T-shirt necklines aren’t just about style. They play a big role in how T-shirts look and feel, and so choosing the right neckline is key. Whether you’re starting an apparel business, printing brand merchandise or designing a custom T-shirt as a gift, this guide will help you understand which type of T-shirt neckline to go for: crew neck, V-neck, scoop neck, Henley or boatneck. We’ll break down the most popular necklines and T-shirt neck types, exploring how different styles influence fit and align with current fashion trends, so you can figure out which neckline is best for your design.
Source: Branded crew neck custom T-shirt via VistaPrint
What influences the popularity of T-shirt necklines?
Several factors have driven the evolution of different T-shirt neckline types.
- Fashion trends: The rise and fall of T-shirt neckline popularity often align with larger fashion movements. For example, the laid-back vibe of the 70s brought the V-neck into the spotlight, while the clean, fitted look of the 2010s made the boat neck a fashionable choice.
- Celebrity influence: Necklines often gain popularity after being worn by style icons. From the classic crew neck made famous by Hollywood actors to the deep V-neck worn by pop stars, celebrities have a big influence on which neckline types are fashionable.
- Cultural shifts: As everyday fashion becomes more casual, certain necklines like the scoop neck and Henley have gained popularity due to their relaxed, easy-to-wear styles. They reflect a broader movement toward comfort and versatility, with people wanting T-shirts that work for both work-from-home days and nights out.
Source: Branded crew neck custom T-shirt via VistaPrint
5 popular T-shirt neckline types
Necklines define the look and feel of the entire T-shirt design. Whether you’re going for a classic design or something more fashion-forward, the right T-shirt neckline can boost both style and comfort.
1. Crew neck
One of the most popular necklines, the crew neck T-shirt is a timeless favorite. The round, close-fitting neckline suits just about everyone, making it an ideal choice for all body types and designs. Known for its simplicity and versatility, the crew neck works well for both casual and activewear, as well as branded merchandise.
Source: Branded crewneck T-shirt via VistaPrint
History: The classic crew neck, which dates back to the early 20th century, became a staple due to its simplicity and practicality. Originally worn as an undershirt by sailors and athletes, the crew neck T-shirt gained mainstream popularity in the 1950s, thanks to Hollywood icons like Marlon Brando and James Dean, who made it a symbol of effortless cool.
Style: The crew neck offers a clean, classic, everyday look that works for almost any occasion. It’s comfortable, timeless and easy to wear. Because of its universal fit, the crew neck has remained a T-shirt staple throughout decades and generations.
Print considerations: The crew neck provides a large, uninterrupted surface area, perfect for printing bold prints, logos or intricate designs. Since the neckline sits high on the neck, you have the freedom to position designs higher on the chest without worrying about distortion. Place your design slightly above the middle of the chest for a balanced look, especially if you’re using large graphics or text. Screen printing and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing both work well with crew necks, allowing for high-quality, vibrant designs.
Source: Branded crew neck T-shirt via VistaPrint
2. V-neck
V-neck T-shirts offer a more fashion-forward alternative to the crew neck. This neckline features a plunging V-shaped cut at the front, which can add a touch of sophistication or edginess, depending on how deep the cut is. The V-neck is ideal for those looking for a more flattering or stylish silhouette.
Source: V-neck T-shirt design by Ed Davad via VistaPrint
History: The V-neck became popular in the 1970s and 80s, driven by the desire for a more relaxed and open neckline. Celebrities in the music and film industries fueled its rise, making it a go-to for casual yet stylish looks.
Style: The V-neck creates a more open neckline, giving off a relaxed vibe. It elongates the neck and offers a more fitted look, making it popular with both men and women. A standard V-neck is subtle and casual, while a deep V-neck is a dramatic, statement look.
Print considerations: Because of its plunging neckline, the V-neck can limit the design space above the chest. If you plan to print a design on a V-neck T-shirt, place the graphic lower on the chest or opt for smaller graphics. It’s a great choice for vertical designs that don’t need a lot of space near the top of the shirt. Direct-to-garment printing works particularly well for V-necks, as it allows for precise printing of smaller, more intricate designs directly onto the fabric.
Source: V-neck T-shirt neckline via VistaPrint
3. Scoop neck
The scoop neck is characterized by its deep, rounded neckline that sits lower than a crew neck. It offers a more relaxed and laid-back look, often seen in casual or athleisure styles. This neckline is a stylish, sporty and comfortable option for those looking for something more open.
Source: Scoop neck T-shirt via VistaPrint
History: The scoop neck gained traction in the early 2000s as a modern alternative to the crew neck with a deeper cut. This neckline appealed to those who wanted something a bit more fashion-forward while maintaining comfort.
Style: With its wider and deeper cut, the scoop neck has a soft, modern and stylish appeal that’s both casual and chic. It’s a favorite for summer wear, as the open neckline helps keep the wearer cool. The scoop neck is one of the most comfortable necklines, offering plenty of room around the neck and upper chest. Its looser fit makes it perfect for casual or sportswear where comfort is key.
Print considerations: As with the V-neck, position your design slightly lower on a scoop neck T-shirt to avoid it being too close to the neckline. Scoop necks work best for larger designs printed lower on the shirt or for vertical prints that sit comfortably in the middle of the chest.
Source: Custom T-shirt via VistaPrint
4. Henley
The Henley neckline stands out with its buttoned placket, adding a rugged, vintage touch. Often compared to a polo shirt without the collar, the Henley T-shirt’s buttoned design allows wearers to adjust the neckline to their liking. The Henley is favored by those looking to add a masculine edge to their casual wear.
