Nordic brands knows their workwear basics, and the white T-shirt is definitely a hard working closet staple. Here, Vogue Scandinavia picks the best white tees to shop and style now
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No matter the season, certain closet staples have cemented their place in our wardrobe rotations. Just like a pair of perfectly fitting jeans or an expertly tailored blazer, the white T-shirt is a building block of the universal uniform.
The beauty of a white t-shirt is in its blank-slate appeal. Whether you take inspiration from James Dean's rolled-up sleeves in Rebel Without a Cause to Jane Brikin's denim and [T-shirt] formula (https://www.voguescandinavia.com/articles/the-baby-t-is-the-basic-we-need-this-season-according-to-scandi-street-stylers) styled with stacked heels and her signature straw bag.
A timeless, trend-transcending top, the white T-shirt is a certified sartorial hero with the sartorial superpowers to dress down silk slips and suits for the perfect sought-after off-duty look.
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Which Scandinavian brands are the best when buying white T-shirts?
Just like jeans are in our genes, Nordic brands have perfected the art of crafting the white T-shirt. With unisex fits and high-quality, 100 percent recycled cotton, Scandinavian brands like COS, Bite Studios, and Toteme excel in creating timeless wardrobe staples. For those seeking a white T-shirt that's anything but basic, we recommend exploring the unique offerings from Henrik Vibskov, ACNE Studios, and Eytys.
Below, we've curated the top 18 white T-shirts from Scandinavian brands that you need to buy now:
Filippa K was founded to solve the stress of getting dressed — maybe that's why they've perfected the white T-shirt? Made in 100 per cent cotton, this straight-fit round-neck classic tucks easily into a pair of tailored trousers. Filippa K recently welcomed a new creative director, Anna Teurnell, and we are thrilled to see her take on the timeless top.
COS' curated closet staples are a favourite among the fashion crowd for a reason. Effortless, price-worthy, well-made and durable: The heavyweight from 100 per cent cotton means that the T-shirt falls just so while the crew-neck cut is a true classic.
Timeless, elegant, and feminine are the lead words for House of Dagmar's design aesthetics. The effortless sophistication of their classic white T-shirt is no exception. The heavyweight organic cotton jersey makes this style perfect for daily wear.
Ganni continues its sustainable journey with the ultimate classic cotton T-shirt. True to size, this loose-sleeved top is not for the sartorially faint of heart, with a rhinestone logo that puts the edge in everyday style.
Are you tired of T-shirts turning yellow? This one promises to stay white for longer. Part of Arket's Jersey Yarn Project, it features a regular fit of single jersey and ribbed piping around the crew neck.
Toteme and white T-shirts feel like a match made in heaven. For a brand that aims to create a wardrobe packed with elevated basics for the modern woman, it's only natural that they have perfected the perfect white T-shirt.
Acne Studios has perfected the off-duty look, and this white-on-white design is definitely part of it. Adorned with the label's Face appliqué logo for instant recognition, it's a minimalist take on branded T-shirts.
Few basics have become more fixed in our minds than H&M's white T-shirts. The Swedish highstreet brand is a master of wallet-friendly cotton classics, and this straight style with a slightly wider round neck is a perfect example.
Swedish brand Movesgood made a name for itself by setting up stores in airports around the globe, offering high-quality basics for people on the go. Made from eco-friendly bamboo lyocell, this white tee lays the perfect base for almost any outfit.
While purists may argue that logo or slogan tees are not actual basics, we are bound to disagree. Just look at Danish designer Henrik Vibskov's 'unboxing'; Boasting designs on the front and the back, it takes white T-shirts beyond the basics.
The ’Leon’ T-shirt, designed by Swedish brand Eytys, is made for easy layering. It has a mock-neck collar and short sleeves. Made in Portugal from 100 per cent organic cotton, this relaxed unisex style — slimmer around the waist and with loose sleeves — comes in a soft white cotton jersey.
True white doesn't necessarily fit all skin tones, and that's why we love this off-white version from the Danish brand By Malene Birger. Tailored for a tight fit, this simple T-shirt has reinforced stitching along the seams for durability and is spun with environmentally friendly organic cotton for softness. Wear yours solo or layered with tailoring.
There's a reason why the Lili tee is one of Anine Bing's best-selling styles. Slightly sheer, the oversized silhouettes begs to be layered over a black lace bralette and paired with a pair of leather trousers for a night out.
Danish cool-girl label Rotate knows their way around a T-shirt. The boxy fit made from organic cotton adds a laid-back feel to the casual basic. Labelled with the brand's logo, it works just as well when worn in the office or on a lazy Sunday on the couch.
The wider neck and looser fit of Weekday's white T-shirt boasts that off-duty ease we're looking for. Made from jersey with a hint of elastane, the result is a soft tee to tuck into sweatpants or a silk skirt.
Stylein's loose-fit t-shirt, Nickie, with elbow-length sleeves, is inspired by the brand's best-seller, Chambers. Because why change a winning concept? The updated version has a ribbed texture and can, therefore, easily work for both daytime and nighttime events.
BITE Studios has finally presented its interpretation of the perfect white T-shirt. The result? An organic cotton crew-neck design with loose sleeves and a slightly cropped waist. Was it worth the wait? Most certainly.
Low-key logomania may sound like an impossible feat, but Baum Und Pferdgarten balances the two diametrically opposed ideas perfectly with their embossed Jiana t-shirt.
How do you style a white T-shirt?
As we've already established, the timeless and versatile white T-shirt is a must-have in every wardrobe due to its incredible versatility. Whether serving as a blank canvas for your no-nonsense nightwear, gym gear, the base of your office outfit, or for a dinner event, the white T-shirt transitions from day to night and season to season, making it an indispensable piece for fashion enthusiasts and minimalists alike.
For day-to-day styling, we follow the lead of supermodels and their off-duty outfits. Take inspiration from Elsa Hosk and pair a perfectly slouchy T-shirt with a vintage leather jacket, loafers, and loose-fit low-slung jeans— the perfect look for a lazy weekend. Sport your white T-shirt with a mini skirt and oversized blazer for evenings out.
As for office wear, the white T-shirt can be your best friend when creating an array of polished looks. Tuck it into a high-waisted pencil skirt, tailored trousers, or a slouchy suit paired with crisp white trainers for a contemporary take on business casual.
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What makes a T-shirt good quality?
"When determining whether a T-shirt is high quality, some people consider the fabric, while others look at the thread count, and some focus on the experience of wearing it. There are many ways to measure the quality of a T-shirt. A good place to start is by asking yourself some questions: What is the T-shirt made of? How and where is the T-shirt made? Who made it? How long will it last you?"
A crucial factor to consider is the cost per wear. White T-shirts are a staple item that we like to stock up on (preferably in bulk), and so we want to find a great deal. However, in the long run, spending a little extra on a well-made t-shirt may actually save you money.
How do you avoid see-through white T-shirts?
If you want your bra to remain hidden, consider using heavy-weight, 100 per cent cotton fabric. If you still have problems, or if you prefer a lighter layer, the key is to choose the right underwear. Look for a well-fitting T-shirt bra or camisole in a color similar to your own skin tone. However, there are times when a hint of black lace or scrappy lingerie underneath a white T-shirt can be undeniable sexy. It all depends on the occasion and making conscious decisions.