White t-shirts, take a bow. We often focus on the shiny, attention-stealing aspects of our wardrobes that we often forget about the unsung heroes that can make most outfits work. One of them being the humble white t-shirt. For me, it’s the kind of basic staple that I rely upon constantly as I can wear it in myriad ways and it works for so many different occasions. I could wear a white tee under a blazer to a meeting, or pop it on over a pair of jeans and wear it to do the school run. It’s that versatile. I think everyone needs a good selection of white tees because…
It works for different dress codes
As I said, a white tee can be worn for most occasions and dress codes. Wear it to a formal setting with a nice pair of slacks and heels, or pop it on over a pair of shorts for a more casual off duty outfit. Either way, there’s really only a handful of instances where a white tee wouldn’t work.
It layers well
The appeal in a white tee is that it’s a neutral that works well layered with a variety of different pieces. I wear them throughout the year, whether it’s during summer with a pair of linen pants, or layered under a jumper or jacket during winter.
It looks polished
My general style is underpinned by the fact I like to look polished wherever I go. Believe it or not the white tee definitely helps me achieve this. Even though a t-shirt would be categorised as a casual staple, I think the crispness of a white tee elevates it from your average t-shirt and makes it look infinitely more put together.
How to choose a white t-shirt
It’s important to remember though that not all white t-shirts are of course created equal. You could spend hundreds of dollars on a t-shirt from a major designer or go the cheap and cheerful route from your local chain store. Either way, the main thing is to focus on the fit, quality and style. I am usually a mid-range person when it comes to tees, where I don’t want to spend a fortune, but I also want something with a bit more durability so I’m not averse to spending a bit more.
I have a few boxes that I like to tick such as the cotton is nice and sturdy (I’m not a huge fan of a flimsy fabric as I find it leans more towards a casual look, so takes away from the versatility a bit more) and that it can be worn tucked in or out and I usually opt for a crew neck neckline. I’m equally on board with both a sleeveless option and one with sleeves as it works with my wardrobe but obviously go with what works back with everything in your closet. I also like to make sure it’s not overly skin tight, but a bit more on the relaxed fit side as I think it works with my shape better.
So, while it doesn’t quite equate to traditional investment dressing, in that you spend a bit more on higher quality building blocks of your wardrobe, I do think white t-shirts fall into that category of pieces that help you build outfits, and are high in wearability. If they’re not already, definitely add them to your shopping list this year.
Shop the post
