a very bright blue. It struck me as a weird selection of colors.
Torrid has fun, trendy Ts, though I'm not sure they have long sleeved ones. I haven't had them very long, so I can't speak to longevity. They're quite thin, so I'm not expecting much.
@RB, ooh, I forgot to mention Duluth. I don't find it very often because people tend to hang onto their Duluth things for various reasons, but I love it when I can get it.
@A. Marie, My husband gets Duluth tees, but we've noticed their quality as also gone down some. (Shirts get holes more quickly.)
@RB, I love Duluth! You are right about the weird colors, and they definitely are not cheap. I just check out their sale things and sometimes get lucky on both colors and prices. They tend to be sized for tall thin people, but shortish (5'4") and chubby-ish (nunya beeswax) can do okay with the tops. The quality so far has been pretty excellent.
@RB, I went on a little Torrid shopping spree about six months ago because I needed a bunch of things for a business trip. Quite a few of the things I bought haven't held up, unfortunately! I was especially sad about the jeans, because I've never found ones that fit as well.
I'll have to check out Duluth!
My go-to for shirt shopping is Gabe's. They sell a range of brand names at thrift store prices. Overall, though, when buying t-shirts, I prefer men's shirts. The cut isn't always sexy but the quality of material always seems better. I especially notice this at stores like Target and Kohl's, I can find much better quality shirts for my husband at those stores than I ever see in the women's section.
@Bobi, I forgot about Gabe's. I get business separates from there. I would say my success rate is 90%.
I also highly dislike the digital Lands End models. They are creepy.
My go to tee is the Gap Modern tee. They are thicker cotton, fitted (stretchy without being tight), and come in long sizes. I’m only 5’6”, but many shirts are too short for me. I love the hugged fit so I don’t get breezes on my back and stomach. I wear them weekly for years before they start looking sad. The only downside is the color selection is frequently just neutrals. Boring!
A year or two ago, when I wanted some color I bought some “fitted” tees from Eddie Bauer. They are cut in at the waist to create shape, but not stretchy. The color selection was amazing and they have held up well. The sale price was decent.
Ooh, I'm gonna go look up the Gap Modern tee. That sounds intriguing!
Update: it comes in a boatneck, which I love! https://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=241906022&vid=1&&searchText=modern%20boatneck#pdp-page-content Unfortunately, it's mostly out of stock.
But I will keep an eye out.
I also thrift my shirts, now that I've lost enough weight to no longer be in plus sizes. Goodwill's senior discount day is awesome! There are particular brands I seek out and sometimes unworn items that are a few years old, when quality was better, will turn up. My fave is a Croft & Barrow classic tee in maroon printed with cream colored bicycles. So cute!
This winter's shirts are placeholders, as I need just a few while I continue to lose weight. Due to being retired, I don't need many clothes and aim to end up at goal weight in the autumn with a small capsule wardrobe.
My hoodie is a Route 66 brand bought years ago at the humane society thrift store on a whim, as I don't really wear hoodies, but it has been a wonderful and apparently immortal piece of clothing.
@Ruby, I love your ongoing weight loss sharing. I have a number of pounds to lose and AM on the journey, with a solid measurable progress that feels like a life change rather than a 'diet'. Exercising to strengthen my knees to avoid surgery, and weight loss is part of the plan. I have a variety of sizes of clothing in my cupboard as I hung on to (quality) things when I gained, so I will be downsizing into my closet (Whoot!)
I thrift almost all of my tee-shirts and tops. I get Lands End, LL Bean, Gap (if not thin), Duluth Trading Co. (rare find), Ann Taylor (sometimes) and Talbot's (sometimes). I looked at American Giant but the colors didn't do much for me - most of the ones I saw were colors I avoid, oddly enough. I'll keep checking, as I prefer to buy US made when I can - which isn't often! So far, I've not seen one single item from American Giant at the thrift store. My work shirts are, by and large, provided by my employers.
