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You’re standing in front of your closet, and you can’t figure out what to wear. You turn to an old friend: the classic T-shirt. It’s one of the most versatile articles of clothing you can own—perhaps more than white sneakers or even blue jeans. As a part of the foundation of our wardrobe, the best T-shirts for women can be dressed up or down, worn with your workout clothes, favorite office outfits, and even to dinner.
One of the most important aspects of a T-shirt is its optimal use for layering. A blank canvas, the classic tee can serve as the hero of your outfit, ready for you to add your personal style. With a range of necklines and silhouettes, from crewnecks to V-necks, you’re guaranteed to find a few that suit your taste. (Make sure you’re also wearing your favorite T-shirt bra to ensure a seamless look.) When it comes time to transform your T-shirt for a nighttime ensemble, take a page from celebrity stylist Nausheen Shah, who has a foolproof (and easy) option. “Tie a knot in the front or back to re-shape it for a more slim, fitted look,” she says. It’s a simple fix that can quickly elevate and transform your outfit.
Best Fan-Favorite T-Shirt
Madewell Whisper Cotton Rib-Crewneck Tee
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Of course, if you’re curating your seasonal wardrobe, consider having a handful of different styles. Having a variety of shapes and colors will guarantee you won’t be scrambling for the perfect tee when you get dressed. Shah opts for different styles depending on what she is wearing. “For high-waisted pants,” she shares, “I love a cropped boxy T-shirt.”
With so many T-shirts on the market, it is easy to get overwhelmed. So, we rounded up our favorites (and the best) just for you. Shop them all below.
Pros
- Can be dressed up or down
- Other color options
- Soft
Cons
- Some reviews say it might be short
A black tee screams sophistication, making it a great choice for day-to-night wear. Wear it with jeans to work, then—if you aren’t wearing them already—step into heels for an instant dinner outfit.
Sizes: XXS-XL
Colors: 21 options
Materials: Cotton
Customer review: “Vince tees are my favorite for their quality, light weight, and comfort. The fit is true to size without hugging. Although I already had these colors, I couldn’t resist the Amazon price. Note: the material is thin, if an issue for you. I highly recommend Vince tees!”
Pros
- Comfortable and soft
- Classic
- Great for multiple uses
Cons
- Might be too low-cut for some
If you don't have a white V-neck T-shirt in your closet, here’s a reminder to buy one. This classic style is perfect for layering, the gym, and travel, and it may just be the smartest purchase you've made thus far this year.
Sizes: XXS-2XL
Colors: 18 options
Materials: Cotton, modal
Customer review: “5 plus stars for this super comfy t-shirt with its super soft and silky material. I will be purchasing more of these beautifully made t-shirts. Highly recommended!
Pros
- Stylish
- Comfortable
Cons
- May need to size down
The exposed seams elevate this from your average T-shirt. The blue wash also serves as a neutral. You won’t feel like you’re wearing a bright color, but you won’t feel like you’re in black or white.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: 6 options
Materials: Cotton
Customer review: “This is a great everyday T-shirt. It does run big. I have it in a medium and large. It's very soft and flattering.”
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Pros
- Classic style
- Very versatile
- Soft
Cons
- Thin material
Known for its cult-favorite Whisper Cotton shirts, Madewell delivers again with this crewneck. With the great price point, I wouldn’t judge you for keeping multiples stocked in your closet.
Sizes: XXS-2XL
Colors: 6 options
Materials: Cotton
Customer review: “I recently purchased this tee from Madewell, and I couldn't be happier with it! It's incredibly comfortable, light, and soft to the touch. The ribbed crewneck adds a vintage touch that I love. The regular fit and hip length make it versatile for various outfits. Plus, I appreciate that it supports Better Cotton's mission to protect the environment and cotton communities. Overall, it's a must-have in my wardrobe!”
Best Muscle T-Shirt
Everlane The Organic Cotton Muscle Tee
Best Muscle T-Shirt
Everlane The Organic Cotton Muscle Tee
Pros
- Boxy
- Multi-use
- Unique silhouette
Cons
- Might want to size down
A muscle tee has an edgy silhouette that is a nice departure from your typical T-shirt. With a relaxed fit, it is meant to be versatile and flattering.
Sizes: XXS-2XL
Colors: Heather Grey, White, Bone/Black, Black
Materials: Cotton
Customer review: “The cut on this shirt is just a notch cooler than your standard T-shirt. I love wearing it. It's made of nice-quality cotton that should last through many washes and wears. I got both gray and black, and they both ran large.”
