The Perfect Women's T-Shirt: Ultimate Guide

what is the best women

T-shirts are a wardrobe staple, but finding the perfect one can be challenging. From crewnecks to V-necks, boxy to fitted, there are a lot of options to choose from. So, what is the best women's T-shirt?

According to experts, the best women's T-shirts are typically the simplest, with durable, high-quality fabrics, an expansive range of sizes, and breathable comfort built to support all-day wear.

- Best Editor-Tested T-Shirt: Uniqlo U Crewneck T-Shirt. This semi-slim fit tee is great for layering and has a heavier, opaque cotton fabric.

- Best Budget-Friendly T-Shirt: Banana Republic Timeless T-Shirt. This layering T-shirt is a great option for those on a budget and can be paired with cardigans or hoodies.

- Best Value T-Shirt: Hanes Perfect-T. This classic, budget-friendly crew-neck shirt is soft, substantial, and available in a wide range of sizes.

- Best T-Shirt on Amazon: Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit Short-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt. This affordable T-shirt has great reviews and is thicker than expected.

- Best Overall T-Shirt: Everlane The Organic Cotton Box-Cut Tee. This box-cut tee comes in a variety of colours and has a breathable, relaxed fit.

- Best Heavyweight T-Shirt: COS The Clean-Cut T-Shirt. This T-shirt has heft and structure, and the length is just right for contending with office AC.

- Best Slim-Fit T-Shirt: Ripley Rader White Fitted T-Shirt. This high-neck, buttery-soft modal T-shirt is an elegant option for layering.

- Best Curved Hem T-Shirt: Universal Standard Tee Rex. This clingy, sinuous T-shirt has a curved hem that’s meant to be left untucked.

- Best Oversize T-Shirt: Anine Bing Oversize T-Shirt. This T-shirt offers a relaxed fit and is perfect for running errands or pairing with a blazer for the office.

- Best Celebrity-Approved T-Shirt: Leset Classic Margo Tee. This true classic has a lot of devotees, including celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid.

- Best Long-Sleeved T-Shirt: Skims Fits Everybody Long-Sleeved T-Shirt. This breathable, form-fitting tee is perfect for layering in the winter or wearing on its own in the fall.

- Best White T-shirt: Vince Essential Crew. This classic crewneck T-shirt is a favourite among Vogue editors.

- Best Cropped T-Shirt: Lululemon Wundermost Ultra-Soft Nulu Crewneck Cropped T-Shirt. This super soft and snug T-shirt is perfect for pairing with high-waisted jeans or wide-leg pants.

- Best V-Neck T-Shirt: Splendid Short-Sleeve V-Neck Tee. This classic style is perfect for layering, the gym, and travel, and is a smart purchase.

- Best Fan-Favorite T-Shirt: Madewell Whisper Cotton Rib-Crewneck Tee. Madewell's cult-favorite Whisper Cotton T-shirts are comfortable, light, and soft, and come at a great price point.

- Best Graphic T-Shirt: Anine Bing Walker Tee. This oversized tee features a subtle leopard focal point, drawing the eye in without screaming graphic tee.

- Best Pointelle T-Shirt: Leset Pointelle Short Sleeve Tee. This white T-shirt with scalloped edging gives off a feminine touch.

- Best Multipurpose T-Shirt: Vuori Pose Scoop Back T-Shirt. This T-shirt with a built-in bra is great for day-to-night wear and keeps out moisture.

- Best Braless T-Shirt: Klassy Network Loose T-Shirt Brami. This T-shirt with a built-in bra is great for pregnant women who want a comfortable, fuss-free option.

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Best women's t-shirts for layering

When it comes to layering, the best women's T-shirts are those that are versatile, comfortable, and easy to care for. Here are some recommendations and tips for choosing the perfect T-shirts for layering:

Fabric Choices:

The fabric of your T-shirt plays a crucial role in determining its comfort and durability. Natural fabrics like cotton are breathable and get softer over time. Pima cotton, a type of cotton known for its exceptional softness, is a great option for a luxurious feel. For a more affordable choice, consider a blend of cotton and modal, which offers a balance between softness and durability. If you're looking for a stretchy fabric, elastane or spandex blends can provide that extra flexibility, but they may require more frequent replacements.

Fit and Style:

The perfect fit for layering depends on your personal preference and the overall style you want to achieve. A slim or fitted T-shirt can provide a sleek base layer without adding bulk. On the other hand, a boxy or oversized T-shirt can offer a more relaxed and casual look. Consider the neckline as well—a V-neck or scoop neck can be flattering and work well under suits or blazers.

