When it comes to wardrobe staples, there are few pieces of clothing quite as essential as the white t-shirt. Finding the perfect short-sleeve white tee might seem like a simple enough task, but as anyone who has ever embarked on the search for that elusive topper will tell you, sometimes it’s easier said than done. After all, the white tee has a whole lot of work to do, considering how many sartorial situations this minimalist shirt needs to be equipped to handle.
The classic white tee is a casual basic, but it’s also quite possibly one of the most versatile items in any closet, and when you find one with the right lines, drape, length and fit, the humble white tee becomes a sartorial powerhouse. The best white t-shirts are flattering and dependable, and add an effortless, crisp and put-together element to any outfit. They easily pair with everything from your favorite pair of jeans or leather pants to a silk skirt, and even bike shorts or leggings. They’re great for layering; wear them under a chic blazer or your coziest sweaters.
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The precise criteria for what makes a perfect fit for a white tee depends on one’s personal taste and needs, of course, including the fit, silhouette and fabric. Certain styles are appropriate for different occasions, but one you find the right tee, you’ll realize just how big a multitasker it is, whether you’re heading to the office, going to dinner or simply lounging at home. And, of course, it’s an absolutely crucial layering piece, and a key component of any worthy travel wardrobe. Below, see the most stylish, reliable and flattering white t-shirts you’ll wear time and time again.
All products featured are independently selected by Observer editors. When you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission that supports our work.
The Best White T-Shirts for Women
All the best and most stylish white short-sleeve t-shirts for women, including crewnecks, v-necks and scoop necks in every flattering silhouette.
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Mott and Bow. Mott and Bow Boxy Semi-Crop Noble
$30, Shop NowWhile you might see the word “boxy” and immediately take a hard pass, you’ll surely change your mind upon trying out this top, which is one of the most flattering white tees I’ve ever worn. It is more of a loose fit, but with a slight crop that hits at such a flattering angle. This short-sleeve t-shirt an A+ silhouette that is sure to be a mainstay in your wardrobe, and I love that it has a bit of structure.
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Monrow. Monrow Super Fine Jersey Fitted Crew Neck Tee
$78, Shop NowMonrow is a go-to brand for elevated basics, and their beloved crew neck tee is perfect when you want a more fitted topper. This short-sleeve tee is a lightweight style looks great tucked into jeans or skirts.
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Splendid. Splendid Everly Slub V-Neck Tee
$48, Shop NowIf you want a deep v-neck t-shirt, look no further than this oversized fit Splendid top. It’s half Supima cotton and half micro modal, for an ultra-soft feel.
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James Perse. James Perse Vintage Boy Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt
$80, Shop NowJames Perse’s simple, incredibly soft crewneck t-shirt has a relaxed fit for an effortlessly cool, vintage tee-inspired look.
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Rails. Rails Boxy Crew
$108, Shop NowYup, another boxy fit that’s actually flattering! The key to wearing this particular silhouette is making sure it hits at the proper length; this one is also a cropped tee fit (it won’t show any skin if you’re wearing high-waisted pants, though), with a classic crew neckline and wide sleeves.
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Cos. Cos Slim-Fit Heavyweight T-Shirt
$39, Shop NowThis crisp white cotton tee has a ribbed crew neck and slightly shrunken fit, for a more fitted and tailored look.
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Michael Stars. Michael Stars Lexy Tee
$78, Shop NowMichael Stars has you covered when it comes to a wearable baby tee. This slim-fitting white t-shirt has a high crew neckline and adorable cap sleeves.
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Goodlife Clothing. Goodlife Clothing Supima Cropped Crew
$68, Shop NowSometimes, you just need a classic white cropped t-shirt. This soft and flattering top is a fun twist on a menswear-inspired tee, made out of a pima cotton and modal blend.
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For Days. For Days Organic Cotton Daily Tee
$32, Shop NowThis comfy, straight-fitting crewneck is made of recycled cotton.
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Kotn. Kotn Essential Crew
$38, Shop NowKotn uses 100 percent Egyptian cotton for their tees; this crew neck is a great mid-weight option, as it holds structure quite well, so there’s no need to worry about it stretching out and looking sloppy.
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Aerie. Aerie Distressed Basic Boyfriend T-Shirt
$24.95, Shop NowThis cotton crew is slightly distressed for a lived-in, more casual aesthetic, with an oversized—but not baggy—fit.
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Hanes x Re/Done. Re/Done x Hanes Heritage Cotton 1950s Boxy Tee in Vintage White
$95, Shop NowYou can’t go wrong with this timeless boxy crop silhouette, from the celeb-approved Re/Done x Hanes collab line.
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Skims. Skims Cotton Jersey T-Shirt
$48, Shop NowSkims might be best known for shapewear, but the Kim Kardashian-led brand also has great staple pieces, like this fitted crewneck t-shirt. It’s more of a baby tee silhouette (at least depending on what size you purchase), and we love that it’s meant for all body types, and comes in a size range from XXS to 4X. It also comes in a long-sleeve silhouette.
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Everlane. Everlane The Pima Micro-Rib Scoop-Neck Tee
$40, Shop NowIf you’re looking for a wearable scoop neck, consider Everlane’s slim-fitting, fine-ribbed cotton t-shirt. It has just a bit of stretch and a long short-sleeve for a more elevated aesthetic.
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J.Crew. J. Crew Vintage Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt
$34.50, Shop NowJ.Crew makes great basics, and the retailer recently debuted a new version of its classic vintage cotton tee, with a higher neckline and the same comfy, relaxed fit.
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Madewell. Madewell Whisper Cotton V-Neck T-Shirt
$19.50, Shop NowThis cotton tee, which you can shop at Madewell, Nordstrom or Amazon, has a wide v-neck and roomy fit.