There’s nothing quite like a fresh white t-shirt to set your sights on. It evokes the sense of a fresh start and a blank canvas for your mind, body, soul (and wardrobe!). Maybe it has to do with a ‘new year, new you attitude’ or the fact that after all the holiday and new years parties, we’re worn out from the “what am I going to wear?” conundrum. This is where we feel a moral obligation to step in and advocate for an everyday uniform. We don’t mean a uniform in the traditional sense, more a skeleton to take the guesswork out of your morning routine and provide you with a framework from which to dress yourself each morning. In our opinion, every uniform of substance needs an anchor. Enter the best white t-shirts. Let the white t-shirt be the backbone of your OOTD skeleton. The best white t-shirts for women (in our opinion) this season are: The Baby Tee by Frame, The Little Tee and the Boxy Crew by The Great, Lil Goodie Tee from MOTHER.
How to Choose The Best White T-Shirt
Finding the best white t-shirt really depends on your personal preference. We are loving the variety of fits, cuts, and weights that are available this season - who knew a white t-shirt could have so much to offer! But what makes a white tee the best white t-shirt? When it comes to buying a white t-shirt, there are some criteria to consider before you buy that perfect white tee. Our non-negotiables for the best white t-shirt to think about are the material, weight, cut, length and fit.
We’ve done the legwork to narrow down the best white t-shirts, what makes them premium and how to style them. There are so many cuts on the market these days, but when it comes to styling a women’s white t-shirt, weight, cut, length and fit are crucial considerations. These days a woman's premium white t-shirt should be able to perform a lot of heavy lifting. The quality of a cotton t-shirt can be maintained season after season if you follow the care guide on the garment label (more on that below). The best white t-shirt can come with a premium price tag, but taking good care of your t-shirt ensures you can wear it for years to come.
When it comes to material, we look to cotton for the best white t-shirts. Either 100% cotton or 100% pima cotton. The best white t-shirts are worth the investment because they hold shape, colour and are less likely to pill as much as a synthetic fiber. See more on care and fabric below.
The Best White T-Shirts are Worth the Weight
Building out your uniform from the foundation of the best white t-shirt gets easier when you know what to wear it with. Yes, you can wear a white t-shirt with just about anything (and you should!) but no matter who you ask, nothing pairs better with a white t-shirt than a pair of classic blue jeans. Whether they’re a pair of 501 Levi’s or barrel cut Citizens of Humanity, the best white t-shirt and jeans is a match made in heaven. If you’re not sure what jean style is best for you, check out our Jean Quiz and follow-up with our denim Care Guide.
THE GREAT.
The Off-Duty White T-Shirt
For an off-duty look, a women’s white t-shirt and women’s blue jeans are the way to go. This is an equation that takes the thought out of dressing. A few minor enhancements can really up your off-duty OOTD game. A simple french tuck for that je ne sais quoi, chic sunnies when you need to fly under the radar and either a chunky sneaker or down to earth Birkenstocks are the perfect pairing for this look. We love adding a relaxed knit flung over the shoulders or tied around the waist. Don’t worry about taking off your jewels, as this adds personality to your look! Between the soft cotton tee, worn in denim, fuzzy knits and jewelry, your off duty look is a balanced expression of your unplugged self.
Bring your White T-shirt to Work Day
Since it's the best white t-shirt we're talking about, give it the positive feedback it deserves and take it to the office. Dress it up by tucking it into structured or loose pants, dark denim, or a skirt. If business on top is what the day calls for, we love how a blazer or cropped jacket and white t-shirt work together to strike the perfect tone - just like your emails.
White T's Night Out
Give your white t-shirt of the month a pat on the back and take it out to dinner. Nothing elevates a perfect white t-shirt like a skirt. Our favourite skirts this season to pair back to your t-shirt are the Levi’s Icon Skirt, the Ganni Leopard Denim Wrap Skirt and Geel’s Aria skirt. Explore more skirts in our skirt collection. If the temperature is chilly, cover up with Citizens of Humanity Genova Low Rise Boot jean.
THE GREAT - Boxy Crew
THE GREAT - Boxy Crew
Layering a White T-Shirt
We can't overlook the important role a white t-shirt plays in a layered look. It is one of our favourite ways to style a white t-shirt. Wear your white t-shirt under a button up shirt, cardigan (open or closed), crewneck knit or V-neck sweater with layered necklaces over top. For more on layering your knitwear, check out our Style Guide: Knitwear Layering 101.
