The 15 Best White T-Shirts of 2023 to Complete Any Wardrobe
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Say hello to the most versatile garment in your wardrobe.
Real Simple / Kristin Kempa
Like a pair of blue jeans or a little black dress, a plain white T-shirt is a must-have item in your wardrobe that is perennially in style. A reliable white tee exudes an effortlessly cool vibe whether worn for a casual everyday look or dressed up to elevate your style.
For such a staple item, finding a good white T-shirt can be surprisingly challenging. There are many factors to consider, like material, style and fit, weight, and care. That's why we spent hours researching white T-shirts and weighing those qualities to round up the best ones and streamline your shopping. We also spoke with fashion stylist Audree Kate López for expert advice on how to shop for white tees.
“If I could only have one white tee in my closet, I want a classic fitted silhouette that will pair with any bottom in my closet, has a classic crew neck and cap sleeve that can be layered under jackets or blazers, and is a tightly woven knit that looks high end,” says López.
Best Overall White T-Shirt: Madewell Northside Vintage Tee
What Stands Out
This simple white T-shirt is a happy medium: not too tight or too bulky; not too long or too boxy.
What Could Be Improved
The slightly shrunken style might not work for those who want an oversized or longer tee.
The Madewell Northside Vintage Tee excels in nearly every category in our search for the perfect white T-shirt. For starters, it has a great fit: form-fitting but not too tight or bulky, so you can layer it effortlessly or style it alone for a classic, vintage vibe. It’s made entirely from cotton, so it’s soft and breathable. While lightweight, the fabric isn’t see-through, so you can throw it on and walk out the door.
Another highlight of this T-shirt is its size range. It’s available in sizes XXS-3X and fits a wide range of body types, but be sure to check the size guide because it does have a slightly shrunken fit. It comes pre-shrunk, you don’t have to worry about it shrinking in the wash. The cotton fabric is also durable, so it won’t rip or pill easily.
At such an affordable price, you can stock up on multiple shirts without breaking the bank. Plus, Madewell has a 30-day return policy, so if you decide it’s not for you, you can send it back free of charge—but we’re sure this slim-fit tee will become a staple of your closet.
Price at time of publish: $19
Material: Cotton | Size Range: XXS-3X | Care: Machine wash
Best Budget White T-Shirt: H&M Cotton T-shirt
What Stands Out
It has a midweight feel and ribbed neckline, so it can be dressed up or down.
What Could Be Improved
The fabric could be softer.
This H&M tee has a relaxed fit with dropped shoulders to create a flattering yet casual silhouette. It can look polished tucked into trousers or more casual when thrown over a pair of jeans, making it a wardrobe must-have.
This shirt is made from jersey cotton, which is stretchy and comfortable, just like a T-shirt should be. While the fabric is far from sheer, it’s not heavy, so it feels light and breezy for warmer months. The ribbed crew neckline adds to its classic T-shirt look and gives the garment shape, preventing it from sliding around on your collarbones. We also love that this tee goes up to a size 4XL and has a slightly longer fit to prevent it from looking cropped on longer torsos.
In addition to being affordable and stylish, this shirt is machine-washable for straightforward cleaning, though H&M recommends that you line-dry it. While it may not be the softest or highest-quality top out there, it fits well, has a great size range, and can pair with lots of outfits.
Price at time of publish: $6
Material: Cotton | Size Range: XS-4XL | Care: Machine wash, line dry
Best Plus-Size White T-Shirt: Universal Standard Tee Rex Shirt
What Stands Out
You can customize the style and sleeve length.
What Could Be Improved
The curved hem might not work for those with longer torsos.
Universal Standard has a unique sizing philosophy that not only caters to an impressive size range but reflects the size of the average person in the United States. Their Tee Rex is available in sizes 4XS-4X, or 00-40, and includes petite sizes. You can also choose between a crew or V-neckline and short sleeves or long sleeves for a tailored T-shirt that suits your exact needs.