History: Dating back to the first Henley Royal Regatta in 1839, this shirt was named after the uniform of rowers in the English town of Henley-on-Thames. But, the Henley actually started out as sleepwear before making its way into sportswear and then casualwear.
Style: The Henley neckline has a stylish yet rugged look, making it perfect for those who want something different from the classic crew or V-neck T-shirt styles. Its buttons add a touch of function and versatility — unbutton for a casual, relaxed look or keep it buttoned for more structure. The Henley is a great choice for layering and comes in both short and long-sleeved styles.
Print considerations: With the buttons running down the front, the Henley neckline can limit the design area on the chest. Avoid placing prints near the placket and focus on positioning graphics to the side of or below the buttons for a clean look that won’t interfere with the neckline. You can also print the design on the back of the shirt if you want to keep the front empty. Embroidery and screen printing work well with Henley shirts, especially for smaller, simpler designs.
Source: Custom T-shirt with a design printed on the back via VistaPrint
5. Boat neck
The boat neck, also known as a bateau neckline, features a wide, horizontal cut that runs along the collarbone. This neckline is known for its chic and minimalist aesthetic, making it a popular choice for more fashion-centric designs. It’s commonly seen in womenswear but can also work for unisex T-shirt designs.
History: The boat neck became a favorite in fashion circles for its wide, collarbone-revealing shape that harks back to mid-century Parisian style.
Style: The boat neck offers an elegant, flattering shape that highlights the collarbone. It’s a sophisticated choice that brings a chic vibe to any T-shirt. Because of its wide cut, the boat neck is perfect for adding a touch of subtle elegance to casual outfits.
Print considerations: The boat neck’s wide, high neckline means a lot of space for printing your design. However, because of its elegant aesthetic, boat necks work best with small, minimalist designs or intricate graphics that extend vertically across the chest.
How to choose the best T-shirt neckline for your design
Choosing the right neckline for your T-shirt design is about balancing style and comfort. The neckline sets the tone for your T-shirt, so it’s important to pick one that not only complements the design but also feels good to wear. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to help you make the right choice.
Source: Custom branded gym T-shirt via VistaPrint
Step 1: Consider your design
Think about how the T-shirt neckline will frame your design. For bold, eye-catching graphics or logos, a crew neck might be your best bet because of its large, uninterrupted surface area. If your design is more minimalist or fashion-forward, a scoop neck or V-neck could complement it better. Each neckline gives off a different vibe, so ask yourself, does your design suit the classic look of a crew neck, the casual feel of a V-neck or the fashion-forward impression a scoop or boat neck provides?
Step 2: Pay attention to the print area
The neckline directly affects the space available for your design. Crew necks provide the most space, allowing you to print larger, more detailed graphics and place your design higher on the chest. V-necks and scoop necks limit the available print area near the neckline, so you’ll need to print smaller graphics or position the design a little lower.
Source: Crew neck T-shirts via VistaPrint
Step 3: Think about the wearer
Who’s going to be wearing the T-shirt? If your target customers are millennials or Gen Z, they’re probably looking for something casual and comfortable, like the scoop neck or V-neck. Whereas if you’re printing the T-shirts as promotional products, for corporate events or branded uniforms, the crew neck offers a functional, stylish and flattering fit.
Step 4: Consider comfort
The neckline you choose can also affect how comfortable the T-shirt is. Crew necks sit close to the neck, providing a snug fit, while scoop necks and V-necks offer a more open, ventilated feel. If your T-shirt is for everyday casual wear, comfort is essential, so think about whether your audience would prefer a more fitted or loose T-shirt fit.
Source: Custom 5K charity run T-shirt via VistaPrint
Step 5: Match the neckline to the occasion
Are you designing T-shirts for an event, like a family holiday or bachelorette party, or something more professional like event giveaways or brand merchandise? Crew necks are versatile and work for almost any situation and person, but if you want to make the shirt feel a bit more special or fashionable, V-necks, scoop necks or boat necks can elevate the look. For team uniforms or active events, like charity runs and yoga retreats, scoop necks and V-necks can provide the comfort and ventilation needed.
Source: Event T-shirts via VistaPrint
Printing considerations for T-shirt neckline types
Ultimately, the T-shirt neckline you choose affects how your design is printed. Each neckline has a unique shape, which can either optimize or limit the available print area. Different necklines offer different-sized canvases to work with, so it’s important to adjust your design placement accordingly to make sure your artwork looks its best.
When designing your T-shirt, it’s also important to consider which printing method you’ll use. Screen printing is great for simple one or two-color designs, while DTG printing allows for more intricate, detailed, multi-color prints. Heat transfer printing is perfect for smaller, more precise designs and embroidery adds a touch of texture for a premium feel.
Source: A branded crew neck T-shirt via VistaPrint
Find out more about how to design a T-shirt in our ultimate guide to T-shirt design.
Print your T-shirt with VistaPrint
At VistaPrint, we have a variety of T-shirt neckline styles to suit every design, whether you’re looking for a classic crewneck, a relaxed scoop neck or a stylish V-neck. Our T-shirts are fully customizable, allowing you to bring your vision to life. From bold graphics to subtle logos, you can choose the perfect T-shirt neck type that complements your design and fits your brand’s personality.
With our user-friendly design tools, you can adjust the design placement, choose the best T-shirt color combination, and find the neckline and style that showcases your artwork best. If you’re creating custom apparel for your business, an event or just for fun, we’ve got the right fit for every T-shirt design project.
