They’re simple, but they’re cool.
If you live in Chicago, you’ve probably seen gas station t-shirts before.
You might even wear them already.
They’re those plain tees folded up in little plastic packs. You see them at gas stations, corner stores, and small clothing shops. Usually white, black, or gray. No logos. No big designs. Just a clean shirt that fits nice.
Most of the time, you can get one for $5 or $10. And even though they don’t cost much, they’ve become a big part of Chicago style.
Why Do People Love These Tees?
Easy. Because they’re useful.
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Need a fresh white shirt for the weekend? Grab one at the corner store. Or get a soft, long-lasting Crew-Neck T-Shirt you can actually rely on.
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Hot summer day? Throw one on — they’re light and breathable. Try a V-Neck T-Shirt if you want something with a little more airflow.
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Cold winter day? Wear one under your hoodie to stay warm. A Thermal or UltraSoft Fleece Hooded Pullover works great for layering.
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Just want something simple that goes with anything? These shirts got you.
They’re not fancy, but they’re reliable. And that’s why people wear them every day.
Chicago Makes Simple Look Good
Here’s what makes Chicago style special:
We don’t need big logos or flashy stuff to look good.
A gas station t-shirt, clean jeans, nice sneakers, and maybe a Zipper Hoodie or flannel? That’s a solid fit.
People in Chicago know how to take something simple — like a plain t-shirt — and make it stylish. That’s what makes these tees part of the culture here. They’re part of our everyday look.
So, What Exactly Is a “Gas Station Tee”?
Good question. It’s a shirt that’s:
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Made from cotton
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Soft, but not too thin
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Not too tight, not too baggy
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Usually sold in a 2-pack or 3-pack
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Comes in basic colors like white, black, or gray
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Sold at gas stations, dollar stores, or mom-and-pop shops
They’re not made for fashion shows.
They’re made for real people who want a clean shirt they can wear again and again.
Brands Are Starting to Catch On
Now, some clothing brands are doing something smart.
They’re taking the gas station tee and giving it a little upgrade.
Same shape. Same feel. But with:
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Softer fabric
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Better stitching
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A small tag or label
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Maybe a little design or logo
And boom — now it’s part of their brand. They sell it for more, but it still feels like that classic tee people already love.
If you ever wanted to start your own brand, this is a good place to begin. Start with something that already works, and just make it better.
If you want to go beyond the basics, try mixing in our Long Sleeve T-Shirt or Jogging Pants to complete the fit.
Why It Just Works in Chicago
Other cities have their own thing. But here in Chicago?
We like what’s real. What’s comfortable. What fits right.
You don’t need to spend $100 on a shirt to look good here.
Just keep it clean, match your shoes, and wear it like you mean it.
That’s why gas station t-shirts are still going strong.
Final Thoughts
Gas station t-shirts might not be famous or fancy, but they’ve been around forever for a reason.
They’re easy to wear. They go with everything. And they’re part of the everyday look in Chicago.
So whether you just want something to wear after school — or you’re dreaming of starting your own clothing line one day —
Don’t forget the classics.
Sometimes the best stuff is the stuff that’s already been with us for years.
Want to create your own version of the gas station tee?
At Cottmark Empire, we help you get started with soft, solid tees like our Crew-Neck or V-Neck, plus everything you need to build your private label brand — from thermals to hoodies.
Let’s build something that feels like you. 💥