A few design details make this top stand out among other options. It has a curved hem, which elongates the torso and adds more visual interest to your outfit, as well as stovepipe sleeves that eliminate excess fabric. The result is a shirt that’s a little more eye-catching than a typical plain white tee.
While you can't put this top in the dryer, it is machine-washable and made with wrinkle-resistant fabric, so it’ll stay crisp and smooth. The comfy fabric is a blend of soft Peruvian cotton, eco-friendly modal, and stretchy elastane that will soften the more you wash and wear it. While it is more expensive than other options, you’ll get tons of use out of this closet essential, making it worth the splurge.
Price at time of publish: $50
Material: Cotton, modal, elastane | Size Range: 4XS-4XL | Care: Machine wash, line dry
Best Organic Cotton White T-Shirt: Pact Softspun Crew Neck Tee
What Stands Out
It's made with GOTS-certified organic cotton.
What Could Be Improved
The sizing is a bit tricky, so we recommend sizing up.
Sustainable clothing has an expensive reputation, but the Pact Softspun Crew Neck proves that you can be eco-conscious and stylish on a budget. This tee is made in a Fair Trade factory and features a classic crew neck, slim fit, and straight hem ideal for layering. It hits right at the hip for a flattering length that’s not too short or long. In addition to being well constructed, this shirt is made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, meaning the entire supply chain is free from pesticides, chemicals, and unethical labor practices.
This shirt can be machine washed and dried, so keeping it clean is a breeze. However, we want to note that it’s slightly sheer, so it works best as a layering piece, and it comes with a small tag on the hem which may not be to your tastes if you want a true plain T-shirt. Also, we recommend sizing up. Otherwise, this affordable tee is a stylish, sustainable, and long-lasting addition to your wardrobe.
Price at time of publish: $24
Material: GOTS-certified cotton | Size Range: XS-XXL | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best Oversized White T-Shirt: Aerie Distressed Basic Boyfriend T-Shirt
What Stands Out
This lightweight oversized tee comes distressed for a lived-in look.
What Could Be Improved
It's slightly sheer.
The Aerie Distressed Basic Boyfriend T-Shirt is a must-have for any casual, cool outfit. It comes pre-distressed with a slight slub texture, so you get that lived-in look without having to borrow your partner’s favorite tee. The fit is boxy, but the hem goes just past your hip so it’s not too oversized, and is the perfect length to wear with your favorite leggings or tucked into jeans. The dropped shoulder seams add to its easy-going vibe and give you plenty of room to move around. If you want something a little less boxy, you can always size down.
This tee is made from soft and breathable cotton. While we like this lightweight fabric, it is a bit sheer, so you may need to wear a skin-toned cami or nude bralette underneath. Despite the thin fabric, this top is durable and can be washed and tumble-dried for quick cleaning. It’s also affordable, so you can stock up on multiple colors to wear throughout the week.
Price at time of publish: $25
Material: Cotton | Size Range: XS-XXL | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best Lightweight White T-Shirt: Buck Mason Slub Easy Crew
What Stands Out
It has a relaxed, vintage look for a classic style.
What Could Be Improved
It's definitely a bit see-through.
If you want to channel the classic style of your favorite 1950s star, this is your shirt. Inspired by the fit and look of vintage T-shirts, the Buck Mason Slub Easy Crew has a relaxed fit, roomy shoulders and sleeves, and a crew neckline that creates a timeless silhouette. The straight hem hits right at the hips so you can tuck it in or leave it out, while ladder-stitched details have a polished look.
Made from American-grown cotton, this shirt is incredibly soft and breathable. The fabric is lightweight and slightly sheer, so we recommend wearing a nude bra or camisole underneath. It also has a slight slub texture, lending itself to a distressed vibe that exudes vintage charm.
This shirt comes pre-washed, so it arrives feeling like your favorite lived-in tee, and you don’t have to worry about it shrinking. Another bonus is that it can be tumble-dried for extra convenience. While this may not be the top for you if you want a crisp, opaque T-shirt, it’s the perfect laid-back piece to throw on for an effortless look.
