Everlane vs. Uniqlo T-Shirt: Which one should you buy?

The Everlane t-shirt and the Uniqlo t-shirt both offer excellent minimalist style, but they cater to very different priorities. Everlane focuses on ethical manufacturing, sustainable materials like organic cotton, and a higher price point to match its quality and transparency. In contrast, Uniqlo excels at affordability, innovative fabrics like Supima cotton and AIRism, and mass accessibility for everyday basics.

Here's everything you need to know to decide whether to invest in an Everlane classic or stock up on a Uniqlo staple.

Everlane The Organic Cotton Crew

Everlane's t-shirt is a modern wardrobe essential for the conscious consumer. It stands out for its commitment to ethical production, transparent pricing, and the use of high-quality, sustainable materials. This isn't just a t-shirt, it's a statement about valuing durability and responsible manufacturing practices over fast fashion trends.

• What it is: A premium basic t-shirt made with sustainable materials, known for its durable construction and modern, minimalist aesthetic.
• Key features: GOTS-certified organic cotton, transparent supply chain details, durable knit, and a clean, slim-straight fit.
• Price: $20 - $35
• Materials/Construction: Soft yet sturdy 100% organic cotton that is designed to hold its shape and get softer with each wash. The construction feels substantial compared to more affordable options.
• Sizing/Fit: Tends to run true-to-size with a slightly tailored, modern fit that's not too tight or too boxy.
• Pros: High-quality and durable material feels substantial. Ethical and sustainable production you can feel good about. Timeless and versatile design. Holds shape well after washing.
• Cons: Higher price point for a basic t-shirt. Less frequent sales and promotions. Color options are primarily neutral and classic.

This shirt is the right choice for someone building a long-lasting capsule wardrobe and willing to invest in pieces with an ethical backbone.

Shop this product: everlane.com/products/mens-organic-cotton-crew-uniform

Uniqlo Supima Cotton Crew Neck T-Shirt

Uniqlo has perfected the art of the high-quality, ultra-affordable basic. Their Supima Cotton t-shirt is a global favorite for its incredible softness, wide range of colors, and budget-friendly price. It offers a clean, versatile look and exceptional comfort, making it the perfect foundation for casual, everyday outfits without breaking the bank.

• What it is: A highly popular and affordable basic t-shirt made from 100% Supima cotton, a superior strain of cotton known for its softness and durability.
• Key features: Incredibly soft Supima cotton, wide color selection that updates seasonally, consistent fit, and innovative fabric technologies like AIRism in other lines.
• Price: $9.90 - $19.90
• Materials/Construction: 100% Supima cotton, which has extra-long fibers that create a stronger, softer, and more colorfast fabric than regular cotton. The construction is reliable for daily wear.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a reliable, classic fit and is true to size. Uniqlo provides a broader range of sizes and fits, including relaxed and oversized options.
• Pros: Excellent value for the price. Exceptionally soft and comfortable material. Huge selection of colors. Easily accessible online and in stores. Frequent sales make it even more affordable.
• Cons: Less transparent about ethical sourcing and factory conditions. May not have the long-term durability of a higher-priced shirt. Can be prone to minimal shrinking if not washed carefully.

Perfect for those looking to buy stylish, comfortable basics in multiple colors on a budget, or anyone who values innovative performance fabrics for daily wear.

Shop this product: uniqlo.com/us/en/products/E422992-000/00

Everlane vs. Uniqlo T-Shirt Comparison

Price & Value

The most immediate difference is price. A Uniqlo t-shirt typically costs a little over ten dollars ($10-$20), making it an easy choice for stocking up on multiple colors. For that price, the value is outstanding, offering Supima cotton that feels much more luxurious than the tag suggests.

Everlane's pricing ($20-$35) reflects a different value proposition. The higher cost covers premium organic materials, ethical labor practices, and a construction designed for longevity. While Uniqlo offers better upfront value for budget shoppers, Everlane provides better long-term value for those prioritizing sustainability and durability.

Quality & Materials

Both brands use high-quality cotton, but their focus differs. Uniqlo is renowned for its use of Supima cotton, which accounts for less than 1% of cotton grown in the world and is prized for its extra-long fibers that deliver superior softness and color retention.