I've noticed quality declining in a number of formerly reliable brands, too, and not just in tee-shirts.
Thanks for the "outtakes." They made me smile.
@JD,
Update, I went ahead and ordered a few things on clearance from American Giant and credited Kristen for telling me about them. They had enough left in gray, blue, off-white and aqua that I could make some choices.
Oooh, yay! Do let us know how you like the items!!
@JD, I liked the outtake shots too. I hope Kristen saves them for later use when she needs a "serious" or "attitudinal" expression.
Haha, so true. It's my fierce face, apparently.
@JD, I love to buy US made so I delude myself into thinking when I buy from a thrift store, OK these are in an American store and no extra sweat shops were used to make this shirt I am buying. This is its 2nd time around.
Hope this makes sense.
@karen,
It does!
I agree about the Lands End website. The computer generated models creep me out. Also Lands End charges $8 to ship and $8 for returns. I used to be able to return LE items to Sears for free but since Sears went away I don't buy from Lands End anymore.
I buy most of my tshirts from LL Bean. I have their credit card that gets me free shipping and free returns plus we have a physical store here where I can take returns. I like that their crew necks are actually crew necks and not open crew necks and they don't fit skin tight. The only issue is they tend to shrink so I wash in cold water and line dry. They have a great return policy and I have actually returned ones that shrank for a full refund.
I also like Everlane, they do charge for shipping though but you can do free returns at Happy Bar.
Eddie Bauer t shirts have gotten long and narrow and don't fit me. Same with J Crew.
Old Navy and Target t shirts are cheap and don't last.
I bought a few short sleeve from Madewell at the end of the season so really haven't worn them yet. They seem to fit okay but seem kind of flimsy. They have a curved hemline that I'm not crazy about.
@Becky, the shrinkage factor is my main objection to recent LL Bean knits. But I want to add that the quality of the flannel in Bean flannel shirts, PJs, etc., has declined shockingly. JASNA BFF wanted to go to our local Bean store on her most recent visit, and of course I obliged--but I was looking at/feeling the flannels and thinking, "This stuff? For these prices?? Gahhh!"
@A. Marie,
I got a pair of their Wicked Good suede slippers a few years ago, and they started deteriorating almost immediately. They're still wearable, but there's a small opening where the sole meets the suede, and the inner sole has worn down quickly. My previous pair lasted 20+ years. I will no longer pay $75+ for slippers/house shoes (even on sale). Sad.
It used to be Lands End when they used to make great products. Now it's Uniqlo or J Crew. Ralph Lauren has great basic tees also.
I've "invested" in Talbot's t-shirts over the years because of quality/price/longevity ratio.
I usually buy on sale and often have purchased for half off.
I have maybe two dozen at this point in black (multiples) and various great colors (They add new ones every season). The quality is exceptional and they do not look like casual T-shirts but more like "go out" style with them.
I'd say that some are well over 15 years old (I rotate wearing) and in excellent condition. The fit is a bit loose at the bottom but I like that. The neckline and shoulders are a great fit and really well constructed. (They use a grosgrain ribbon to line the necks (round, bateau and v). If you wash carefully (gentle cycle, line dry), the material remains like new. I have mostly long and 3/4 sleeves and I like that you have the neckline options as well as sleeve length (sleeveless tanks in same material, colors, too, for under jackets, etc.)
I have to talk about the quality of the all cotton in Talbots. It is on par with Land's End and other higher-priced companies.
When I want something truly casual and knockabout, I've tried both target and walmart. Fabric is not as soft or sturdy as Talbots but for casual I don't care. Again, careful washing is key to maintenance. Fit is loose and that's fine with me as I'm moving around and doing stuff in the "casual" mode.
My all time favorite t-s are ancient, from the Gap in the 80s and 90s. The cotton is/was outrageous quality and softness. OK, they died after maybe 15 years but even now, as dust cloths, they are incredibly soft and sturdy.