Price at time of publish: $45
Material: Cotton | Size Range: XS-2X | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best Heavyweight White T-Shirt: Uniqlo U Crew Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
What Stands Out
It has a structured fit and opaque fabric, so it can easily be dressed up.
What Could Be Improved
Because it's structured, you might want to size up if you're looking for a looser fit.
“Uniqlo has great basics and layering pieces, and you cannot beat the price,” says fashion stylist Audree Kate López. The U Crew Neck is no exception—it’s made from soft cotton, and the fabric has a structured feel to give this shirt more shape. While thick, it's still plenty breathable and can last through years of wear and tear. Plus, it’s completely opaque so you can wear it alone.
This shirt has a chunky collar that doesn’t stretch over time, ensuring it will look fresh for years. Since the fit is somewhat slim, it layers nicely, doesn’t look bulky, and is a great length for tucking into trousers.
When it’s time to wash your tee, just toss it in the wash—but make sure it’s on a cold cycle so it doesn’t shrink. The sturdy fabric is durable, and should get softer and more comfortable with time and wear. In short, if you’re looking for a durable, structured T-shirt that’s stylish and easy to care for, the Uniqlo U Crew Neck fits the bill.
Price at time of publish: $15
Material: Cotton | Size Range: XXS-XXL | Care: Machine wash
Best White T-Shirt With Pocket: Miholl V-Neck T-Shirt
What Stands Out
The longer, looser fit is perfect for casual wear.
What Could Be Improved
It's pretty sheer, and the poly-blend material might not be to everyone's liking.
The chest pocket on this T-shirt is a cute detail, but that’s not the only thing going for it. You can dress this loose, relaxed tee up or down, and the V-neckline has a sturdy collar, so it won’t slip off your shoulders. This shirt also has dropped shoulder seams and rolled sleeves, which give it an elegant drape. It's made from a cotton-polyester blend, which is soft, smooth, and durable. Keep in mind that the fabric is a bit sheer, and it's not made with 100 percent cotton, which may be a con for some people.
When layering, this roomy T-shirt can be tucked into high-waisted jeans or worn under oversized cardigans with no problem. Since it’s slightly oversized, you can also knot it at the hem for a more form-fitting look. It’s a great choice if you want a white top that’s a little less basic and can add some laid-back style to your outfits.
Price at time of publish: $29
Material: Cotton, polyester | Size Range: S-XXL | Care: Machine wash
Best White T-Shirt for Layering: Skims Cotton Jersey T-Shirt
What Stands Out
This form-fitting T-shirt hugs the body without constricting it.
What Could Be Improved
This shirt is slightly off-white, not true white.
This form-fitting Skims tee is made with buttery soft cotton and spandex, which comfortably hugs your body. The fabric is thicker, so it won’t show your undergarments despite fitting like a glove. It can also stand up to your washer and dryer for convenient cleaning.
Because of its sleek fit, this shirt is an ideal layering piece. It looks smooth tucked into jeans or worn under sweaters, and it moves with your body instead of constricting it. The simple crew neck looks chic when poking through layers, and the longer sleeves add more coverage, preventing them from sliding around your arms throughout the day. An added bonus is that this shirt comes in a great size range, including sizes XXS-4X.
Keep in mind that this shirt is more of an ivory shade, so if you’re looking for a pure white top, this isn’t the option for you. But if you want a fitted, basic tee to meet your layering needs, this ultra-soft pick is a great choice.
Price at time of publish: $48
Material: Cotton | Size Range: XS-4X | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best Soft White T-Shirt: Jungmaven Ojai Tee
What Stands Out
It has an elegant drape and comes in 16 colors.
What Could Be Improved
It's not for those who are looking for a structured look.
Made in the USA from a blend of jersey cotton and hemp, the Jungmaven Ojai Tee is as soft as it is durable. Organic cotton is soft and long-lasting, while the strong hemp fibers add more longevity to this top without sacrificing its buttery texture or breezy fit. It can withstand countless spins in the washer and dryer and will only get more comfortable with wear.
