Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (2024)

The T-shirt isn't just a bona fide menswear icon, it's an avatar of American cool that's managed to catapult beyond its humble beginnings. Show me one person you know without at least one T-shirt in their rotation, and I will show you someone who is lying to you, my guy. And when it comes to tees, there is no version more elemental, more perfectly distilled, than the plain white T-shirt.

All of which is to say, if you're one of those people who considers himself somehow above or beyond the white tee, you might want to reconsider. Simply consider the utility of the white T-shirt in your wardrobe and realize, yeah, it might be good to have one—or a few!—of those in rotation. After all, the options when it comes to this particular garment at this particular point in time are pretty much endless. There's pocket tees and curved-hem tees and boxy tees and organic cotton tees and good-old-fashioned crewnecks at your disposal, so you really should be able to find something that strikes your fancy.

In fact, there's so much going on in the white-T-shirt world right now that the biggest hurdle might not be deciding that you want one but deciding which one you want. That's where the list below comes into play. Whatever you're looking to buy, though, start here, with the 16 best white T-shirts.

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Best Cult-Classic White T-Shirt

Comfort Colors Short-Sleeve T-Shirt

Best Cult-Classic White T-Shirt

Comfort Colors Short-Sleeve T-Shirt

Now 40% Off

Comfort Colors might be the T-shirt blank of choice for many of the best brands around, but even sans customization its signature tee holds up.

MaterialCotton
FitRegular
SizesS-4XL

Best Curved-Hem T-Shirt

Buck Mason Slub Curved Hem Tee

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (13)

Best Curved-Hem T-Shirt

Buck Mason Slub Curved Hem Tee

Buck Mason is beloved by T-shirt enthusiasts (a particularly opinionated group) for its precisely cut, curved-hem tee, typically rendered in a slub cotton you'd swear has been broken in for years.

MaterialCotton
FitRounded
SizesXS-2XL

Most Comfortable White T-Shirt

Standard Issue Standard Tee (3-Pack)

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (14)

Most Comfortable White T-Shirt

Standard Issue Standard Tee (3-Pack)

Standard Issue's tees are immediately identifiable by the feel of the hefty cotton the brand uses and the craftsmanship that goes into each and every (made-in-the-USA) style.

MaterialCotton
FitClassic
Weight10 oz
SizesXS-2XL

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Best Organic White T-Shirt

Everlane Organic Cotton Crew

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (15)

Best Organic White T-Shirt

Everlane Organic Cotton Crew

Now 70% Off

Everlane specializes in wardrobe staples, so it should come as no surprise that the DTC darling does one hell of a white tee. The latest version of the brand's core style is made from organic cotton and cut to skim (not strangle) your torso.

MaterialCotton
FitSlim
SizesXS-2XL

Best White Pocket T-Shirt

Mott & Bow Heavyweight Pocket Tee

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (16)

Best White Pocket T-Shirt

Mott & Bow Heavyweight Pocket Tee

Now 30% Off

Mott & Bow's tees fit just like the brand's jeans (that's to say, pretty damn perfectly).

MaterialCotton
FitRegular
Weight8.3 oz
SizesXS-2XL

Best Classic White T-Shirt

Velva Sheen Regular Tee

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (17)

Best Classic White T-Shirt

Velva Sheen Regular Tee

Sure, Velva Sheen's tees are made using tubular-knit construction, a costly and somewhat technical process that yields a shirt with no side seams (a throwback to an earlier era of manufacturing), but all you really need to know is that they're some of the comfiest you've ever felt.

MaterialCotton
FitRegular
SizesS-XL

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Most Durable White T-Shirt

Reigning Champ T-Shirt (2-Pack)

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (18)

Most Durable White T-Shirt

Reigning Champ T-Shirt (2-Pack)

Reigning Champ consistently churns out some of the sturdiest tees around. A pack of two is double the fun.

MaterialCotton
FitStraight
SizesXS-2XL

Best Everyday White T-Shirt

Lululemon The Fundamental T-Shirt

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (19)

Best Everyday White T-Shirt

Lululemon The Fundamental T-Shirt

Reading is what? Fundamental. And so is this aptly titled shirt from the always-dependable Lululemon.

MaterialCotton, nylon, lyocell, lycra
FitClassic
SizesXS-5XL

Best Basic White T-Shirt

Uniqlo Supima Cotton Crew Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirt

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (20)

Best Basic White T-Shirt

Uniqlo Supima Cotton Crew Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirt

When it comes to basics, Uniqlo is the all-time pro. And, really, what's more basic than a plain white tee?