Apologies if I missed this in your post, but how long (years? months?) have you owned the American Giant tees?
Last year I bought a long sleeved tee from Eddie Bauer and was shocked by the poor quality. I own few clothes and wear the things I own on repeat . . . but the Eddie Bauer tee had pilling around the bust after 4 or 5 months.
I'm not plus size, but American Giant didn't do any favors to my curves. I soooo wanted to love them! Thank you for this review - love the bloopers, too! 🙂
I have a few basic long-sleeve shirts in the "A New Day"-brand line from Target which I tend to grab on days when I'm just home or want to layer to be warm and comfy. For me, the textural feel of clothes is important, and these feel soft. They've been durable for at least three years of frequent wear.
I sometimes go to Eddie Bauer because I have a store nearby where I can try on for feel of fabric or make returns. After Sears/Lands End closed nearby I stopped shopping at Lands End unfortunately.
For dressier long sleeves I go to thrift stores. After noticing I liked Ann Taylor Loft clothes I have always made a stop at their sales racks too.
I am trying to build up a wardrobe of basic merino wool shirts from hiking stores like REI, but have a hard time with the texture feel of many.
My husband has an American Giant hoodie I bought him for Christmas one year. One of these days I'll splurge for some shirts from there.
I buy a good share of my clothing used, but even then I do choose brands that generally have better quality (LL Bean, Gap, J Crew). When I purchase new, though, I try to choose quality over quantity, so I have gotten Green 3 Apparel and American Giant (both U.S. made), and I do often purchase items when there are sales. I haven't bought a sweatshirt from American Giant for myself, but I found the shirts a little roomy. For me (I'm somewhat petite), the XS is a good fit and I generally wear either S or XS depending on the cut. But quality has fallen off in general. Seams in my children's clothing came apart often, and I'm pretty certain that didn't happen in the same way with garments I wore as a child. It really does make you appreciate good quality when you find it, though.
Kristen, thank you for explaining the Landsend models. I sensed something was weird but didn't know what it was. They have started having incredible deals with promo codes. I had to unsubscribe, because I lost all self-control in December. (accidentally ordered 2 of exactly the same thing at 2 different times).
I know, right? At first I was like, "Hmmm, something seems off, but I'm not sure what." and then I was like, "OHHHHHHH. None of these models are real people!"
Fascinating to think about all the different shapes we are and all the different possibilities for us to wear!
One of the best pieces of fashion advice I read many years ago was that a short sleeved t-shirt creates a horizontal line across from arm to arm and makes the bust look bigger. Not necessarily attractive on a large busted woman. (Presume it would make a small bosom look bigger but that hasn't been a problem for me since high school, argh). I took that to heart and look for slightly longer sleeves, especially as I don't have a lot of upper arm definition.
Hmmm...well, since I am decidedly not busty, I will keep this in mind for the opposite reasons as you. lol
@Heidi Louise, any hints that work for minimizing the look of a large bust are welcome to me. I've got the same problem that the late great actress Colleen Dewhurst described to the producer Joseph Papp, when Papp was trying to hire her sight unseen to play Juliet in a Shakespeare in the Park production: "Mr. Papp, you haven't seen me yet. I couldn't have played Juliet in junior high."
@A. Marie, Ha! I hadn't heard that one!
Finding the right bras are a whole 'nother story.
@Heidi Louise, a scoop neck or a V neck is more flattering to those of us with large chests--crew necklines feel more modest but make us look even more busty. Also, not that you asked for this, but I've been wearing Wacoal bras for about a year now and have been pleased with both the fit as well as my overall silhouette in t-shirts. I wear the Simone sports bra as my go-to for all of my winter clothes. The Elevated Allure bra works well for when I need a bra that doesn't peek out from under my clothing (it's surprisingly pretty, which is something I had all but given up on in a bra that works for me). I know this post isn't about bras .... but I have found that the right bra makes a big difference when I am wearing a t-shirt (regardless of sleeve length).
