I think we can all agree that a white T-shirt is a fail-safe wardrobe essential, but if I'm honest, it's an item I shamelessly take for granted.
The truth is, the trusted white tee is more than just a basic layering item to hide underneath other clothes and is actually often the key piece to help us complete an outfit, hence why it deserves more credit than it gets.
Of course, a T-shirt is perfect for layering under jumpers or cardigans for extra coverage, warmth or style points; and a crisp white tee can also provide the necessary contrast to make a block-colour jumper or a printed skirt pop. But it can also take centre stage when worn on its own. Whether with a pair of timeless jeans, tailored trousers or a satin slip skirt, I can guarantee a white tee will go perfectly.
White T-shirts come in a variety of shapes, styles and fabrics, which means we can get even more creative when styling the staple. If you want a popular boxy fit, an oversized or longline version, a slim-fit basic or a cropped style, there are plenty to choose from, and that's before we get onto necklines. Typically, many opt for a classic crew neck, but you can also go for a V-neck, scoop or boat neck with any outfit. Fabric-wise, most can be found in 100% cotton, a blend of fabrics or sculpting lycra, and some are opaque, whilst others are more sheer. Suffice it to say that finding your perfect match can be tricky.
But no matter the exact tee you choose, there's no denying the versatility of this timeless staple when you realise just how hard it works. So, in honour of this, the ultimate basic, I've pulled together eight chic and effortless white T-shirt outfit ideas to inspire your styling.
8 Chic Outfits With a White T-Shirt
1. White T-Shirt + Blue Jeans + Kitten Heels + Wool Coat
Style Notes: A white T-shirt and jeans outfit is a classic combination and one of my go-to looks. It's a simple formula to easily adapt for every season. Follow Sylvie Mus (pictured above) and layer a timeless wool coat over your tee in the colder months for extra warmth. If you're heading to the office, for after-work drinks or on an upcoming date night, pair the look with heels (I recommend a sophisticated pointed-toe style) and statement jewellery to elevate.
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The high round neck combined with the longer sleeves and the extra length in the body make this T-shirt perfect for tucking into trousers, jeans and skirts.
The Frankie Shop is known for its super-chic oversized fits.
A pair of pointed-toe slingback kitten heels will serve your wardrobe so well, and the lower heel is ideal if you're a little unsteady in higher heels.
2. White T-Shirt + Wool Dress + Bomber Jacket + Loafers
Style Notes: Layering a tee under a dress not only ensures extra warmth but also adds dimension to an outfit—not to mention it's a genius style hack to get more wear out of your summer dresses. Layer a white T-shirt under a satin slip dress to take the dress from summer to autumn or from night out to office-appropriate.
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This clean-cut short-sleeved tee is available in 11 colours.
This knitted dress can of course be worn on its own, but a white tee underneath will lighten up the grey around your face.
This jacket has lived in my head rent-free for a while now.
Leather loafers are a footwear classic, and this Marks and Spencer pair are ultra-soft and comfortable, even after hours on your feet.
3. White T-Shirt + Blazer + Heeled Ankle Boots
Style Notes: Whatever the season, a white T-shirt, blazer, jeans and heeled boots is a timeless combination I swear by—it's such an easy way to look sophisticated with minimal effort. You can swap the boots for trainers, pumps, loafers or sandals and experiment with blazers in different colours, cuts and even prints.
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The cotton and silk blend makes for a super-soft tee with a premium finish.
I live in blazers all year long, simply by alternating between a wool version in the winter, a pastel hue in the spring and a lightweight linen style for a chilly summer evening. This chocolate-brown one is a favourite right now.
If you want to keep the chill at bay, simply tie a bold-coloured jumper around your shoulders.
The versatility of ankle boots knows no bounds. Toteme's are completely classic and will take you from day to night, from the office to a dinner date and just about anywhere else.
4. White T-Shirt + Wide-Leg Jeans + Trainers + Suede Jacket
Style Notes: Suede jackets are huge right now, and the secret to making yours stand out is layering a fresh white T-shirt underneath. Style with wide-leg jeans and trainers to nail a chic off-duty look.
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I swear by M&S for basics, and I'm not the only one. Fellow devotees have hailed this the "best T-shirt", though many recommend sizing up.
The high-waisted fit is designed to flatter the waist, whilst the wide legs skim the thighs to give the illusion of longer limbs.
You can button up this lightweight suede jacket, but I recommend leaving it open to glimpse the white tee underneath.
Take a cue from the fashion set with some animal-print trainers, which will instantly add character to any outfit. The neutral tones of this pair will complement any colour scheme, making for easy styling.
5. White T-Shirt + V-Neck Jumper + Satin Trousers + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Personally, I think a white tee with a pair of elegant trousers, flat shoes and a slim-fit jumper is ideal office attire. It's a comfortable and effortless look that has just the right amount of polish.
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This cotton crew-neck tee offers a softer finish compared to more structured styles, with a slight taper to the waist.
Choose a crew-neck tee to wear under your V-neck jumpers rather than matching the neckline.
Whether you opt for a pair of silky satin trousers or something more tailored, a white tee is a perfect match.
Ballet flats come in all shapes and sizes, but I'm particularly fond of the strap across the bridge of the foot on this pair.
6. White T-Shirt + A-Line Midi Skirt + Trainers
Style Notes: From denim to slip and bubble hems, soon it'll be warm enough to break out our skirts. My personal favourite is an A-line midi design because it provides a little more coverage for a tall girlie like me, and always looks effortlessly chic. Pair with a fitted white tee to contrast the billowing shape.
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There are few fashion dilemmas worse than a see-through white tee (unless that's the look you're going for). Weekday's is nice and opaque.
The deep V-front waistband is ultra-flattering and a clever way to exaggerate the shape of the skirt.
Shoulder bags are still having a moment. This classic Gucci design in the brand's signature neutral colour palette will complement any outfit, and the adjustable straps allow for a secure fit under your arm.
These trainers will work with so many outfits.
7. White T-Shirt + Satin Slip Skirt + Sandals
Style Notes: The elegant satin slip skirt first made its way into my wardrobe circa 2018, and it's proved to be a popular go-to ever since. Wear it in the summer with a lightweight, loose-fit white tee à la Salomé Mory, (pictured above), or opt for a longline version to layer over a figure-hugging skirt. Alternatively, throw on a cable-knit jumper and trade your bare legs and sandals for a pair of opaque tights and chunky boots come winter.
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A T-shirt with a loose fit and a bit of movement is best suited to summer.
Re-creating this outfit requires minimal effort, but you can make it a little more interesting with this pretty polka-dot skirt.
The Row's Ginza sandals are a fashion-person favourite. They're comfortable, practical and an elevated alternative to a simple flip-flop.
Strathberry handbags are a bit of an in-the-know secret. Wear this raffia style crossbody with the long leather strap, slip it over the shoulder or simply hold the top handle.
8. White T-Shirt + Shorts + Flats
Style Notes: Whilst I love jeans all year round, sometimes they're too restrictive on a balmy summer day. The alternative? Denim shorts, of course. Go super-short or choose a more relaxed pair of jorts instead, and play around with a boxy cropped tee, which you can size up for a slouchy, summery look.
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I love the cut of Agolde's Parker Denim Shorts, which cinch in the waist before flaring out at the hips ever so slightly to avoid clinging to the body.
It's a best-seller for a reason!
A bold belt is one of the oldest tricks in the styling book, and the style set is coveting Khaite's Benny belt hard right now.
I love a strappy sandal that secures my feet in place, allows them to breathe and provides some elevation. Plus, they feel a little more dressy than a flip-flop or trainer.
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