MaterialCotton
FitRegular
Sizes2XS-3XL

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Best Regular-Fit White T-Shirt

Kotn Essential Crew T-Shirt

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (21)

Best Regular-Fit White T-Shirt

Kotn Essential Crew T-Shirt

If you like your T-shirts fitted—but not in the constricting way, of course—Kotn's white T-shirt, a regular-fit style made of cotton jersey (a fabric with natural elasticity), is just what you need.

MaterialCotton
FitRegular
Sizes2XS-3XL

Chicest White T-Shirt

Cuts Trim Fit Crewneck Cotton Blend T-Shirt

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (22)

Chicest White T-Shirt

Cuts Trim Fit Crewneck Cotton Blend T-Shirt

With a curved hem, this classic crewneck is a little bit chicer and classier.

MaterialPolyester, cotton, spandex
FitRounded
SizesS-2XL

Best 'Yes Chef' White T-Shirt

Merz b. Schwanen 215 LoopWheeled T-Shirt

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (23)

Best 'Yes Chef' White T-Shirt

Merz b. Schwanen 215 LoopWheeled T-Shirt

Go for the exact tee Carmy wears in The Bear. Yes, chef.

Material100% organic cotton
FitRegular
SizesS-2XL

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Best Antimicrobial White T-Shirt

Mack Weldon Silver V-Neck T-Shirt

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (24)

Best Antimicrobial White T-Shirt

Mack Weldon Silver V-Neck T-Shirt

There are just instances when you're in the same tee for longer than you might want to be. And when you find yourself in that predicament, you're going to need a white T-shirt that's comfortable and antimicrobial—two qualities that Mack Weldon does best.

MaterialCotton, polyester, lycra
FitSlim
SizesS-2XL

Best Lightweight White T-Shirt

James Perse Combed Cotton Jersey T-Shirt

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (25)

Best Lightweight White T-Shirt

James Perse Combed Cotton Jersey T-Shirt

A cotton-jersey blend makes this shirt extra comfortable for all day wear. Layer it under a jacket or wear it on its own.

MaterialCotton
FitRegular
SizesS-2XL (1-5)

Best Athletic White T-Shirt

Alo Yoga Conquer Reform Crewneck Short Sleeve

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (26)

Best Athletic White T-Shirt

Alo Yoga Conquer Reform Crewneck Short Sleeve

Upon first glance, it's just another white T-shirt. But it's breathable material makes it perfect for workouts, summer heat, and everyday errands.

MaterialPoly-spandex
FitRegular
SizesS-2XL

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Best Heavyweight White T-Shirt

Carhartt Heavyweight Pocket T-Shirt

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (27)

Best Heavyweight White T-Shirt

Carhartt Heavyweight Pocket T-Shirt

If you're looking for a tee that can stand up to anything you throw at it (in a perfectly loose fit), look no further. Carhartt has you covered.

MaterialCotton
FitLoose
SizesXS-5XL

What To Look For

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (28)

Cut: From big and beautifully boxy to long and slender, white T-shirts come in a range of silhouettes. If you like cling, slim cuts are for you. If you like loose, wear loose. It really all boils down to personal preference, your body type, and the kind of vibe you want to emit.

Material: Standard white T-shirts are made of cotton, of which there is a variety: organic, jersey, and, in some instances, sateen. There are also some options with linen blends, and others with tech fibers built for performance. Depending on what you're doing a where you're going, some of these options are better than others.

Weight: The choice in material will also determine the weight. If you like things light and breezy, cotton jersey and linen hit those targets. But if you like a bit of heft, look for styles with a thicker and tighter weave, which also tend to be the most flattering on the body.

Why You Can Trust Esquire

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (29)

We’re not going to say something is great unless it’s actually great. Every product in Esquire’s round-ups is carefully curated by our fashion and e-commerce teams.

When it comes to a classic white T-shirt, you can rest assured that we’re hand-selecting styles that we’ve personally tested, tried, and loved, along with styles that the rest of our stylish colleagues here at Esquire endorse. With endless options on the market, we’ve had to go through a lot of trial and error, and we narrowed it down to these white tees that are simply the best.

Every pick on this list (and our other lists!) comes from years of wearing different things, seeing what we love and what we don’t, and going from there. No two tastes are the same, and no two men are the same. Your proverbial mileage may vary. But if you’re looking for the right place to start, with advice from folks who and care (possibly too much!) about this sort of stuff, this is the place to be.

Every White T-Shirt You Could Ever Need (2024)

FAQs

Which Colour of T-shirt goes with everything? ›

A white t-shirt can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Here are a few reasons why a white t-shirt is a good choice: Versatility: White is a versatile color that pairs well with a wide range of other colors. It can be easily matched with different bottoms, including jeans, trousers, shorts, or skirts.

