Undershirts

Best Undershirts & Camisoles in the UK: Comfort, Fit, and Where to Buy

Why the Right Undershirt Matters

Think of an undershirt as the quiet hero of your wardrobe — it doesn’t shout, but it keeps everything running smoothly. The right undershirt can wick sweat, smooth lines under a shirt, and protect more expensive outer layers from wear and odor. Whether you’re dressing for a suit, a weekend knit, or lounging at home, a good undershirt affects comfort and confidence. Pick poorly and you’ll feel it in a clingy collar, visible sweat marks, or a shape that’s all wrong. Pick well and you’ll barely notice it — except for how much better your whole outfit looks.

Types of Undershirts and Camisoles

Undershirts come in many shapes and fabrics. Knowing what each type does makes choosing easier. Some are crafted for warmth, others for cooling, some for invisibility under a crisp shirt, and some for a hint of style. Below, I’ll walk you through the main styles so you can match the undershirt to the job.

Traditional Vest (Sleeveless)

The classic vest — often called an undershirt in the UK — is a sleeveless cotton piece that stays tucked in and absorbs sweat. It’s ideal if you want minimal layering bulk and maximum breathability. Vests are perfect under shirts with buttoned collars because they won’t show at the neck or sleeves.

Crew Neck

Crew-neck undershirts sit higher on the chest and are excellent for casual wear or under crew-neck sweaters. They provide extra coverage, which can be useful if you unbutton your shirt and want a tidy look. If you often wear round-neck tees, a crew neck is a logical match.

V-Neck

V-necks are designed to stay hidden under shirts with an open collar. If you prefer wearing shirts with the top button undone, a V-neck undershirt keeps the look clean without exposing an undershirt’s neckline. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in presentation.

Tank Tops / Slim-Fit Tanks

Tank-style undershirts are slimmer and often cut closer to the body. They’re a great pick for layering under lightweight shirts or for people who want a near-invisible base. Slim-fit tanks are particularly useful when you want shape without cling.

Camisoles & Lace Camisoles (Women)

Camisoles are the female equivalent of an undershirt and come in soft cotton or delicate lace trims. Lace camisoles can be both functional and pretty — worn under low-cut tops or as a subtle styling layer. Many brands offer lace-trimmed camisoles that blend comfort with a feminine finish.

Top UK Stores to Buy Undershirts and Camisoles

When you shop for undershirts in the UK, you’ll find a variety of retailers offering different price points, fabrics, and fits. Below are reliable stores known for quality basics, including the brand highlighted in the data: Lindex. I’ll also point out other popular UK options so you can compare.

Lindex

Lindex offers a range of premium undershirts and lace camisoles designed for soft comfort. They focus on feminine cuts and often use soft modal blends and delicate trims, making them a go-to for those who want both comfort and a touch of style. If you’re shopping for camisoles that look good and feel gentle on the skin, Lindex is worth checking out.

Marks & Spencer (M&S)

M&S is a household name for reliable vests and camisoles. Known for long-lasting cotton and good fits, M&S often provides mixed packs in a range of neutral colors. Their products tend to be durable and value-driven, so they’re a solid choice if you want dependable basics without fuss.

Uniqlo

Uniqlo is excellent for tech fabrics and minimalist design. Their AIRism and Supima cotton ranges offer undershirts that are breathable, quick-drying, and soft to the touch. Expect clean cuts and modern fits — ideal if you like a crisp, contemporary look and performance fabrics that work well under a suit or sports shirt.

ASOS (ASOS Design)

ASOS offers a wide selection of styles and price points under its own label and from other brands. If you want modern cuts, slim fits, or fashion-forward camisoles, ASOS is a great browsing ground. They also carry multi-pack basics that keep costs down if you’re stocking up.

Next

Next provides practical, well-made undershirts and a variety of slim and regular fits. Their range covers simple cotton vests to smarter camisole options for women. Next is a good middle-ground retailer — solid quality without premium prices, and often with useful color choices.

John Lewis & Partners

John Lewis stocks premium basics and designer collaborations, so you can find elevated undershirts and luxury camisoles here. Their selection leans toward quality fabrics and finishes, making them a good destination if you want a step up from the high-street essentials.

H&M

H&M is a budget-friendly option with current styles. Their basics are affordable and often refreshed seasonally, which is perfect if you want to try new cuts or trendy camisoles without committing to a high price. Fabric quality varies, so look for items labelled organic cotton or modal blends if longevity is important.

Matalan

Matalan offers value packs and practical basics for everyday wear. Their undershirts are designed to be affordable and functional, appealing if you need several reliable vests or camisoles for daily rotation at a low cost.

