11 best women’s white T-shirts, reviewed by a fashion writer

Arguably the most reached-for item in my wardrobe, 颁辞蝉’蝉 white T-shirt is a hero piece. The boxy cut elevates this classic style, while the cotton fabric is thicker than most, meaning it keeps its silhouette all day and, importantly, through multiple washes. Acting as an insulating layer when worn with cosy pieces during colder weather but I also found it to be breathable and airy during the warmer months. In terms of fit, it has a slightly long-line shape and loose sleeves, both of which give the T-shirt a high-end feel. Perfect for leaning into a quiet luxury look, style the Cos tee under an oversized blazer and pair it with wide-leg jeans or opt for a mini skirt and ballet flats.

If you’re looking to stock up on wardrobe essentials on a budget, head to Topshop. The label excels at affordable but well-crafted basics. Case in point: this crew-neck tee. Cut into a classic shape for everyday wear, it’s the perfect companion for mid-rise jeans, with the hem falling onto the hips. I found the crew neck and slim fit to be really flattering –?but best of all, the soft and stretchy cotton fabric makes it a dream to wear. If you love the style as much as me, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s available in 22 other colourways, too.

I’d say this is perfect for those who prefer a lightweight style –?this is the perfect layering staple for wearing under knitwear and blazers, but it will also come into its own during the winter months. The fabric is soft and breathable, but slightly see-through, so, I’d recommend wearing a neutral-coloured bra underneath. The regular cut means it can easily be tucked into high-rise jeans or it can sit on the waistline of low-rise bottoms. Complete with the AllSaints logo at the back of the neck, it’s excellent value for the mid-range label.

Considering its price, I was really impressed with the quality of this white T-shirt from New Look. The cotton fabric feels weighty and structured and is soft and comfortable against the skin. Owing to its thickness, I found that it kept its shape well after washing, but, I did find that it started to loosen after multiple spins in the machine. Nevertheless, it’s a stellar budget basic for layering throughout the seasons.

Aussie label Realisation Par’s viral baby tees have led to copycats cropping up all over the high street, but you can’t beat the original. For something a bit different, try this playful style, which is slightly less ubiquitous than the label’s other designs. Adorned with a 1980s Ferrari on the front and the brand’s eponymous typography on the back, it adds real interest when styled with a rather plain outfit. The cropped T-shirt is fitted and I found it to be super flattering –?I’d recommend styling it with high-rise jeans or a skirt. The tee washes well, without the print losing its colour.

If you like a textured finish, this Asos Design white T-shirt is a steal at just ?12. The classic cut falls just above the hips and has a slim fit. The ribbed finish elevates the plain top and gives it more stretch (this also helps it retain its shape in the wash). The tee is made from a polyester, elastane and cotton blend, so, it isn’t as soft as a pure cotton design. It is also slightly see-through but the vertical ribbing has a lengthening effect on the body, making it a flattering, laidback pairing for jeans.

Combining comfort and style, Adanola’s off-duty staples are favourites of many a fashion editor and A-lister (Kendall Jenner has even launched her own edit with the Manchester-based brand). I love both the short-sleeve and long-sleeve (?36.99, Adanola.com) versions of the brand’s cotton tops. Not only is it super soft against the skin, but the design is stretchy and flattening. Thanks to the skin-tight fit, the T-shirt is the ultimate basic. The slightly cropped cut sits at the perfect length for high-waisted jeans, while the tight, short sleeves help lengthen the look of your arms.

If you prefer a bit of structure, make a beeline for corset-style T-shirts, such as this Asos Design number. Characterised by ruching detailing on either side, the tee boasts a cinched-in waist for a more flattering silhouette. Owing to the defined waist, I’d suggest styling with a contrasting wide-leg trouser or jeans.

A graphic tee can make a plain outfit more fun. A steal at just ?22, River Island’s take on the trend looks like it’s been dug out of a vintage market (in the best way possible). The faded print features a red lobster and Italian-inspired blue typography. Crafted from pure cotton, it’s soft against the skin, comfortable and the perfect thickness for spring and summer days. I found the slim-fitting shape to accentuate my figure. It comes out just as soft in the wash, too.

Me+Em is unrivalled on the high street when it comes to timeless wardrobe essentials. A sophisticated take on the classic white T-shirt, this top is cut into a slim-fit silhouette with short sleeves and a relaxed cut. The V-neck is both a style statement and excellent for layering, and I found that it actually prevented excess bulking when worn under knitwear or vests. As you’d expect from the premium brand, it’s comfortable to wear, but it also has a slightly rib detailing for extra stretch. This is a staple you’ll layer right through winter and into spring, before styling with shorts in the summer.

Available in a range of prints and colourways, Ganni’s relaxed T-shirts have achieved cult status over the years. This peach graphic design is perfect for everyday wear, injecting some colour into your wardrobe. The fruit graphic, typography and signature Ganni logo are finished in a vibrant yellow hue. Designed with the brand’s laidback aesthetic in mind, the tee is cut into an oversized silhouette with loose short sleeves. Whether you size up for an even more relaxed fit or size down for tucking into jeans, it’s an investment piece you’ll wear time and time again. However, for the price, I would have liked it to be a little more heavyweight – although, some people might prefer the lightweight organic cotton fabric.