It's no secret that the perfect capsule wardrobe begins with great-quality basics, yet these are some of the hardest items to find, especially when shopping online and not trying them on first.
That is why, as the editors of Marie Claire UK, we have made it our mission to find these investment items for you. A while ago, we shared the jeans we can't live without, and this time we are turning our attention to another unsung wardrobe hero: the white t-shirt.
It is notoriously challenging to get right, in both fabric and cut, but we've found five styles that we would 100% recommend, plus some extra favourites to ensure you find the ultimate option.
Lily Russo-Bah, Fashion Director
I'm a magpie, so the number of basics in my wardrobe is limited. That said, I always have a few great white T-shirts. I often layer them over a mini skirt and blazer, tucked into a pair of 90s straight-leg jeans or under boho strappy dresses when it isn’t yet bare shoulders weather.
Clementina Jackson, Fashion Editor
I’m only a very recent convert to the white t-shirt life, and it’s all thanks to Navy Grey. The independent British brand was already my go-to for classic chunky knits, so when it launched a linen t-shirt last year, I found myself intrigued. Needless to say, it was love at first wear, and I’ve barely taken it off since. It’s the first (and still only) t-shirt I’ve found that has that effortlessly oversized look but is still flattering on my big boobs. The linen fabrication not only creates the perfect drape against the skin, keeps you cool in the heat, and has a chic semi-sheer effect, but it also gives the tee a more elevated feel overall. That means that beyond the everyday, I can get away with wearing it for smarter events too—be it with relaxed tailoring, or my favourite AGOLDE wide-leg jeans with chunky jewellery and statement heels for some extra pizzazz.
Amelia Yeomans, Junior Shopping Editor
As someone with a larger chest, finding a white t-shirt that fits my boobs and has a boxy fit around the waist is near enough impossible. Shockingly, CDLP has managed it. According to the brand's size guide, I would need a size L, but I found the S was perfect for the fit I like. It fit my chest no problem and still had enough room around the bottom for a relaxed fit, without looking too baggy or being too long on my torso. I also have to mention the fabric, a 220 gsm Tencel™ Lyocell and pima cotton blend, which is so incredibly soft but not at all see-through. I wore a black bra under this, and it was barely detectable. I can admit that £80 for a plain t-shirt is pricey, but I firmly believe that the best way to shop is to buy less and spend more; i.e. invest in high-quality pieces that you can wear over and over again for years, and this t-shirt is exactly that. It's simultaneously boxy and fitted, with the ideal thickness for year-round wear.
Sofia Piza, Fashion Writer
All Saints' white t-shirts have been a personal favourite for a while. Equally buttery soft throughout and featuring different cuts and styles, they are made from 100% organic cotton and will last you many seasons. This specific top is my absolute favourite of all time. The box-cut silhouette pairs beautifully with low-waisted jeans and skirts while also quickly tucking into high-waisted silhouettes. Plus, it doesn't lose its strong colour after many, many washes.
Nessa Humayun, Junior Beauty Editor
I've long been looking for the perfect white T-shirt, and this one from Arket finally fits the bill. It's loose and boxy and looks equally good with jeans as it does with a skirt, or even over a dress. I love pairing a white tee like this with a long skirt and a fun shoe. It jazzes up what's a pretty uniform look into something a little trendier or seasonal.
Other white T-shirts we love:
