An infuriating experience: I spend hours styling an outfit only to have someone outshine me in loose trousers and a white T-shirt. The key to this effortlessly chic appearance is to select the best white T-shirt for women that isn’t see-through, looks expensive, and fits like it was built just for you. Designers such as Alexander Wang and Toteme constantly reinvent the wardrobe essential, while Kendall Jenner and Katie Holmes wear traditional white tees with triple-digit embellishments.
If the nicest white T-shirts existed, I knew I’d find them in SoHo, New York City’s shopping mecca. I went into 12 dressing rooms and tested 27 white T-shirts for ladies to discover the best fit for my styling needs. Discover the best basic white tees that are opaque, fitted, perfect for layering, and more.
Why We Love It: When I slipped on this T-shirt in Madewell’s stunning new SoHo location, I knew it was the one. The airy cotton material is softer than bamboo pajamas and feels great against the skin. Its robust fabric feels lightweight while providing enough substance to create crisp, wrinkle-free lines. I usually choose for a cropped style, but I adore how it curves below the waistline. The clever design element is wonderful when it peeks out from beneath my sweater hem.
Who This Is For: If you want to create a capsule wardrobe on a budget, start with this opaque white T-shirt. I’m surprised with its thickness and fitted fit, especially considering its lower price. I wear it three times every week, under sweaters, with work trousers and jeans, and occasionally with sleep shorts to bed.
Why We Love It: Overstimulated introverts (like me!) should be warned before entering the Uniqlo SoHo shop. However, I persevered and discovered that the Mini T-shirt was my favorite among Uniqlo’s five affordable white T-shirt styles. The thick, opaque fabric was significantly less see-through than others I tested on for three times the price. Furthermore, it hugs my body in the appropriate places, like as around the chest and midriff, without being too tight.
Who This Is For: The Mini T-shirt, with its cropped cut, close fit, and short capped sleeves, is an ideal layering piece for casual use. It may not be suited for work unless paired with a high-waisted pant and jacket.
Why We Love It: While the complimentary Perrier water Rag & Bone provides is a bonus, I’ll save you the time of visiting its SoHo location and tell you that this white T-shirt belongs in your closet. The superb Pima cotton slub jersey fabric is like slipping into a 1,000 thread count sheet. Meanwhile, the loose, casual fit is forgiving without looking sloppy. I tested the V-neck version in-store and matched it with the crewneck to show how well both are tailored. They aren’t like the stretched-out picks I’ve previously worn. Styled with stacked necklaces, I know I’m rocking the “I just rolled out of bed and still look fantastic” look.
Who It’s For: It’s difficult to splurge on wardrobe basics when I could spend the money on something more exciting, like a pink bedazzled purse. (It’s the Carrie Bradshaw in me!) The well-made Rag & Bone Slub Vee, on the other hand, is a worthwhile buy if you frequently look in the mirror and wonder, “What will complete this outfit?” After all, your most-worn closet item should be of the greatest quality.