This T-shirt has a relaxed fit that drapes effortlessly over jeans or slacks. The neckline is wider than a traditional crewneck, so it sits nicely on your collarbones without sliding off your shoulders. The hemline stops right at your hip, so you can tuck it in or leave it out, and the loose sleeves allow for lots of unrestricted movement whether you’re dressing it up or down. Plus, the lightweight material has a slight texture for a vintage, distressed look, perfect for going out in the summer or lounging around at home.
Price at time of publish: $46
Material: Cotton, hemp | Size Range: XS-XXL | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best Scoop Neck White T-Shirt: Graceful District Sophia Scoop Neck Tee
What Stands Out
This scoop neck shirt isn't too low cut.
What Could Be Improved
It might be too lightweight for some.
The scoop neck on this Graceful District shirt fits just right—it creates an elegant line on your chest without falling off your shoulders or going too low, perfect for layering necklaces or other accessories. Thanks to its self-bound neckline, it keeps its shape and stays in place as you move about your day.
This T-shirt is made with 100 percent GOTS-certified organic cotton, which makes for a super soft top. It’s also durable, so you can throw this tee in the washer and dryer without worrying. The material is lightweight and breathable, so it’ll be comfortable even in warmer seasons.
Aside from its chic scoop neck, this shirt has a curved hemline that flatters your silhouette, and features double-stitched seams for extra durability. Graceful District also pre-shrinks their tops twice, which gives them a consistent fit even after washing and makes them remarkably comfortable right out of the box. Just be sure to tumble dry on a cool setting to prevent it from shrinking more.
Price at time of publish: $40
Material: Cotton | Size Range: XS-XXL | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best V-Neck White T-Shirt: Quince Cotton Modal V Neck Tee
What Stands Out
The V-neck isn’t too deep, and the modal-blend means it's moisture-wicking.
What Could Be Improved
The size range is limited.
Finding a good V-neck shirt can be tricky, but this pick from Quince has a great fit. The V-neckline elevates this garment beyond a basic tee, and it doesn’t go too low so you can easily wear it from the office to happy hour. The fabric, which is a cotton-modal blend, is remarkably soft, smooth, and wrinkle-resistant. Modal also has moisture-wicking properties, which makes it great for summer.
This tee has a casual fit, so while it’s not skin-tight it’s not too baggy—but if you want a loose fit, you probably have to size up. It has classic cap sleeves and straight hems that go all the way to your hips for a clean silhouette and full coverage. While the fabric is lightweight, it’s not sheer, so you can layer it or style it alone.
Since cotton and modal are durable materials, you can toss your shirt into the washer and dryer, so long as you use a low heat setting to prevent shrinkage. While we wish it had a few more sizing options, its unbeatable price and quality make it ideal for those seeking a well-made V-neck tee.
Price at time of publish: $15
Material: Cotton-modal blend | Size Range: XS-XL | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best Boxy White T-Shirt: Richer Poorer Pima Boxy Crop Tee
What Stands Out
The chest pocket adds some extra flair.
What Could Be Improved
The size range is limited.
This boxy cropped tee will become a staple of your summer wardrobe. It oozes laid-back vacation vibes when paired with cut-offs or baggy jeans, and its lightweight fabric will help you beat the heat. Made from Pima cotton, this shirt is super soft and breathable for extra comfort.
Because of its cropped fit, this is not the best T-shirt if you want to tuck it into jeans or wear it in a professional setting. Its relaxed silhouette is better suited for lounging in the house or running errands with some extra style. The timeless crew neck adds structure to its silhouette, and we love the chest pocket for an understated stylish flair.
Perhaps the best feature of this shirt is that it's convenient to care for: just stick it in the wash and tumble dry it, but be sure to use a low heat setting to prevent it from shrinking. Also, if you’re tall or have a longer torso, this tee may be a tad too cropped for your tastes, so be sure to check the size guide before purchasing.
