Shirts Are a Vital Part of Any Wardrobe—Here Are the Best for Every Budget
From classic white cotton to chic stripes, these are the very best shirts for women that you can buy today. Scroll down to see and shop our edit.
As ideal as it would be, there isn't a capsule wardrobe that can suit all, but there is something universally useful and appealing about a well-cut button-down shirt. The fact is shirts slot into almost every personal style profile. If you're into minimalism, shirts will be key. If you like layering, a great button-down is a vital tool. If you are a holiday buff, you'll know just how practical it is to pack one in your travel-on suitcase. Beach cover-up, knotted party top, airport staple—a humble shirt does it all. If you're in the world of corporate work, a shirt is a non-negotiable. If you like vintage style, there are shirts to suit your needs. If you like menswear-inspired tailoring, your kit wouldn't be complete without one… I could go on, but I think you get the picture.
The best shirts for women do not come in just one size, cut, colour or finish, which is why this bumper gallery of shopping options showcases the best in every category, from white to striped, neutral to colourful. The reason there are so many options today is that shirts, although classic, have become a trendier option in the past few years. Whether worn with jeans or loose and unbuttoned over a crop top and slip skirt, a decent shirt will serve you very well.
Keep scrolling to shop our edit of the best button-down shirts of every key style and price point.
The Best Shirts for Autumn 2026 (and Beyond)
The Best White Shirts
Style Notes: Does it get more versatile than a white shirt? I don't think so, and fashion people agree. This timeless staple can be taken from day to night with a few simple wardrobe swaps and is an easy way to look put-together no matter the time of year
Shop the Best White Shirts:
The Best Striped Shirts
Style Notes: If you're looking for something slightly more elevated than a basic white shirt, look no further than stripes that will give a directional feel to any outfit. Now, when it comes to striped shirts in 2026 specifically, it's all about a looser fit and thicker stripes.
Shop the Best Striped Shirts
The Best Neutral Shirts
Style Notes: If you're terrified of spillages on your commute to and from work, why not opt for darker but no less versatile neutral shirt? They're easy to style, effortlessly chic and look expensive at any price point.
Shop the Best Neutral Shirts
I want the matching trousers as well, please!
The Best Colourful Shirts
Style Notes: Don't be afraid to embrace colour this season. From elegant merlot hues through to punchy blues that are sure to turn heads, a colourful shirt will elevate any autumn outfit.
Shop the Best Colourful Shirts
Hannah Almassi is the MD for Women’s UK at Future PLC. Following a decade-long tenure as Who What Wear UK’s first Editor-in-Chief, she now oversees Who What Wear and Marie Claire in the UK. Hannah has been part of the the Who What Wear brand since 2015, when she was headhunted to launch the UK sister site and social channels, implement a localised content strategy and build out the editorial team. As an expert at the intersection of content, commerce, building brands and monetising digital platforms, she now combines her editorial experience alongside business acumen to help guide digital titles into the future.