Why are some shirts see-through?

Answered by Robert Dupre

Some shirts are see-through due to the fabric used in their construction. The opacity of a fabric is influenced by its weight and color. Thicker fabrics tend to be more opaque and therefore less likely to be see-through. On the other hand, lighter and thinner fabrics are more prone to being see-through.

The weight of a fabric refers to how dense or heavy it is. Thicker fabrics, such as heavy flannels or denim, are usually woven more tightly, which reduces the amount of light that can pass through. As a result, these fabrics are less transparent and provide better coverage.

On the other hand, lighter fabrics like cotton or linen blends are often more breathable and comfortable to wear in warm weather. However, their lightweight nature makes them more susceptible to being see-through. These fabrics are woven with a looser structure, allowing more light to pass through and making them less opaque. As a result, when you wear a shirt made from a thin cotton or linen blend, the color of your skin or undergarments may be visible.

Color also plays a role in the transparency of a shirt. Generally, lighter colors like white or pastels are more likely to be see-through compared to darker colors. This is because light-colored fabrics reflect more light, making them less effective at blocking out what is underneath. Darker colors, on the other hand, absorb more light, reducing the visibility of what is underneath the fabric.

It’s important to note that the opacity of a fabric can also be affected by factors such as the weave pattern and the thread count. Fabrics with a tighter weave or higher thread count are generally less transparent than those with a looser weave or lower thread count.

In personal experience, I have encountered see-through shirts when shopping for summer tops or lightweight blouses. It can be frustrating to find a cute shirt only to realize it is too sheer to wear without an additional layer. In such cases, layering with a camisole or a tank top can help provide the necessary coverage.

Some shirts are see-through due to the use of lightweight and thin fabrics, which allow more light to pass through. Additionally, lighter colors are more likely to be see-through compared to darker colors. Understanding the fabric weight, color, and weave can help in selecting shirts that offer the desired level of opacity.