Fendi T-Shirt Guide: Design Codes, Fit and Gifting

Fendi was founded in Rome by Adele and Edoardo Fendi, and its t-shirts draw on the same visual language as the rest of the house. Knowing the main codes makes it easier to choose one that suits the person you are buying for.

• The FF motif. The interlocking double F, often called Zucca, was created during Karl Lagerfeld's long tenure at the house. On t-shirts it can appear as an all-over print, a panel or insert, or a small emblem on the chest.
• Fendi Roma lettering. The wordmark paired with the city name is a direct nod to the house's roots and usually reads cleaner than an all-over pattern.
• Embroidered or tonal logos. A small stitched logo, or one in the same colour as the fabric, is the quietest option and the easiest to wear with tailoring.

For a fuller picture of the house, from the Baguette and Peekaboo bags to ready-to-wear, see our Fendi brand guide.

Most Fendi t-shirts are cut in cotton jersey, but the silhouette varies from piece to piece. Before buying as a gift, check two things.

1. The cut. Some styles are regular and close to the body; others are relaxed or deliberately oversized with dropped shoulders. An oversized design should not be sized down unless the recipient prefers a closer fit.
2. The size. Sizing is generally XS to XL, but measurements differ between styles. Compare the chest width and length of a t-shirt the recipient already likes with the measurements of the piece you are considering.

For care, wash inside out on a cool, gentle cycle, avoid tumble drying, and dry flat to protect the neckline. Iron on the reverse and never directly over a print or embroidery. If you want something a little dressier from the same house, our guide to Fendi shirts covers collared styles.

The price of a Fendi t-shirt depends on the detail rather than the fabric alone. An embroidered or small-logo tee usually sits at the lower end, while all-over FF prints, appliqué, embellishment and runway pieces cost more. In South Africa, import duties and the rand exchange rate add a further layer, so the figure can move with the currency. As a broad, hedged guide, budget for several thousand rand at the least, and more for statement designs.

A t-shirt works well as a gift because it is easy to wear, needs no special occasion and suits partners, sons, daughters and friends alike. It pairs naturally with ideas in our gifts for him guide, and you can compare other houses in our luxury t-shirts section. If you have a particular style, colour or size in mind, tell us and we will come back with options.