I'm an editor with a white T-shirt addiction – these are the best ones to buy now

No matter the season, the white T-shirt will always be one of the most essential and versatile items in our wardrobe. It works like a blank page, and from there, the outfit can go in almost any direction. It has a place everywhere: in the office, at the gym, as sleepwear, or dressed up for an evening out.

Everyone needs at least one good white T-shirt. A classic cotton version should always be the foundation of a wardrobe. From there, it comes down to proportion. If you tend to wear fitted silhouettes, a close-cut T-shirt that hits the waistband works best. If you lean more relaxed, boxier or oversized styles feel more natural. Sizing up often changes everything. And even though my own white T-shirt collection is solid, I always gravitate towards my boyfriend's wardrobe and end up borrowing one of his, which is usually a sign that the men's section is worth exploring for a more relaxed fit through the shoulders and sleeves.

But because it is such a reliable staple, finding the right one is harder than it sounds.

As someone slightly obsessed with white T-shirts, I have spent years trying to find the perfect versions for different looks. And as a minimalist, details matter more than anything: the quality, the fit, the length. Crewneck, scoop neck, V-neck. Sheer or structured. Fitted or oversized. The list goes on. I have collected more white T-shirts than I probably need for a lifetime, but each serves a different purpose. And all of that research has helped me narrow down the list to the tried-and-tested best white T-shirts down below.

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Not necessarily. Plenty of the best white T-shirts are affordable and often last longer than more expensive versions. What matters is the fabric, fit and construction. A well-made basic will always outperform a poorly made designer piece.

That said, if you already have the basics covered, a more elevated version can be worth investing in, especially if you are looking for a specific cut or finish. A white T-shirt will never go out of style, so the value lies in how often you will actually wear it.

Once you have decided on fit, fabric becomes the next important consideration. It defines how the T-shirt feels, drapes and ages over time.

• Lightweight cotton: Airy and breathable, ideal for layering or warmer months.

• Heavyweight cotton: Holds its shape better and creates a more structured silhouette.

• Jersey cotton: Softer and more fluid on the body, with a naturally relaxed drape.

• Pima cotton: A finer, stronger cotton with a smooth, elevated finish and increased durability.

• Supima cotton: A more premium version of pima, with an even silkier hand feel against the skin.

The material is what ultimately determines how a white T-shirt behaves in real life. Comfort, softness and longevity matter just as much as appearance.

Even if you already have a plain white T-shirt in your wardrobe, it is never a bad idea to have a second one. Personally, I am always looking for versions that are simple but still get every detail right. Dhoemi's version is currently high on my wishlist. The structured organic cotton holds its shape beautifully, while the slightly longer back adds subtle definition. Depending on the look you want, sizing up or down completely changes the feel of it.

Then there is the ultimate classic crewneck from Asket. The relaxed straight cut provides that effortless everyday look, and the option to choose between different lengths makes it feel even more considered. It is the kind of white T-shirt you end up wearing with everything. Again. And again. And again.

Over time, I have really come to appreciate the small differences in fabric and fit. How a boxier, more structured cotton hangs completely differently from a softer lightweight version. It is now one of my favourite types of T-shirts to wear, simply because it gives me confidence. One thing I always pay attention to is the length. There is a very specific awkward point that cuts across the middle of the hip or bottom, and it never quite works. The best ones either fall just below or have a boxier cut that ends cleanly at the hips.

If you don't want anything too tight or simply prefer a little more room, these two get it exactly right. Rùadh's tee has the perfect oversized shape with longer sleeves and split sides that is perfect when you want the ideal tuck. Once on, it immediately gives you that cool-girl feel. For something more subtle that still has enough room to style multiple ways, Filippa K's version is a great option. It is sturdy, relaxed without swallowing you up, and if you want an even looser fit, simply size up.

The fitted white T-shirt takes us straight back to the 1990s, a decade fashion still returns to for good reason. It was simplicity at its best. Worn with capri pants, printed trousers or cargos, the fitted white tee showed up everywhere. And no one made the case better than Kate Moss, who still defines the look to this day.

This longer version from Calvin Klein Collection is a perfect example. The ribbed texture adds structure and helps it sit close to the body, making it ideal for tucking into jeans with a belt. For a more modern take, & Other Stories offers a slightly cropped version in soft cotton jersey that works beautifully layered under V-neck knitwear or styled with a slip skirt.

Another personal favourite is the scoop neck. There is something superbly flattering about it. The deeper neckline adds allure, making such a relaxed top surprisingly easy to transition into the evening.

This version from Massimo Dutti, with elbow-length sleeves and a wide, relaxed silhouette, creates a beautifully balanced shape that works just as well dressed up as it does for a day at the office. For a more fitted take, this scoop-neck style from Malene Birger has a figure-hugging cut and wider sleeves that create a strong, sculptural silhouette. Pair with a statement necklace and you've got the easiest day-to-night ensemble.

The white V-neck T-shirt is making a comeback, after what feels like years of being considered firmly "out". And honestly, it is not that surprising. The difference now is in the styling. Deep, chest-baring cuts feel dated, while softer, higher V-necks have a modern athletic appeal.

This James Perse T-shirt is such a good layering piece. It has that slightly sheer, worn-in quality that instantly feels vintage, with a softer V-neck that is not too low. Styled with a contrasting bra underneath, it leans into that easy French off-duty mood, especially when worn under an open oversized shirt with jeans. For a more classic take, Cos offers a clean, structured V-neck that sits closer to the body, with a neckline that feels simple, sharp and easy to wear on repeat.

The white T-shirt with a twist is for when the basics are already covered, or for when you simply want your everyday uniform to feel a little more interesting. It is perfect for those who have an event looming, but feels most comfortable in a white T-shirt and jeans.

This Toteme version with a tie waist is a perfect example. You can leave it loose for an easy silhouette or cinch it at the waist for a more defined shape. Then there is H&M's take, with subtle shoulder pads and a waist twist that really pulls everything together.

What's a list listing the best white tees without a good white graphic T-shirt? It just has that cool-girl energy, the kind you see in celebrity off-duty street style, where the T-shirt almost blends into the person because it feels personal and perfectly suited to the wearer.

When looking for the right one, it is worth choosing something you actually stand behind, or at least something you will not get tired of quickly. I also always come back to vintage graphic T-shirts. They have that worn-in feel that makes them better: softer fabric, better drape and a natural ease on the body. This Coca-Cola tee from Broadways & Sons is a great example, and their selection of vintage graphic T-shirts is always worth checking. Just be quick, they tend to sell out fast.

Care is often what makes the biggest difference. Wash at lower temperatures, avoid high heat in the dryer and treat stains as soon as they appear. A steamer is also a simple trick that instantly refreshes a white T-shirt and makes it look newly worn. Small habits like this extend the life of even the most basic pieces.

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