13 Vogue Editors Share the Best White T-Shirts
How do you find the best white T-shirt? It might seem like a simple question, but tracking one down that checks all of the boxes, from fit to comfort, is quite a feat. After all, the more minimal a clothing item is, the more its flaws become glaringly clear. Nobody likes the feeling of slipping on a boxy, ill-fitted white tee that is as stiff as cardboard against our skin. Finally, however, the search is over.
Throughout the history of pop culture, from Marlon Brando to Kendall Jenner, the white T-shirt is ingrained in both our lives and our wardrobes. “Everybody needs it. Every culture and subculture has used the white T-shirt. That’s where the genius is,” said Karla Welch to Vogue. For us at Vogue, the white T-shirt has become a unifying closet staple, perhaps even more so as we find ourselves seeking comfort at home during these uncertain times. While we may be self-isolating and practicing social distancing, there’s something liberating about wearing a crisp, classic white T-shirt in the morning—fresh, dewy-faced, adding only a touch of jewelry to give us the extra mood lift we may need, whether that’s in a pair of gold hoops or a minimalist chain necklace to help us feel some semblance of sartorial normalcy. And what’s more iconic and representative of our daily lives than a white T-shirt and a classic pair of jeans? Two editors recently weighed in on this divisive topic and the verdict is in; yes, jeans can be comfortable at home, too.
[Photo: Photographed by Mikael Jansson, Vogue, November 2019]
Below, 13 Vogue editors share the best white T-shirts for women to wear now, and forever.
Rickie De Sole, Executive Fashion Director
It’s a lot to spend on a white T-shirt, but I found owning the perfect one was better than owning 12 that just don’t fit quite right. I make this T-shirt work all year round—as a base layer under sweaters during the winter, and I pair it with skirts and shorts in the warmer months.
Alexandra Gurvitch, Market Editor
My favorite white tee is the Hanes x Karla crew because I like my tees to have weight, especially if they are white. I have it in both the cropped and tank versions because I love it so much! White tees really can veer unflattering, but this one retains a good structure.
Alexandra Michler, Director, Fashion Development
The Petit Bateau Iconic T-shirt is just that. It is simple, elegant, and looks just as good with a long evening skirt as it does a loose pair of worn-in denim. Bonus points: they make them for kids too.
Madeline Swanson, Accessories Editor
I love Kule’s cotton tees for their classic unisex shape and soft lightweight feel, with sleeves that are just long enough and never too tight. They tuck perfectly into my favorite jeans (a French tuck preferably, so as not to hide the brand’s trademark stripe at the bottom hem—my favorite part!)
Rachel Besser, Market Editor
To me, the perfect white T-shirt has a high, almost mock neck collar, loose sleeves that don’t hug my arms, and is crisp with some structure, yet still relaxed.
Willow Lindley, Accessories Director
These are called “holy grail” white tees for a reason. The best white tees that are the perfect opacity and uber soft. Plus, they are upcycled from vintage white tees, so they’re a sustainable choice.
Madeline Fass, Associate Market Editor
Cotton Citizen makes great basics, t-shirts, sweatpants, sweatshirts, the works. I love their plain white Sydney tee because it’s loose in all the right places and feels oversized without being baggy, or like there’s too much fabric to tuck in or have hanging out. Great for layering, lounging, and everyday wear. I have one in black too!
Naomi Elizee, Associate Market Editor
I’m going on week three of working from home, so it’s no surprise that t-shirts have been on rotation for me. I love this top from See by Chloé as it’s the perfect twist on the classic white T-shirt but you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for the style!
Mai Morsch, Associate Market Editor
I love Leset’s Classic Margo tee. It hits at just the right length and is relaxed without being too boxy.
Zoe Ruffner, Beauty Editor
I wear Filippa K’s ribbed tank almost every day (luckily I have two!). It’s perfect to layer underneath a sweater, or to wear on its own with a pair of jeans or a skirt. I have my eye on the Swedish label’s short sleeve version, which is made from the same super-soft stretch cotton.
Elise Taylor, Living Writer
My wardrobe weak spot is shirts that are comfy enough to lay on the couch in, but also acceptable to wear during work Zoom meetings. Did I ever realize I’d have this extremely niche need? Nope, but here we are!
Enter A.P.C.’s Marina short-sleeve shirt. It’s made of 100% cotton, which makes it perfect for lazy lounging. The added collar makes me look like I have my act together. Which I don’t, by the way.
Jenna Rennert, Beauty Editor
This is hands down the best white T-shirt on the market—trust me, because I’ve tried them all. Not too tight, not too loose and it’s on sale for $13. What’s better than that?
Julie Tong, Commerce Editor
I love the softness of this classic Vince tee that is perfect for layering underneath light sweaters or to wear on its own during warm spring days. While we’re all at home, I’ve been reaching for this cozy tee time and time again. It strikes the right balance between comfort and style for my newfound work from home life. Bonus, you can shop it on sale.