Pros
- Ribbed material
- Slim fit
- Soft
Cons
- Heavier weight might not appeal to everyone
J. Crew’s ribbed T-shirts are some of our favorites. We own multiple colors, thanks to the thick ribbed material that takes a basic tee from fine to fantastic. The boat neck on this one is an updated step up from my typical crewneck; suffice to say, I want it in every single color.
Sizes: XXS-3XL
Colors: Heather Grey, White, Bone/Black, Black
Materials: Cotton, rayon, elastane
Customer review: “Purchased in store—Boatneck gives it a more sophisticated t-shirt look—but fabric is a little heavier than the typical t-shirt.”
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Pros
- Comfortable
- Trendy
Cons
- Oversized fit not everyone
If you’ve seen Anine Bing’s sweatshirts and T-shirts all over your social media, you’re not alone. The fan-favorite brand, beloved by Kate Moss and Meghan Markle, among others, has catapulted itself into closets everywhere. The leopard on this oversized tee is a subtle focal point that draws the eye in without screaming graphic tee.
Sizes: XS-L
Colors: Washed Black, Vintage Black, Ivory
Materials: Cotton
Best Pointelle T-Shirt
Leset Pointelle Short Sleeve Tee
Best Pointelle T-Shirt
Leset Pointelle Short Sleeve Tee
Pros
- Lightweight
- Cute
Cons
- Hand wash only
Pointelle is another unique way to incorporate texture into your T-shirts. This white one, with scalloped edging, gives off a feminine touch.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: White
Materials: Pointelle knit, Cotton
Best Multipurpose T-Shirt
Vuori Pose Scoop Back T-Shirt
Best Multipurpose T-Shirt
Vuori Pose Scoop Back T-Shirt
Pros
- Built-in bra
- Soft
- Great for day-to-night
Cons
- Not for those looking for a cotton T-shirt
Any T-shirt with a built-in bra (with removable padding) is an immediate yes. Thanks to its unique fabric, which keeps out moisture, you can wear it to work out and to dinner—just...maybe not right after each other! Sign me up.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Black, White Heather Grey, Dark Oregano
Materials: Modal rayon, elastane
Customer review: “Purchased this for my trip to Paris. It is lightweight, comfortable, easy to dress up or down.”
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Pros
- Classic style
- Soft
- Goes with everything
Cons
This is the T-shirt of all T-shirts. It checks all the boxes. I personally love the bay leaf color, since it feels like a nice change from black, white, or gray.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: 7 options
Materials: Cotton
Best Henley T-Shirt
Reformation Hudson Long Sleeve Henley Tee
Best Henley T-Shirt
Reformation Hudson Long Sleeve Henley Tee
Pros
- Ribbed
- Comfortable
Cons
- Hand wash only
Everyone needs a henley in their collection. This one is in a beautiful cream color with a fine rib, which makes it feel like an elevated option compared to your standard tees.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Sugar, Soil
Materials: Cotton, spandex
Best White T-Shirt
The Drop Sydney Short-Sleeve Cropped Crew Neck T-Shirt
Best White T-Shirt
The Drop Sydney Short-Sleeve Cropped Crew Neck T-Shirt
Pros
- Inclusive sizing
- Affordable
- Comfortable
Cons
- Boxy fit might not work for everyone
This quick-to-ship option from Amazon’s The Drop label features a fun back seam detailing, making it a tad different from your other favorite white tees.
Sizes: XXS-5XL
Material: Cotton
Customer review: “Love the neckline, fabric, fit, and how it washes and wears. I own it in black and white and wear it all the time! Highly recommend. It does run a little generous but I like that style.”
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Pros
- Inclusive sizing
- Thick material holds you in
- Soft
Cons
- Often sold out
The SKIMS hype is in full swing. Whether you’re obsessed with the brand’s shapewear or are eagerly awaiting its swim line on your doorstep, the Kim Kardashian-founded label also makes really great basics. This fitted tee is as tight and soft as it gets, making it great for everyday wear.
Sizes: XXS-4XL
Material: Cotton, elastane
Customer review: “An example of a form-fitting, minimal basics collection done right...it’s just ever so compressing for me to be able to not have to wear a bra underneath the top.”
Best Lounge T-Shirt
Cozy Earth Ultra-Soft Bamboo Pullover Crew
Best Lounge T-Shirt
Cozy Earth Ultra-Soft Bamboo Pullover Crew
Pros
- Comfortable
- High-quality
Cons
- Expensive
- Better for cold weather
Easily one of the most comfortable tops our editors have put on their bodies, the Cozy Earth pullover T-shirt is ideal for lounging but looks elegant enough to be worn into the office as well.
