The term "effortlessly chic" gets thrown around a lot in fashion. In reality, these two words are rarely applicable. But when it comes to the white shirt? Absolutely. No matter what sort of budget you have or what kind of sense of style, the white shirt is the ultimate wardrobe staple. Is there anything so simple yet so chic? It's so easy to wear on the weekend and to the office. It's perfect for a night out but also a night in watching Netflix. It's the ultimate classic to have in one's arsenal, and whether it's oversize or fitted, linen or poplin, there are endless ways this classic piece appeals and can be rendered.
The white shirt even has its own icons. Old Hollywood stars such as Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly wore them loose with capri pants or tucked into pencil skirts. Another recognizable look comes from Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, in which she wore a white shirt tied at the waist and a miniskirt.
Modern-day white-shirt muses, however, include the likes of Jenna Lyons, former creative director of J.Crew. After all, she reconfigured how we view this humble item. Perhaps our favorite go-to celebrity for white-shirt styling inspiration is Victoria Beckham, whose insouciant way of rolling up her sleeves has us wanting to do the same.
Whatever your preference, one thing's for certain: Finding the one that fits you is like finding the fashion holy grail. It needs to fit just right and not gape at the chest or be excessively oversize. It needs to weather a coffee spill, and it needs to be long-lasting because, when you find the ultimate one, you'll never get rid of it.
To get the definitive guide to the best white shirts for women, I put the question to our 2000-member Facebook group, So... Should I Should Buy This?, asking them where they've found their best-ever white shirts. I also asked all the editors at Who What Wear which brands they rated. I had plenty of responses, and some labels clearly stood out. What was evident was that people were willing to pay more if a genuinely perfect fit was on offer, no matter the price.
Of all the brands that came out on top, there were two winners: Anine Bing was the most popular, with Gap following closely. But there were so many more that were recommended—from Madewell's relaxed-fitting silhouettes to Theory's high-quality fabrics that will last you a lifetime. Ready to discover your favorite white shirt? Keep scrolling to see our edit and how to style yours.
How to Style Yours
Style Notes: You seriously can't go wrong with a white shirt tucked into blue jeans. Pair with all-black accessories.
Style Notes: If you're a skirt person or just want to wear something a bit more oversize, take a tip from Brittany Bathgate and wear yours loose with an A-line skirt.
Style Notes: Here's another jeans-and–white shirt combination, this time with white heels. It's a small difference, but it really makes an impact.
Style Notes: Up the sass factor by wearing your loose white shirt tucked into a miniskirt with metallic heels.
Shop the Best White Shirts
H&M wasn't mentioned in the group discussion, but I've had a white shirt from the brand for about five years, and it hasn't let me down. It's great for a cover-up on the beach but also smart enough for work.
"I love the quality of the fabric. The cut is traditional shirt and the length is perfect. Very classy!"—H&M Reviewer
Size range: XS to 4XL
Materials: 100% Linen
This brand was cited a couple of times as a great place to find timeless and quality shirts.
"I was very impressed by the fit of this shirt. The quality did not feel cheap. As for the sizing, it is oversized, but looked tailored to my body! To reference I am 5ft tall, 120lbs, and ordered a size XS."—Revolve Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Materials: 100% Cotton
Market editor Judith Jones loves button-down shirts from Madewell. They're great fitting, easy-to-wear, and good quality.
"Yes, yes, and yes! I’ve been on the look out for a versatile white blouse for layering or for a relaxed timeless style with jeans and this top accomplishes everything I’ve asked of it. It runs a little oversized but that’s what I was going for. The quality is great as the material feels strong and crisp but still delicate and style forward. Love this piece."—Madewell Reviewer
Size range: XXS to XXL
Materials: 100% Cotton
Mango knows how to do a good white button-down.
Size range: 0 to 20
Materials: 50% Cotton, 50% Lyocell
Citizens of Humanity is known for its great pairs of jeans, but the brand also makes great white shirts.
"Bought as gift for my daughter. It is so eye catching with her denim shorts."—Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Materials: 100% Cotton
This Theory shirt has major corporate-chic energy.
"Great tailoring and just a bit of stretch so has a nice semi fitted appearance. Wonderful smooth touch. A great basic that will last for years to come. Perfect with pencil skirts, wide leg slacks or partially tucked into skinny or boyfriend jeans."—Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: S to XL
Materials: 72% Cotton, 23% Nylon, 5% Lycra Spandex
Another brand that was mentioned a few times was Gap. Not only are the shirts apparently easy to iron, but they also last a long time.
"This shirt is great, extremely nice linen not itchy. You can dress this shirt up or down. Quality fabric, comfortable fit. If you want an oversized look purchase your regular size but if you want a more tailored fit size down. You will not be disappointed."—Gap Reviewer
Size range: S to XXL (regular, tall, and petite)
Materials: 100% Organic Cotton
Hatch is one of the more affordable brands you can shop at Saks. While this shirt may be on the less expensive side, it definitely doesn't lack quality.
"Great quality shirt to dress up or down. Just purchased the white but plan to get more colors!"—Hatch Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Materials: 97% Cotton, 3% Elastane
Classic and crisp.
Size range: XXS to XXL
Materials: 100% Cotton
For a versatile button-down that will last you a lifetime, look no further than Nili Lotan's relaxed-fitting tops.
Size range: XS to L
Materials: 100% Cotton
Good American is known for great basics, and this shirt definitely falls under that category.
"I have looked all over for the right white shirt. The collar stands up so chic if you like that look! Absolutely perfect!"—Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XS to 3XL
Materials: 65% Cotton, 33% Nylon, 2% Elastane
French brand Sézane does a great line in shirts, but you'll have to be quick, as they sell out very quickly.
Size range: 0 to 16
Materials: 100% Organic Cotton
You can't go wrong with a Reformation buy.
Size range: XS to XL
Materials: 98% Organic Cotton and 2% Spandex
H&M strikes again.
"This is a great quality shirt."—H&M Reviewer
Size range: XS to XXL
Materials: 100% Cotton
If you're looking for a high-fashion buy, I've found it.
Size range: 4 to 14
Materials: 100% Cotton
I have this one in blue, and it's so good that I'm buying it in white.
"Great oversized button up shirt. It is so soft while still having a bit of structure. I have it in many colors!"—Revolve Reviewer
Size range: S to XL
Materials: 100% Cotton
A fashion favorite for sure.
Size range: XS to L
Materials: 100% Cotton
Everyone needs a linen one, too.
Size range: XXS to XXL
Materials: 100% Linen
Love a good Everlane moment.
Size range: 00 to 16
Materials: 100% Organic Cotton
I had to mention stripes.
Size range: 32 to 40
Materials: 100% cotton
Anine Bing was definitely mentioned by a few readers.
"Omg, this is amazing. It is the best quality shirt I have ever bought. It is so soft. I was a bit apprehensive re the price but would not think twice again and will certainly order more styles."—Shopbop Reviewer
Size range: XS to L
Materials: 100% cotton
So good.
Size range: XS to L
Materials: 100% cotton
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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