Building a capsule wardrobe is all about sourcing high-quality basics, from that perfect pair of jeans to an all-seasons trench coat. But tracking down the pieces that sit in that sweet spot of affordable without feeling cheap can be a little tricky. This is never more evident than in our (eternal) hunt for the ultimate white T-shirt.
For such a simple staple, there's a surprising amount to consider. The crew-neck needs to hit just right. The silhouette can't be too boxy and oversized, but equally not too fitted. And don't even get us started on sleeve length.
How to wear yours – once secured – is a no-brainer. It doesn't get more classic than a white tee and blue jeans combo, but it works just as well layered under and on top of any number of ensembles, from knitwear to dresses (if you want to channel a Y2K look). Paired with a satin slip skirt and left untucked, a white T-shirt successfully dresses down the semi-formal separate, for example. Styled under a blazer, it achieves a fresh, crisp and contemporary look, effortlessly balancing the tailoring's structure and stuffiness.
When it comes to finding the perfect pick for summer, you can't beat this Slim Fit Slub Crew T-Shirt from Hush. It comes in a slightly closer-fitting cut for a feminine fit without being clingy, and the sleeves flatteringly finish right at the top of your bicep, which helps to make arms look slimmer. Made from 100% cotton, it's lightweight and breathable – two non-negotiables for tackling the impending heatwave in style – and isn't remotely see-through.
The best part is easily its price tag, though. Without sounding like a cliché, you get what you pay for, and coming in at just under £30, you can rest assured you're getting top-quality. You really shouldn't have to spend a penny more for a premium white tee.
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Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