Primark

Primark gives you the lowest price points on simple vests and camisoles. Great for quick replacements or stocking a wardrobe on a budget, but expect more variability in quality. Primark is ideal if you want something cheap for occasional wear or to use as a disposable option.

Tesco & Sainsbury’s (Tu Clothing)

Supermarket clothing lines like Tesco’s and Sainsbury’s Tu range offer convenient, wallet-friendly undershirts and camisoles. They’re great for everyday basics and often available in multipacks. If you want something affordable and you’re already shopping groceries, picking up a few vests is easy and practical.

Choosing Fabric: Cotton, Modal, Bamboo, and Blends

The fabric affects feel, breathability, and longevity. Cotton is the classic choice for absorbency and softness, but modern blends bring performance perks. Modal and bamboo feel silkier and resist shrinkage, while synthetic blends offer stretch and quick-drying properties. Choose cotton for everyday comfort, modal for softness and drape, and blends with elastane for shape retention.

Fit and Sizing Guide (in inches)

Proper fit keeps an undershirt invisible and comfortable. Here’s a simple chest guide in inches to help you shop: Small 36 in, Medium 40 in, Large 44 in, X-Large 48 in. For length, a good undershirt should reach roughly mid-hip — about 20–28 inches depending on your height — so it stays tucked in under movement. If you prefer a slimmer silhouette, look for “slim fit” or “fitted” cuts with elastane for stretch. Always check a brand’s own size chart because cuts vary.

Layering and Styling Tips

Undershirts aren’t just practical — they’re a styling tool. Want your shirt to sit smoother under a blazer? Choose a fitted crew neck in a neutral shade. Heading for a summer linen shirt with a few buttons undone? A V-neck in a lightweight fabric keeps things neat without peeking out. For camisoles, pair delicate lace with open-knit sweaters for a feminine touch, or wear them under sheer tops to maintain modesty while letting your outfit breathe.

Care and Longevity: Keep Your Undershirts Fresh

How you care for undershirts matters. Wash whites separately to avoid dulling, use a gentle detergent for delicate fabrics, and avoid high-heat drying if the label warns against it. Air-drying keeps fibers in better shape and reduces shrinkage. Treat lace camisoles with extra care — a lingerie bag on a delicate cycle or a hand wash will keep trims intact. Good care stretches the life of inexpensive basics and makes premium pieces last even longer.

Sustainable and Organic Options

If sustainability is a priority, many UK retailers now offer organic cotton and sustainably sourced modal or TENCEL™ fabrics. Brands like M&S and John Lewis increasingly list organic or responsibly sourced options. Look for certifications like GOTS or GS for organic fibers, and check if the brand discloses dyeing and water-use practices. Buying fewer, higher-quality pieces that last longer is also a powerful sustainability move.

Price Ranges and Value Picks

Undershirt pricing varies widely. Expect to pay around £5–£20 per piece for high-street basics, while premium or technical fabrics can cost £20–£40 or more. Multipacks are your friend for value shopping — many retailers sell three- or five-packs that bring the per-shirt price down. If you wear an undershirt daily, investing in a few slightly better-quality items often saves money over time because they retain shape and color longer.

Special Considerations: Sensitive Skin and Temperature Control

If your skin is sensitive, search for “organic cotton” or “modal” and avoid harsh dyes. Tags and seams matter, too — flat seams and tagless designs reduce irritation. For temperature control, breathable natural fibers like cotton and bamboo are cooling, while thicker knits offer slight insulation. Brands such as Uniqlo with AIRism technology provide a performance option that wicks sweat while remaining soft.

Where to Start: Quick Picks Based on Need

If you want a quick shopping map: choose Uniqlo or Marks & Spencer for reliable daily basics; pick Lindex or John Lewis if you want softer, more feminine camisoles with delicate detail; use ASOS and Next when you want a variety of modern cuts; and turn to Primark or supermarket ranges for cheap, plentiful packs. That approach helps you match budget, style, and function without getting overwhelmed.

Final Recommendations

Start by deciding the job your undershirt needs to do: hidden under a shirt, absorbent for daily wear, or pretty layering for leisure. Try a couple of styles in different fabrics to learn what feels best on your body. Pay attention to necklines so the undershirt stays hidden when you want it to, and treat lace or delicate camisoles with care. A few well-chosen undershirts will make your outfits look better and your whole day more comfortable.

Picking the right undershirt is a small investment that pays daily dividends — less sweat on your shirts, smoother lines under layers, and more confidence that your clothes are working with you, not against you. Happy shopping, and remember: the best undershirt is the one you forget you’re wearing.