Buying guide

T-shirt wholesale guide: what to stock.

A plain-language guide to fabric, fit and sizing for retailers buying T-shirts in bulk.

5 min read · Updated 10 Oct 2026 · by BazaarPro

In short

Check the fabric (cotton or blend), its weight (GSM), the neckline, fit and size chart. Start with plain everyday colours, add prints later, and always wash-test a sample before you reorder.

T-shirts are an everyday item in almost every clothing shop. A few simple checks help you buy the right ones in bulk and avoid returns from your own customers.

Fabric: cotton and blends

Cotton T-shirts are soft and breathable, which suits hot weather and daily wear. Blends that add polyester are usually more durable and easier to care for, but less breathable than pure cotton. Ask the supplier to name the fabric on every design: “cotton” on a label can hide a blend.

Fabric weight (GSM)

GSM means grams per square metre, the weight of the fabric. A higher GSM generally means a heavier, thicker fabric; a lower GSM is lighter. Light fabrics suit hot weather, while heavier ones feel more substantial. Ask for the GSM so you can compare designs fairly.

Neckline and style

  • Round neck (crew neck): the standard everyday style.
  • V-neck: a slightly different look, often worn alone or under a shirt.
  • Polo (collared): a neater, dressier option.

Fit and sizing

Fits are usually described as regular, slim or relaxed. Different suppliers label sizes differently, so ask for the size chart and measure the chest and length of a sample against it. Ask your supplier for a sensible size mix based on your own customers.

Plain or printed?

Plain T-shirts in popular colours are a safe base for any shop. Add printed designs once you know what your customers ask for. Keep a few basics in stock at all times.

Check before you reorder

  • Stitching at the neck, shoulders and hem should be even and tight.
  • Stretch the neckband gently: it should return to shape.
  • Wash one piece to check shrinkage and colour running.
  • Open a few cartons and check sizes and designs against your order.

T-shirts at BazaarPro

T-shirts and kids’ T-shirts are part of the BazaarPro range, with designs and rates shown inside the app. The first order starts at ₹10,000, you can mix categories, and every order comes with a GST bill. See T-shirts wholesale, kids’ T-shirts wholesale or ask for early access to the app.

General trade guidance on fabric weight and fit; no prices or invented figures.

FAQ

Questions retailers ask

What does GSM mean in T-shirts?

GSM means grams per square metre, the weight of the fabric. A higher GSM generally means a thicker, heavier fabric and a lower GSM a lighter one.

Which T-shirt neckline should I stock?

It depends on your customers and the season. Round neck is the standard everyday style, while V-neck and polo styles suit customers who want a slightly different or dressier look.

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