@Heidi Louise, oh, Lord, bra shopping...don't get me started!
@A. Marie,
I had never heard that story! I love it.
@Kris, Thank you! I haven't gone in to a store to try bras since pre-pandemic and will keep Wacoal in mind when I muster the energy to do so.
Pretty sure we all agree that properly fitted undergarments under a t-shirt are crucial for any size.
@Heidi Louise, I'm glad that was useful information. Wacoal's bras aren't cheap, but they frequently have sales. I found the online sizing guide to be really helpful. They also have virtual bra fitting services but I've never used that service.
A.Marie, Colleen Dewhurst was so much fun! That was a great story.
I get my tee shirts at Tractor Supply of all places. Good quality that wear well and hold up nicely.
Haha! Love the "duck face!"
I buy Ultimate long-sleeve t-shirts at Roamans.com. They are thick and last well. I usually manage to get one discount or another. They start at size 12 and go up from there so not appropriate for everyone but they are extremely comfortable. They have hemmed sleeves, not cuffs, in case that matter to you.
I buy all my shirts from Lands End, short sleeve and long sleeve. I buy end of season usually and find I can get at least three years of wear out of them. I want to try American Giant but have not been able to release that amount of money yet! Great review Kristen!
I’m surprised no one has mentioned Universal Standard. I would rate them as similar quality to American Giant but with a more inclusive size chart. I tried their Tee Rex (short sleeve scoop neck) in a dark teal color and it wears and washes beautifully. I got it for cheap (just paid shipping) via someone on IG who did a promotion with them. So $5 for a shirt that is $50 full price. Look out for sales and email promotions.
I really like Gap long sleeve shirts in the heavy cotton (purchased 2-3 years ago) because I could find colors I liked in tall sizes. The fit on their tall sizes is really good in my opinion for those of us with long arms and long torsos. I’m only 5’10” but it’s just enough extra length to fit properly.
@Rachel Litland,
I have Universal Standard shirts! I definitely got the same discount, and loved it so much that when they ran a sale near the holidays I asked my mom for a few more as a Christmas gift (providing lists/links is standard in my family). I wear them pretty much weekly.
I looked at the American Giant site and easily found a few in the sale section in my size/preferred colors, but I personally dislike when all the website photos are on tall, thin models. Since it's become more common to provide model photos of people of various shapes and sizes, I rely on that to estimate how garments will fit on my short and round body.
My collection of cheap company-provided t-shirts which I find ironically too casual to wear to work is ever-growing and yet I don't wear them because the fit is meh.
I am amazed how often I find brand new shirts at Goodwill from Lands End and LL Bean as well as other name brands. I think people buy them on line or at the outlet mall and don't want to bother to return them. Excellent post.
@Nancy, I believe some of the brand stores donate to charity shops like Goodwill or local thrift stores, at least in my area. Here, they are marked with a red marker on the brand name tag. So, if that's the case where you are, they could literally be new and unworn clothing items. My Goodwill sells those new donations at a higher price than used; my local thrift stores make no distinction, so it's a better deal there.
Sorry but this question is for Battra from yesterday. Battra, I couldn't find the Capitol 1 CD offer on line. Is it only for their credit card holders?
You look really great in that short sleeved pinkish tee. I say, more for you in that color.
@Kristen, whoops, the second part of that comment was for Kristen.
@Anne, Ok, your follow-up made me laugh.
The CD offer is https://www.capitalone.com/bank/cds/online-cds/
Expires March 14. Can't tell what if any other capital one products are needed.
@Heidi Louise, thanks.
i love old navy. sometimes i get a shirt for $4.99. tough to get grease stains out of them though.
I used to buy a lot from Land's End - when my son was young much of his clothes came from there. Nightgowns for me, and towels. I have towels from them that are 30 years old...not a typo...30! They are looking a little ragged now, but at that age they have a right too.