Sizes: XS-3XL
Material: Viscose from bamboo, acrylic, Spandex
Customer review: “As soft as they claim and so comfortable. If the crew is clean, I’m wearing it. It has become my go-to top! It is especially comfy for these chilly days.”
Best Pajama T-Shirt
ThirdLove WonderKnit™ Pajama Tee
Best Pajama T-Shirt
ThirdLove WonderKnit™ Pajama Tee
Pros
- Extra soft
- Loose fit
- Can also be worn as loungewear or athleisure
Cons
- Only one color available
ThirdLove is known for extreme comfort, from its bras and basics down to its active sets and sleepwear. And the top-rated, WonderKnit™ Pajama Tee isn’t just for catching Z’s—the drapey fit also works as super comfy casual wear.
Sizes: XS-3XL
Material: Cotton, modal, Spandex
Customer review: “I got this shirt on a whim, I sleep really hot and I don’t like button-up/heavy sleep shirts. I was blown away by how comfy this sleep tee was! I bought the size above mine because I wanted something a bit flowy and it fit perfectly, so I recommend buying a size up!”
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Best Braless T-Shirt
Klassy Network Loose T-Shirt Brami
Best Braless T-Shirt
Klassy Network Loose T-Shirt Brami
Pros
- Soft
- Built-in bra cups
- Great for maternity wear
Cons
- Bra cups don't always fit perfectly
Klassy Network first went viral on TikTok for the brand’s inventive tops with built-in bras. The T-shirt “Brami,” as the style is called, comes in a range of bra cup sizes and colors, and works especially well for pregnant women who don’t want to fuss with a traditional bra.
Sizes: XXS-3XL
Material: Rayon, Spandex
Customer review: “Best T-shirt purchase ever! I normally wouldn’t buy a plain T-shirt at this price, but I’m pregnant. My bras don’t fit and are super uncomfortable. This shirt feels like a dream. Material is super soft and stretchy. Perfect for growing mamas.”
Best Heavyweight T-Shirt
Uniqlo U Crew Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
Best Heavyweight T-Shirt
Uniqlo U Crew Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
Pros
- Affordable
- Opaque
Cons
- Heaviness might not work for everyone
If you like a little weight to your basic tee, you’ve come to the right place. This Uniqlo shirt is fully opaque, so you can wear it with colored bras, bralettes, or no bra at all. The cut is tailored without becoming too form-fitting, and its budget-friendly price can’t be beat.
Sizes: XXS-2XL
Material: Cotton
Customer review: “This is now my favorite white T-shirt! Top quality construction, perfect fit and fabric is a nice weight! I’ll be buying in different colors at this price!”
Best Bodysuit T-Shirt
Abercrombie & Fitch Cotton Seamless Fabric Crew Bodysuit
Best Bodysuit T-Shirt
Abercrombie & Fitch Cotton Seamless Fabric Crew Bodysuit
Pros
- Fitted silhouette is perfect for tucked-in look
- Snap-bottom closure
- Neutral colorways
Cons
- May not suit shorter torsos
Here’s a T-shirt for the person who always keeps it tucked in. Abercrombie’s bodysuits are buttery soft and flattering for that perfectly seamless fit.
Sizes: XXS-2XL
Material: Cotton, elastane
Customer review: “I love this bodysuit—it’s so soft and comfortable and goes with everything! I can wear it to work with nice pants and also to go out to dinner. I ordered my normal size and it fits like a glove.”
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Pros
- Versatile
- High-quality
- Luxurious
Cons
- Limited sizing
- Expensive
For the ultimate day-to-night tee, opt for something beyond basic cotton. We love this knit silk-and-linen version as an elevated staple. Don’t let the sweater look fool you; this piece is extremely breathable.
Sizes: S-L
Material: Silk, European flax
Customer review: “Such an elegant shirt, with a great drape. I loved the white one so much that I bought this second one!”
Best V-Neck T-Shirt
Good American Classic V-Neck Tee
Best V-Neck T-Shirt
Good American Classic V-Neck Tee
Pros
- Soft
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Limited colorways
- Runs large
- Sells out
This longline V-neck doesn’t dip too far down: It falls just low enough to be universally flattering and pairs well with necklaces.
Sizes: XS-5XL
Material: Supima cotton
Customer review: “I’ve now bought three because I wear them so often and haven’t found any other brand that even comes close to this tee.”