Price at time of publish: $40
Material: Cotton | Size Range: XS-XL | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best Ribbed White T-Shirt: Everlane Pima Micro-Rib Crew Tee in White
What Stands Out
It's form-fitting for easy layering.
What Could Be Improved
The fabric is slightly sheer.
Simply put, the Everlane Pima Micro-Rib Crew Tee is beyond soft. It’s made from American-grown Supima Cotton, a long-staple cotton variety that's gorgeously smooth and buttery. Everlane also adds elastane to its fabric blend, which helps this shirt hug you in all the right places without constricting your movement. Long-staple cotton is also more durable, ensuring you get ample use from this garment. Plus, it can be machine washed and tumble-dried for easy care.
The fit on this T-shirt is clean and polished, for an elevated yet casual look. The crisp crew neck and cap sleeves make any outfit instantly sophisticated, and a middle seam in the back adds extra visual interest. While the ribbed knit makes this shirt cozy, it’s still airy and breathable so you can wear it every season. That said, the fabric is slightly sheer, so you may want a nude cami or bra underneath, but you can always layer it under a blazer for workday attire that's stylish and comfortable.
Price at time of publish: $40
Material: Cotton, elastane | Size Range: XXS-XL | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best Silk White T-Shirt: Ozma Classic Tee
What Stands Out
It has a nubby texture, which is unexpected for silk.
What Could Be Improved
It's dry clean or hand wash only.
This top from Ozma is a refined take on a closet staple, bringing a luxurious touch to your closet. It uses Ozma’s signature silk noir jersey, which has a worn-in look and nubby texture for a vintage twist to your outfit. Silk is also hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin; plus, its temperature-regulating properties will keep you comfortable all year round. Plus, it has a relaxed fit that flatters your figure without being too tight.
The downside is that this tee, like many silk pieces, is dry clean or hand wash only. If you hate doing laundry, you should probably consider other picks, but if you want to invest in a high-quality, timeless staple to elevate your wardrobe, this gorgeous garment is a great choice.
Price at time of publish: $138
Material: Silk | Size Range: XS-1X | Care: Dry clean or hand wash
Final Verdict
Our top pick is the Madewell Northside Vintage Tee for its versatile fit that’s form-fitting but not too tight, soft opaque cotton fabric, and extensive size range. Plus, it comes at an affordable price so you can even stock up on a range of colors. If you want a tighter tee that’s perfect for layering, opt for the Skims Cotton Jersey T-Shirt, which is soft, stretchy, and thick enough to hide undergarments.
How to Shop for White T-Shirts Like a Pro
Material
While white T-shirts come in various materials like linen, polyester, and satin, cotton is the most popular, and it’s a favorite of Audree Kate López. “I like the structure of the cotton; it’s soft, breathable, and easy to wear,” she says. However, depending on your clothing needs, it’s not necessarily the best option. For instance, if you’re looking for a tee that will beat the summer heat, linen is a good choice because of its temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking abilities. Silk is an excellent choice for people with skin sensitivities since it’s a hypoallergenic fabric; plus, it looks extra luxurious. Lastly, if you want an inexpensive shirt, polyester will be your best bet.
It’s worth mentioning that there are different types of cotton weaves that can impact the feel and performance of your shirt. Long-staple cotton varieties like Supima will be softer and smoother than short-staple ones, and jersey cotton will create a stretchier shirt. Weaves like percale are structured fabrics with a matte finish, whereas cotton sateen has a lustrous, silk-like appearance.
Weight
Weight refers to how thick the material and weave of your T-shirt are. “The standard weight of a T-shirt is 4 to 6 ounces—a lightweight shirt will be around 3.5 ounces and a heavy material can weigh up to 7 ounces,” says López. “If you have a shirt that’s 1 to 2.5 ounces and paper thin, it’s probably not great quality.”