Everlane opts for GOTS-certified organic cotton, which is grown without synthetic pesticides, making it better for the soil, ecosystems, and farmers. The fabric has a slightly more substantial "hand feel" and is built to withstand years of wear and washing, often getting better with age. Uniqlo's shirt is exceptionally soft out of the box, while Everlane's feels more durable and classic.

Fit & Sizing

Both brands offer consistent sizing that generally runs true to size. Everlane's popular Organic Cotton Crew has a modern, slim-straight fit that is tailored but not restrictive. It cleanly follows the lines of the body for a sharp, put-together look.

Uniqlo provides more variety in its fits. The classic Supima tee has a traditional, comfortable fit, but the brand also offers relaxed, oversized, and boxy fits depending on the collection. This variety gives Uniqlo an edge for those looking for specific modern silhouettes beyond the classic crew neck.

Sustainability & Ethics

This is where the brands diverge most clearly. Everlane has built its reputation on "radical transparency," providing detailed information on the factories that produce its garments, the cost breakdown of its products, and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. Their B Corp certification validates their high standards for social and environmental performance.

Uniqlo, while engaging in some sustainability initiatives like recycling programs and using more sustainable materials, does not offer the same level of transparency into its supply chain. For shoppers whose primary concern is the ethical and environmental impact of their purchase, Everlane is the unambiguous winner.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands make an excellent t-shirt, but the right choice for you depends entirely on what you value most.

Choose the Everlane T-Shirt if:

• You prioritize ethical production and sustainable materials.
• You are building a long-lasting capsule wardrobe and prefer to buy fewer, better things.
• You're willing to pay a premium for transparency and durability.
• You prefer a substantial, high-quality fabric feel and a classic, modern fit.

Choose the Uniqlo T-Shirt if:

• Your primary concern is budget and overall affordability.
• You want to buy multiple t-shirts in a wide variety of colors.
• You prioritize immediate softness and comfort right out of the package.
• You need easy access to both online and physical stores for try-ons and returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between Everlane and Uniqlo t-shirts?

The main difference comes down to ethics versus affordability. Everlane focuses on transparent, ethical production with sustainable materials at a higher price, while Uniqlo focuses on providing stylish, comfortable basics with innovative fabrics like Supima cotton at a very accessible price point.

Which t-shirt is softer?

Uniqlo's Supima cotton shirt often feels softer right out of the package due to the extra-long fibers of the cotton. Everlane's organic cotton shirt is also very soft but has a more substantial, structural feel that softens beautifully over time with washing.

Are Everlane t-shirts worth the price?

For shoppers who prioritize ethical manufacturing, sustainability, and long-term durability, an Everlane t-shirt is worth the price. The investment goes toward better materials and a transparent supply chain, resulting in a shirt designed to last for years.

Do Uniqlo t-shirts shrink?

Like any 100% cotton t-shirt, Uniqlo shirts may experience minimal shrinkage, especially if washed in hot water or dried on high heat. To minimize shrinking, it's best to wash them in cold water and tumble dry on low or hang dry.

How does sizing compare between Everlane and Uniqlo?

Both brands generally run true to size. Everlane's fit is typically more tailored and modern. Uniqlo offers a wider range of fits, from classic to relaxed and oversized, giving you more options depending on your style preference.

Which brand is more sustainable?

Everlane is significantly more focused on sustainability and ethical practices. As a certified B Corporation with a policy of radical transparency, they provide clear information on their factories and materials, giving them a clear edge in this category.

Which brand is better for building a basic wardrobe?

Both are great choices. Uniqlo is ideal if you're building a wardrobe on a budget, allowing you to get many high-quality basics in various colors for a low cost. Everlane is better for creating a curated, long-term capsule wardrobe with ethically made pieces that are built to last.

Does Uniqlo have more sales than Everlane?

Yes, Uniqlo offers sales and promotions much more frequently, particularly during seasonal changes and holidays. Everlane's sales are less common and are typically part of their "Choose What You Pay" events or specific, timed promotions.