How many plain t-shirts do I actually need in my wardrobe?

[Matthew15]

I’ve been slowly working through my wardrobe, but I’m stuck on my collection of plain t-shirts. I own nearly twenty of them in various neutral shades, and while I wear them all regularly, it feels excessive. How do you decide on the right number for such a basic, frequently used item?

[Scott.G]

I finally treated my neutrals like a small capsule and cut way back. I did a five week rotation and watched what got worn—the same four or five shirts carried most of my outfits while the rest barely left the drawer. I landed on eight or so that feel reliable: a couple whites, a charcoal, a navy, a beige, a couple heathers. If something stays unworn for a season, I donate it. Keeps things simple and honest.

[JacobP]

I aim for six to seven basics now. If I pick up a new one, I retire something similar. Fabric matters, so I keep cotton jersey leaning calm and avoid mixing too many textures. It helps mornings not feel like a tiny math problem.

[Brandon33]

I kept twenty and thought I was lucky, but the closet still felt crowded. I started labeling shirts by last worn date and trimming by color family, which cleared space and mornings, but then I started chasing a 'look' and bought two more because they appeared essential in a moment. The result was more inputs, not more ease, and I stopped after a season and wondered what I was really chasing.

[NoraJL]

Maybe the snag isn’t the number at all. Do you think the real problem is decision fatigue rather than the number?