A White Shirt Is a Year-Round Staple I Can’t Live Without — These Are the Ones I Rate

No capsule wardrobe is complete without a trench coat, the perfect pair of jeans, and – of course – a white shirt (or five).

Known for its enduring status as a timeless classic, the beauty of the white shirt lies in its multiple forms and, crucially, its ability to be dressed up or down. Button it to the neck beneath a trouser suit or wear it atop a vest with denim shorts. You could also buy a classic button-down a few sizes larger, belt it at the waist, and you have a chic mini dress. Find one with an oversized collar or artfully placed embroidery, and it instantly elevates favourite denim.

Undeniably, a finely starched cotton shirt has corporate undertones – but over the last year, thanks to the office siren trend, we're leaning into that with sleekly fitted styles. This season, the look was spotted on the runways at Saint Laurent, Miu Miu, Stella McCartney, Chanel, Balenciaga, and many more, paving the way for plenty of styling inspiration for office dressing, weekends in the city, and, when the time comes, beachside cover-ups.

From crisp cotton button-downs and breezy linen styles to shirts with blouson sleeves and contemporary detailing, you can't go wrong by investing in a white shirt. Whether you're seeking your first of many or searching for a twist on the wardrobe staple, we've rounded up 20 of the very best white shirts to shop now.

Classic

You can't go wrong with a classic white shirt. Opt for one slightly oversized and wear it with everything from wool trousers to straight-leg jeans. Add a statement bangle over the cuff for a chic accent.

Blouson Sleeves

A gathered sleeve adds a little romance to the humble white shirt. This style is the perfect partner to low-slung linen trousers or vintage-wash jeans. A frill detail or pie-crust collar lends a retro touch, which I'm always here for.

Fitted

We have the office siren trend (popularised by TikTok) to thank for the return of the fitted shirt. No longer reserved for the boardroom, 2026's iteration is best styled with baggy jeans or a maxi skirt.

Elevated Detailing

The devil is in the detail; think white shirts with artful pleats, embroidery or ties instead of buttons. Rethink the classic silhouette, too, considering wrap or tie-front styles to reinvigorate workwear.

Linen

Easy, breezy, and oh-so-chic, the linen shirt is a summer essential. And although we're still a couple of months away from warmer temperatures, it's always better to be prepared.

Do like content creator Neelam Gill and wear it half-tucked into a tailored skirt, or bring it with you in your suitcase for styling over a bikini and with frayed-hem shorts. Just remember to bring a steamer.