The Best Men’s V-Necks for Summer Style

With winter winding down and summer fast approaching, there’s never been a better time to update your wardrobe items of yesteryear. Sure, the entirety of your short-sleeved collection doesn’t have to meet its untimely demise, but there’s one summertime staple, in particular, that you should think about mulling over. In comes the V-Neck – a versatile staple shirt. Whether you’re adopting the V-Neck for layering purposes, using it to accent a grander ensemble, or wearing it alone, this lightweight essential is the perfect way to kick off the summer in style. Below, we’ve outlined the best v-necks from brands we know and trust, so that you don’t have to do the job of finding them on your own.

History of the v-Neck shirt

The V-Neck is a simple but stylish garment that’s helped to round out many a man’s arsenal since it was introduced in the 1960s, but today, it’s become even more well-known as a do-it-all tee that you can use with virtually any outfit. Originally designed to be an undershirt (with the famous v-collar meant to withstand wear from adding and removing layers), the garment has had a few moments in the sun over the years, especially in America. The 60s saw a post-war boom in fashion, with the v-neck being a popular staple. And the last decade (although it’s cooling off now) was a notably popular time for the shirt.

V-Neck Considerations

Since the v-neck has become somewhat of a hybrid between an undershirt and a main piece, the material used can vary, along with the expected utility from the user. That usually means natural fiber (like cotton or linen) is best because of its breathability and comfort. But if you’re looking for something with a more athletic slant including synthetic fiber, then there are certainly options.

Los Angeles Apparel Fine Jersey V-Neck

The Best Budget V-Neck: Los Angeles Apparel takes pride in its American-made manufacturing process, and with menswear essentials like the Fine Jersey V-Neck adorning its shelves, it’s no wonder why the company has fostered such a devout following. This NAFTA-compliant garment boasts a 100% combed ring-spun cotton construction, resulting in ultra-soft composure, long-lasting comfort, and durability that won’t fade after a few wears and washes. As one of the company’s staple garments since 1999, the Fine Jersey V-Neck is a surefire hit that doesn’t show signs of impediment. And if you ask us, we’d bet that it’s not going anywhere soon.

huckberry forty five Supima V Neck T-Shirt

The All-Arounder: Remember those old 45 records and all the great music on them? Well, Huckberry certainly does and is injecting some of that classic style into the Forty Five Supima V Neck T-Shirt. Made in Los Angeles, this shirt starts with soft and durable 100% US-grown Supima cotton, and then garment-dyed for added comfort. And since it has a clean and classic style, it can work as an undershirt or as a main piece.

prAna V-Neck Tee

The Sustainable Pick: prAna’s V-Neck Tee is a testament to a simple design, channeling attributes and characteristics from the industry’s finest proprietors, and elaborating upon them to create something special. This basic offering boasts an organic cotton/recycled polyester construction, lightweight jersey design, comfortable standard fit, and Fair Trade-certified manufacturing practices to keep it conscious. To round things out, a minimalist-approved woven label has been attached to the shirt’s left sleeve, providing the perfect amount of visual deviation.

Mott & Bow Classic V-Neck Driggs Tee

The Classic: Mott & Bow might not be a name you see around here often, but the company’s 100% Classic V-Neck is in-line with some of our favorite offerings. This Peruvian essential has been tight-knit to give it additional gumption when used on a day-to-day basis, while a garment-dyed manufacturing process gives it that attractive worn-in look without months of actual wear. When it comes to fit, Mott & Bow’s classic garment straddles the line between slim and loose, making it the perfect middle ground for stylish wearers. Oh, and it’s already preshrunk, so you won’t have to worry about dealing with that after the dreaded first wash.

American Giant Classic V-Neck Tee

The Most Durable V-Neck: American Giant has become a household name within the menswear community over the past decade. As such, its dedicated approach toward everyday essentials has become even more well-noted, shown here through the company’s Classic V-Neck Tee. This subtle, but streamlined option boasts a classic jersey silhouette, a comfortable ribbed v-neck collar, and interior neck taping to promote near-seamless transitions from its neck to its shoulders. Better yet, its durable construction is reinforced by double-needle straddle-stitching to keep give it some extra oomph when it comes to quality.

Mack Weldon Silver V-Neck

The Best Anti-Microbial V-Neck: Mack Weldon prides itself on the creation of man’s most vital clothing, and now, they’ve stepped into the realm of modern style with the Silver V-Neck. This stylish offering is crafted from a premium Supima Cotton, Polyester, and Lycra blend, giving it a comfortable composition that makes all-day wear a breeze. But it’s the shirt’s antimicrobial qualities that make it stand out from the rest, helping it foster the approval of travelers, businessmen, and individuals who like to go a bit longer than necessary between washes.

Buck Mason Slub Curved Hem V-Neck

The Best American-Made V-Neck: Buck Mason’s Slub Curved Hem V-Neck brings the company’s heritage aesthetic into the realm of unassuming basics. Like its more complex offerings, this simplistic garment boasts a tasteful construction (and design) that makes it an instant classic, including a comfortable, but durable 100% slub cotton fabric, textured ridges, and loose styling that’s meant to deviate from the industry’s traditional offerings. If you still question Buck Mason’s devotion to breaking the norm, the USA-made garment also boasts a “v” that’s half an inch higher than any other v-neck on the market, giving it a firm leg to stand on when it comes to uniqueness.

Todd Snyder Made in L.A. Premium Jersey V Neck Tee

The Best Jersey V Neck: Los Angeles-based company Todd Snyder is well known for quality garments built in the States. And the Made in L.A. Premium Jersey V Neck Tee is continuing that legacy. The soft jersey cotton knit makes for a breathable yet durable shirt. Additionally, it’s been garment-dyed for lasting color. And the classic style and fit make it a reliable pick.

James Perse Luxe Lotus Jersey V Neck

The Premium V-Neck: If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, then the James Perse Luxe Lotus Jersey V Neck is worth a look. This Japanese-made shirt has a cotton blend spun in a way that gives it a satin-like feel, making it extra soft. And the clean hems and simple v-neck collar make this a subtle yet elegant choice for a shirt.

The Best Denim Jeans to Pair With

An everyday v-neck needs a pair of pants to complete a staple ensemble. So head over to our best denim jeans guide to take care of that.