A Classic White T-Shirt Is the Best Winter Styling Piece

This basic is the secret ingredient to creating the perfect outfit.

collage of women wearing white t-shirts
(Image credit: Launchmetrics)

Take a peek inside the winter capsule wardrobe of any style maven, and you’re bound to find an assortment of white T-shirts. From oversized to form-fitted alternatives, this streamlined style is a versatile layering piece that can compliment just about any look, whether worn beneath a cozy cashmere cardigan or a snug sweater.

As simple as a white T-shirt might be, finding the perfect one can pose a bit of a challenge. With so many options on the market—between designer options that whisper “quiet luxury” and styles that fall toward the more casual end of the spectrum—sifting through the endless sea of choices might throw you into a loop of indecision. Lucky for you, we can help simplify the process.

As a fashion editor who owns way too many white T-shirts to count, I consider myself an expert on the topic and know a thing or two about which tees are actually worth your hard-earned cash. Ahead, discover my tried-and-trues from brands like COS, & Other Stories, and J.Crew and pieces that have found a special spot on my wishlist from designers like The Row, Toteme, and Nili Lotan.

Best Classic White T-Shirts

woman wearing white T-shirt, blazer, jeans, and sandals

Lean into a polished look by teaming your white tee with a sharp blazer and pair of flared bottoms.

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It doesn't get much simpler than a regular-fit white T-shirt. Defined by its easygoing silhouette, it showcases a shape that strikes the right balance. COS, Madewell, and Toteme offer a range of clean-cut designs under $100. If you’re not opposed to splurging, consider The Row’s Wesler top that checks the “investment” box.

Best Oversized White T-Shirts

woman wearing white t-shirt, skirt, jacket, and boots

Looking to make a statement? Go ahead and style your baggy top with a pair of extra-wide boots. Throw a hefty jacket over your shoulders for warmth.

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These days, the fashion set is head over heels for baggy jeans that sweep the floor and oversized sweaters that drape below the waist. Play into the loose-fitting trend with a voluminous white tees from Aritzia, The Frankie Shop, Reiss, and Ganni.

Best Cropped White T-Shirts

woman wearing white t shirt, coat, jeans, and mesh ballet flats

Balance out your slim baby tee with a flowy coat and a pair of slouchy bottoms.

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Slip into a midriff-baring baby tee for a crop fit. This iconic ‘90s shirt seems to be making its way around the trend cycle once again. Test-drive the look with tops from Rag & Bone, & Other Stories, Agolde, and J.Crew. To give it a grown-up boost, try pairing this style with separates that deliver a bit more coverage, like high-waisted pants and roomy outerwear.

Best Fitted White T-Shirts

woman wearing fitted white t-shirt, button-down shirt, jeans and flats

This straightforward uniform composed of wardrobe basics will turn you into a shameless outfit repeater.

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If you want a tighter fit, slip into a tee that molds to your form. The tops below from A.L.C., Nili Lotan, Good American, and Theory will seamlessly fit beneath any pullover, or go the extra mile and pile on a few more layers to make a shirt sandwich.

Best Long-Sleeved White T-Shirts

woman wearing a white t shirt and leather pants

A toasty long-sleeved white tee is an absolute essential during the colder months.

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In the face of frigid temperature dips, opt for a white T-shirt that offers more protection. Vince, Skims, Alo Yoga, and Everlane offer long-sleeved tops that will look great beneath any barn jacket or teddy coat.

Lauren Tappan
Fashion Editor

Lauren is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes trend reports, shopping pieces, and celebrity news stories. Prior to Marie Claire, Lauren worked for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE as a freelance editor with a specific focus on seasonal styles and coveted products. She also worked for Town & Country, where she developed a robust portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.

Lauren graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in communications and a minor in journalism. While attending Penn, Lauren contributed to the university's fashion magazine, The Walk, while also interning for Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.

When she’s not exploring the world of fashion, you can find Lauren sharpening her skills as DJ, discovering new restaurants in New York City (she’s a foodie), and spending quality time with friends and family. Follow her along at @laurenktappan.