The layering doesn’t have to stop there! Layer a classic white t-shirt under a slip dress for a great opportunity to dress down a more formal piece. Geel's Noah Slip Dress layered over a basic white tee is the perfect way to create an edgier day-time look when you want to channel Kate Moss. Layers add depth to a wardrobe without having to try too hard.
The Best White T-Shirt AKA Your New Best Friend
Think of the best white t-shirt as your closet's loyal bestie. It goes the distance, is versatile throughout a day of ups and downs and there for you when you need it most. It can be the center stage for your outfit but isn't territorial - it's more than happy to take a backseat under a layer or two. The best white t-shirt may truly be a women's best friend.
Final Thoughts on The Best White T-Shirt...
We know how disappointing it can be when a garment falls apart or is damaged in the wash. To keep your best white t-shirt looking it's best, it's important to take the time to learn how to properly care for all items near and dear to our hearts. Caring for your clothing is a labour of love that protects the time, care, and investment behind sourcing these forever pieces. See Frequently Asked Questions and our T-Shirt Care Guide below. Don't hesitate to reach out with styling or care questions to hello@hillsdrygoods.com.
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White T-Shirt FAQ's
Do Natural Fibers Discolour Easily?
Natural fibers like cotton and pima cotton are highly breathable and absorbent, which makes them extremely comfortable to wear, however, it means they can absorb sweat, body oils and deodorant more readily than synthetic fabrics.
Over time, this can lead to visible buildup in high-contact areas (like underarms). The fabric itself isn't the issue, it's the residue from deodorant, oils and minerals interacting with heat and detergents.
Pima cotton's longer fibers naturally resist this better, helping the fabric stay smoother and fresher longer.
How can I Prevent Discolouration?
A few small habits can make a big difference in the maintenance of your t-shirts:
- Let deodorant fully dry before getting dressed
- Avoid heavy antiperspirants when possible (check out our Nala deodorant collection)
- Wash garments soon after heavy sweating
- Use cold water and gentle cycles
- Skip fabric softener as it traps residue in fibers
- Avoid high heat when drying
Will my shirt shrink?
All natural cotton can experience slight shrinkage when exposed to heat. Washing in cold water and drying on low (or air drying) helps preserve the original fit and shape of your t-shirt.
How often should I wash my T-Shirt?
For casual wears, you can get a few wears between washes. Over-washing and high heat are two of the biggest factors in fabric wear, tear and colour fading.
Why do you recommend cold water vs high heat?
High heat is the fastest way to go from the best white t-shirt to the worst. Heat locks in stains, fades colour and weakens natural fibers. Cold water preserves the look and lifespan of your garment.
Is pima cotton harder to care for?
Not at all! It simply benefits from gentler handling. With proper care, pima cotton maintains it's softness and colour exceptionally well.
White T-Shirt Fabric & Care Guide
Caring for Cotton
At Hill's Dry Goods we source cotton t-shirts that are crafted from high-quality natural fibers chosen for their breathability, softness and everyday durability. Comfortable from the first wear, they age like a fine wine, as long as you don't spill on them!
Care:
- Turn inside out
- Machine wash cold with like colours
- Wash on a gentle cycle
- Tumble dry low or lay flat to dry
- Warm iron if needed
- Avoid bleach
Caring for Pima Cotton
Pima cotton is a premium fiber known for its exceptionally smooth feel and durability. The extra long fibers create a t-shirt that's softer, more resilient and refined.
Care:
- Machine wash cold on gentle
- Turn inside out
- Lay flat or hang to dry
- Tumble dry low if needed
- Cool iron only
- Avoid bleach
*Cold water and low heat preserve the colour, shape and soft feel.
Wash thoughtfully and dry gently - your t-shirts and wallet will thank you.
Preventing Discolouration
- Apply deodorant to dry arms
- Dress once underarms are dry
- Avoid heavy antiperspirants when possible
- Wash soon after heavy sweating
- Use cold water and avoid high heat
- Skip fabric softener (it traps residue)
*Psst: Looking for a detergent that's gentle on your clothes but can handle everything life throws at your T's? Check out DedCool Detergent.
100% Biodegradable, environmentally-conscious and available in in 4 fragrances. Sold in-store and online.