Long sleeved t-shirts...I tend to wear camo men's long sleeved - haven't really gotten stuck on a particular brand. Whatever feels heavy enough at the thrift stores.
Lately I've been trying to follow the one in - one out rule.
I'm a tall plus-size woman. Classic style, on the far side of middle-aged. Land's End shirts are good for me. Classic, sturdy, and longer in length, and less shrinkage than most places (including LL Bean). I buy my pants from LLBean, as they fit better and their quality is good. Like you, I expect my clothing to last me for years.
I love this post! I have 4 Gap long sleeve shirts. They are by far my favorite. I also have Target brand, Old Navy and Land’s End long sleeve t-shirts. The Gap brand shirts are soft, thick and most importantly to me have long enough sleeves. I like the style of the Target shirts too, but they are always a little small in sleeve length for me and that only gets worse with washing.
Well, I'm in Canada so a perhaps a little different shopping although maybe not and I've recently discovered a brand carried by our Costco, Ellen Tracy which has apparently been around a long, long time. It's a US company but for whatever reason the shirts available at our Costco are made in Canada so I like that. That's not what drew me to them though, it was the low price and then touching them - such soft and substantial fabric! Lots of colours, great fit, come out of the wash looking brand new. I hope they get them in t-shirts as well. I think I have 5 of the long sleeves now.
Other than that, I have a few from Old Navy - the Luxe line is really nice and if you can get them on sale, not bad a price. I do find Old Navy's sales aren't as good as they used to be though. But the fabric has a lovely drape and they wash perfectly.
I also have a few cheapies from Giant Tiger (quality really varies, some are great, some not so great so you have to be careful) and Walmart that are okay and serve their purpose. I find it especially important to hang the cheapies instead of using the dryer to prolong their lives!
Anyway, if you have a Costco membership in Canada, keep your eyes out for the Ellen Tracy made in Canada gems. I don't think I've paid more than $12.99.
@Leann, I was just scrolling through all the comments to see if anyone had mentioned Costco. Their price/value ratio is hard to beat. The trick is you have to buy it when you see it, because things don't last long!
@Dicey, Yes! Very much that way at our Costco. Especially things that are great deals, like the Ellen Tracy shirts. Have you tried one? I think Costco may be my number one clothing source right now, as I am also in love with the Lole pants and recently scored a two pack for $16.99!
Interesting post because I was just filling up a shopping cart at Gap.com! I really like their fitted tees and these are nice enough to dress up with a jacket for work.
Target shirts, I have the same opinion about these as you do: inexpensive, modern, low quality.
Land's End shirts do seem to run large or are cut in a way that makes me look frumpy. The fabric however seems thicker and of good quality.
I would want to purchase all my shirts at American Giant from an ethical perspective. However, I haven't noticed any significant difference in the longevity of their shirts compared to the other two brands I mentioned so I just can't justify the price of these shirts on my current budget. I will say that I do have the Classic Zip hoodies and after 5-6 years or so I am finally looking to replace it.
I buy most of my tees (and many other shirts) from Land's End because:
1. Nice quality-they last!
2. They come in tall sizes (when you're 6'0, this is a MUST-have)
3. Reasonable prices-there is always a sale/coupon
Any other tees come from vacations/hiking trips.
Good tip about AG fitting a longer torso; I may have to give them a try.
I just got some new shirts from J.Crew, which seem to be of a good thickness and quality so far. I've also had good success with Gap (from thredup) and Ann Taylor.
I looked at the American Giant site and you are right, their shirts are super nice and top quality. However, they do not cater to plus size, which is really disappointing to me.
I like Michael Stars t-shirts. They are very very soft and lightweight.
Please please please... I would LOVE a heavier short-sleeve t-shirt that's longer. You have a cute tummy. I do not.
I hate the computer-generated models too! I actually didn't realize that's what they were until you posted this. And maybe I am old-school but I prefer models who are conventionally attractive.
