We've Collectively Tried Hundreds of T-Shirts, and These 5 Are Easily the Best

I'll state the obvious—T-shirts are the backbone of our wardrobes year-round. But still, it's incredibly hard to find that perfect one with the right silhouette and fit. Lucky for you, we've gone through hundreds of T-shirts over the years to solidify our favorite brands and styles. There has been a good bit of trial and error along the way, but we've found the ones that offer maximum style with minimal effort. 

As simple as they are, T-shirts are difficult to get just right, but our team is here to divulge the brands that have succeeded in checking the boxes of comfort and style. Below, shop our top-favorite T-shirts (we shop all day for a living, meaning you can trust us), and we know they'll become staples in your wardrobe, too. A T-shirt is an everyday essential, so once you get the right one, we can also predict there will be a lot of effortless yet chic outfits in your future. 

1. Uniqlo AIRism Cotton Oversized Crew Neck Half-Sleeve T-Shirt

"I swear by this oversize Uniqlo T-shirt. It's the one tee I routinely get compliments on because of the design and fit. The boxier cut and the long sleeves give it a modern feel. It also has the perfect amount of structure and a defined neckline that gives it a designer feel, even though it rings in under $20. I have a stack of tees on rotation in black and white, but I want to add more colors to my offering for summer." — Bobby Schuessler, market director

2. Madewell Brightside Tee

"I'm a huge fan of Madewell's Brightside tee, which I wear on heavy rotation year-round. It's made from the softest rib fabric and has a stretchy, fitted silhouette perfect for layering. It has a vintage vibe and is perfect paired with high-waisted loose jeans or a denim maxi skirt. It feels elevated yet effortless. And most importantly, it's comfortable!" — Judith Jones, senior market editor

3. Free People Clean Lines Long Sleeve

"I'm not the biggest fan of tees. For years I did not own any because I didn't find the oversize fit flattering (for me, at least). But that changed when, on a whim, I tried this shirt from Free People. What I love about it compared to other tops is that it's so flattering—it has long sleeves, a built-in bra with a sultry scoop neck, and is made from a stretchy jersey, so it's fitted but not too tight. It's basically a more formal version of a T-shirt for the girlies who don't typically like them." — Jasmine Fox-Suliaman, editor

4. Gap Modern Crewneck T-Shirt

"There's only one white tee that I buy over and over again, and it's the Modern Crewneck T-Shirt from the Gap. I find myself reaching for it multiple times a week, so naturally, I own it in multiple colors. Bonus points for being under $25. It hits at just the right length, so I can easily tuck it into my pants without any bunching. It's super soft and breathable without feeling too lightweight or sheer. I wear this style all year round as a layering piece or on its own, and I will never stop buying it." — Aniyah Morinia, branded content editor

5. Uniqlo Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirt

"I've been on the hunt for a great basic T-shirt for years and discovered this Uniqlo style through the recommendation of some fashion editors last year. Designed by Christophe Lemaire at Uniqlo's Paris Research and Development Center, this is anything but an ordinary tee—from the cut to the fabric, everything about this $15 shirt feels elevated far beyond its price point." — Kristen Nichols, special projects director

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Next up: Here's How to Wear a Comfy, Giant T-Shirt and Still Look Stylish (Seriously)