There isn’t one fabric weight that’s best—it depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for a lightweight tee to wear in the summer, López recommends a thin cotton fabric but warns that it “may be more sheer.” But if you want to wear your shirt in a professional setting, go with a heavyweight cotton shirt that is structured and less sheer. If you plan on layering your top, a lightweight fabric will allow you to do so without being too bulky.
Size and Fit
The best size and fit also depend on your style and T-shirt needs. Some shirts will be slightly smaller and form-fitting, while others are baggier and oversized. Also, consider the shirt length—whether you want your T-shirt fitted, cropped, or longer.
If you’re overwhelmed while trying to find the perfect white tee, take a moment to decide what vibe suits your style and wardrobe. If you want to look polished and professional, go with a tighter, longer top you can tuck into pants. For a tomboy look, opt for an oversized option. To achieve a laidback look, a loose, boxy, or cropped T-shirt is your next wardrobe staple.
Care
The care instructions for your T-shirt will vary based on its materials and fabric weight, so always check the manufacturer’s instructions on the tag. That said, there are some best practices you can follow to ensure your tee stays nice and bright. “Make sure you wash your white clothing with only other whites and don’t overstuff the load,” says López. She also recommends “washing the shirt inside out and using a non-chlorine bleach like OxiClean.” She cautions that “too much bleach can cause 100 percent cotton to turn yellow.”
To battle pesky discoloration around the armpits, wash your shirts as soon as possible after wearing them so the stains don’t sit for too long. If your white T-shirt is 100 percent cotton and you’re nervous about shrinkage, López says it’s best to “hang dry and then steam or iron before wearing.” Otherwise, it can go in the dryer in a low heat setting.
Lastly, if you’re putting on your shirt after applying makeup, López has a genius tip that will prevent makeup from transferring to your shirt. “Put a silk scarf over your head while slipping on the shirt so makeup doesn’t transfer,” she says.
Questions You Might Ask
How can you tell if a white T-shirt is high quality?
“I personally look for a thicker, non-sheer fabric. This type of shirt will maintain its shape longer, you don’t have to worry about seeing undergarments or it clinging to your body,” López says. She also avoids “super paper-thin fabrics, deep v-necks, trendy details, super boxy silhouettes, or overly stretchy fabric that will not last over time.”
In addition to material, the construction of your tee will indicate its quality. A well-made shirt will have neat stitching and finished edges and the seams should be tight and well-placed with no puckering or loose threads. You can also look for GOTS-certified cotton, which ensures that no harsh chemicals or pesticides were used in the production process.
If you’re considering cotton T-shirts, look for long-staple cotton varieties like pima, Supima, and Egyptian, which have the best quality and feel.
How do you prolong the lifespan of a white T-shirt?
Hand washing your T-shirt is the best way to extend its lifespan since it prevents damage that may occur from the washing machine. If you can't hand wash, toss your shirt into a delicates bag and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Also, consider washing your shirt every two to three wears instead of every time, and air drying it to keep its shape and minimize damage from frequent washing.
How many white T-shirts should you own?
White T-shirts are a wardrobe staple—they can be layered, worn alone, and dressed up or down for nearly endless styling. “Up to three [white T-shirts] will hit the marks of everything you’re looking for,” López says. She suggests starting with “a fitted, higher quality thicker fabric white tee that can be paired with a trouser for work, jeans for a night out, or skirt for an event.”
Once your basic tee needs are covered, she recommends adding a loose, boxy shirt to your wardrobe. “You can opt for a men's white T-shirt and tuck it into jeans and roll the sleeves and it will give you that perfectly oversized tailored, but not too oversized look,” López says. The third tee is optional, according to López, but she thinks that “having a white tank top, crop top, or bodysuit is a must during the spring and summer months. This is a great base layer for your wardrobe and I always pack one on vacation.”
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Jen Woo, a freelance design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of experience. To write this article, she thoroughly researched white T-shirts and considered factors like material, size and fit, weight, and care to make her final picks. For expert advice on shopping for white T-shirts, Jen spoke to fashion stylist Audree Kate López.
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