My winter wardrobe is similar, except I wear LL Bean Vista Camp pants instead of jeans (lined ones in the winter).
I think LL Bean long-sleeved T-shirts are a great value. I find the quality to be higher than Land's End (I've never tried Target or American Giant). I've been wearing them for quite a few years, and I haven't had one wear out or fail on me yet.
They also carry petites, which is critical for me.
Hello Kristen!
I usually buy mine from Target, or ask for them for Christmas. I live in Mississippi, so long sleeves are not worn here as often. It was 80* here yesterday!
I have a full zip hoodie from American Giant, and LOVE it! It was $$$, but it was also a Christmas gift. I would love to have more from them, but also keep my eyes open for last chance deals.
I retired from the Navy last year, so before then I didn't buy much clothing since we wore uniforms daily. Now, I pretty much do tshirts & shorts or jeans. I have used Thread Up a few times, but haven't settled on a brand for fit quite yet. I too have a long torso, but am looking for quality first, I think.
The search continues, but I appreciate your comments and reviews.
Happy Thursday.
Cheers,
Laura
I've been wearing Costco's Kirkland Slub Tees. Better quality than my Target shirts, and the price is excellent. They come in plus sizes and fun colors sometimes.
https://www.costco.com/kirkland-signature-ladies'-slub-tee%2c-2-pack.product.100670508.html
Have you tried Duluth Trading Post? I love them. Reasonable prices and high quality.
I've stopped buying most clothing from Target, the quality is so poor it's annoying! I bought a couple of sweaters from them last winter, and they are already stretchy and filled with pills. No thank you! I do have a couple of their "Knox Rose" tops and they are better quality although higher priced. I've found really nice long sleeved tees from Macy's when they go on clearance. Good price and they last awhile. 🙂
The majority of my long sleeved t-shirts (which I mostly wear under my scrub tops) are from Gap. I have some that are at least 15 years old, and are finally "shrinking", or getting deodorant build up so have been getting tossed. I also have some Apt. 9 from Kohls that are soft and stretchy, and holding up well.
For short sleeves, Universal Thread from Target and Sonoma from Kohls have held up well as have my Loft Ts. I also found Amazon Basics have been great so far. I've only purchased black but have some long sleeved black/white striped ones in my cart to try for a Europe trip where I am trying to build a mix and match wardrobe.
As far as men's Ts go, my guy loves the Dickies heavy weight tshirts in both short and long sleeve. They hold up well and can be purchased at Kroger (Fred Meyer) around black Friday for a discount, or on Amazon regularly at a discounted price. Otherwise, they are pretty speedy for a t-shirt.
I agree LL Bean has dropped in quality. I have t shirts from them purchased 5+ years ago and they are in good shape and have not shrunk compared to a more recent purchase. All our older items from LL Bean are holding up well but newer items are not.
I forgot to mention my Christopher and Bank t shirts are a decade old and still look new.
@Kristen—I was surprised and disappointed to see the Lands End digital models too! Boo! 🙁
I have had success with both Lands End t shirts (but I agree, the computer generated models are creepy) and Talbots. Both carry plus sizes, and hold up well. I recently bought several t's from Talbots during a clearance event, and they were very reasonable.
I used to find t shirts in good shape while thrifting, but plus sized t's are few and far between - and are usually faded, stretched out, or both. I've never tried ThredUp, so that sounds worth a look.
You do look great in every photo and every brand/style!
Also in every color- wow, lucky you!
I buy all my tees at Talbots. I love the quality, thickness, colors, and price is descent for the quality.
Thanks fornthis nice post, and I am very curious about the nice green dress ! I have had two Gap T-Shirts since 1987 and they are still flawless. That was the original GAP however and I will no longer shop there so downhill they have gone with cheap cotton and bad thread. I also have some LL Bean T Shirts that have held up well enough. Not fancy and more expensove than Target or H&M for example. I am on a no clothing spend challenge for 2023 and am on track. (I do not have kids so much easier for me.)