Who popularized the white T-shirt? ›

However, the real breakthrough of the history of the white T-Shirt started in the 1950s, when Marlon Brando wore the iconic white garment in a Streetcar named Desire and James Dean revolutionized the style of a whole generation in Rebel Without a Cause.

What white shirts are not see through? ›

These are the best white T-shirts that made the cut.
  • Buck Mason White Field-Spec Cotton Heavy Tee. ...
  • Madewell Women's Northside Vintage Tee. ...
  • True Classic White T-Shirt (3-Pack) ...
  • Quince Modal Scoop Neck T-Shirt. ...
  • Mack Weldon Pima Crew Neck T-Shirt. ...
  • Buck Mason Pima Boxy Crew T-Shirt. ...
  • Everlane Men's Premium-Weight Crew T-Shirt.
Jun 26, 2023

How many basic T-shirts are there? ›

I suggest you do not need more than 10. If you wear them to work (or use them for daily exercise), then that is one a day for two weeks, and then you do laundry at least once every two weeks. If you don't wear them daily, then you need less than 10.

What color looks good on everything? ›

White has been one of the most popular living room wall colors as of late because it goes with all. the. things. Literally.

What is the most attractive shirt color for men? ›

Conclusion. In the world of men's fashion, the white shirt reigns supreme as the most attractive choice. Its timeless elegance, versatility, and confidence-boosting qualities make it an essential piece in any man's wardrobe.

What does a white t-shirt symbolize? ›

Sixty years ago at a respectable party, someone in a white tee and jeans would have seemed like a half-dressed, proletariat maniac. But what was once disreputable has become ubiquitous and the white tee, has gone from a symbol of radical counter-culture to beyond basic.

Who wore the first t-shirt? ›

The T-shirt started as an item of underwear - in the 19th Century the t-shirt was born when labourers in America cut their jumpsuits in half to cope with the summer heat. Although they were starting to be manufactured in1898, the T-shirt really made it in 1913 when it became standard issue in the US Navy's uniform.

What does a white t-shirt mean? ›

The sense of seduction here is subdued, but undeniable. Once more, the white shirt is both free spirited and bohemian as well as rigid and proper.

What color bra is invisible under white shirt? ›

A nude bra is the go-to solution for a no-show bra look under a white tee. It will essentially be just like a second skin and practically invisible under a white shirt. That said, it's important to find a neutral-colored bra that matches your daughter's skin tone.

What color bra can be seen under white shirt? ›

A bra in the color of your skin tone should be in every woman's wardrobe. Underneath white or light clothing it will essentially be undetectable. The closer to your skin tone the better.

What do you wear under a white shirt? ›

Camisole or Tank Top

Layering a camisole or tank top under a sheer or low-cut white blouse can add extra coverage and prevent transparency.

What is the rule of 5 in fashion? ›

The rule of 5 rules

Some say second hand purchases count, some say you can buy a few second hand pieces (between 5 and 10). Tiffanie suggests the following: You can buy no more than 5 items this year (clue's in the title, duh) Socks, undies, tights, etc don't count (but obviously don't go crazy)

What is the most worn t-shirt size? ›

When you look at the numbers, large is the most common shirt size. In fact, it accounts for about 30 percent of shirt sales. Coming in at 28 percent, the size medium is a close runner-up and extra large is next at 20 percent. The percentages are much lower for smaller and larger sizes.

How many white shirts should a man own? ›

Personal shoppers recommend having at least two different white dress shirts (it's always best to have a backup). Whether you have a conservative personality and wear muted colors often or you opt for vibrant patterns, certain scenarios call for subtle colors, such as for paying respect to a loved one that has passed.

What color goes with everything clothes? ›

That's no accident: Tan goes well with all manner of colors, and it would work in place of white (or with white, as we see in this outfit). The spring and fall staple works perfectly in transitional weather precisely because you can throw a tan trench coat on over basically anything you might be wearing.

What is the most attractive shirt color? ›

When Females rated Males, Red and Black were rated as more attractive than the other colors. In descending order (from most to least attractive), the colors were rated this way: Red, Black, Blue, Green, Yellow, and White. White was the least attractive.

What is the most popular t-shirt colour? ›

Black and white are undoubtedly the most popular colors in the industry. Opting for these timeless shades allows you to be simple yet stylish.

What are the most versatile colors for clothing? ›

Neutral colors are the backbone of any wardrobe. Black, white, gray, and brown are versatile and can be paired with any other color on the wheel. They're like the glue that holds your outfits together.

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