Classic and Versatile Colours:

When building a layering wardrobe, it's essential to have a range of classic colours like black, white, and neutral tones. These colours go well with almost anything and can be easily mixed and matched. White T-shirts are a staple, but make sure to choose opaque options that aren't see-through. Black T-shirts are versatile and can be dressed up or down. Neutral colours like grey, navy, or beige are also excellent choices for creating subtle and elegant layers.

Layering Techniques:

T-shirts are incredibly versatile when it comes to layering. You can layer them under blazers, cardigans, or sweaters for a polished look. For a more casual vibe, try pairing an oversized T-shirt with low-rise jeans or layering a printed T-shirt under a denim jacket. If you want to elevate your outfit, consider adding statement jewellery or scarves. Don't be afraid to mix and match different prints and textures to create a unique look.

Recommended Brands:

Several brands offer high-quality T-shirts that are perfect for layering. Here are some options to consider:

  • Amazon Essentials: Their Classic-Fit T-Shirt is a budget-friendly option with a semi-fitted shape and a soft, stretchy fabric.
  • Hanes: The Hanes Perfect-T is an elevated take on the everyday T-shirt, featuring a tailored fit and a range of colour options.
  • Gap: Gap's Organic Cotton Vintage Crewneck T-Shirt is a comfortable and flattering option made from organic cotton, available in regular, tall, and petite sizes.
  • Madewell: The Supima Rib Tee from Madewell is made from stretchy fabric that provides a fitted look without feeling restrictive.
  • Lululemon: The Wundermost Long-Sleeve Shirt is a great choice for layering, offering comfort and compression while remaining lightweight and breathable.
  • Reformation: The Reformation Classic Crew Tee is a vintage-inspired T-shirt made from 100% organic cotton, providing a relaxed fit.
  • Uniqlo: The Uniqlo Supima Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt is a soft and breathable option, perfect for a professional look when paired with a cardigan or blazer.
  • Everlane: Everlane's basic cotton scoop-neck tee has a sophisticated look and is recommended for workwear.
  • Banana Republic: Banana Republic's "refined" T-shirt collection includes various styles like crewneck, scoop neck, and long-sleeved options, perfect for a dressy and professional look.
  • L.L.Bean: L.L.Bean is known for its substantial and high-quality cotton T-shirts, offering a wide range of colours.
  • Amour Vert: If you're looking for a silky option, Amour Vert's washable silk T-shirt comes in beautiful prints and notch-neck or crewneck styles.
  • Ted Baker: Ted Baker offers dressy T-shirts with sophisticated prints, made from soft stretch jersey fabric.

These recommendations and tips will help you build a versatile layering wardrobe with T-shirts that are comfortable, stylish, and easy to care for.

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Best women's t-shirts for working out

When choosing a workout T-shirt, it's important to consider the type of exercise you'll be doing. For example, if you're running outside on a warm summer day, you might opt for a breathable tank in a sweat-wicking fabric, whereas for an indoor strength-training session, you may prefer a slightly loose, stretchy T-shirt.

32 Degrees Women's Cool Fitted T-Shirt

This T-shirt is made from 90% polyester and 10% spandex, making it lightweight, stretchy, soft, breathable, and quick-drying. It's suitable for any activity and can also be worn for lounging or running errands.

Hoka Glide Short Sleeve

The Hoka Glide Short Sleeve is ideal for running, with its lightweight and quick-drying fabric. It's also incredibly soft, so it doesn't sacrifice comfort for performance.

Under Armour Women's Tech V-Neck Short-Sleeve

This short-sleeve option is a great go-to for all-around training. Its moisture-wicking, quick-drying material will keep you comfortable during sweaty workouts, and its ultra-soft and breathable fabric makes it suitable for casual wear as well.

C9 Champion Women's Active Tank

This tank top is a good choice for easy runs, weightlifting, or yoga. It has a loose and flattering fit without being boxy and also offers the performance benefits of moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry.

Adidas Cropped Racerback Training Tank Top

This racerback training top is a favourite of Judine Saintgerard, a coach at Tone House. It's super stylish and cropped, with minimal fabric, making it great for pretty much any workout.

CRZ YOGA Pima Cotton Cropped Tank Top

This lightweight tank top is perfect for low-impact workouts or daily wear. The loose, cropped fit is ideal for layering, and the round neck with knotted side detail adds a stylish touch. The material is breathable and holds its shape wash after wash.

Vuori Pose Plyo Tank Top

The moisture-wicking stretch rib fabric of this tank is both stylish and functional, and the subtly cropped length hits right at the natural waist. It also has removable cups for added support.

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Best women's t-shirts for the office

When it comes to choosing the best women's T-shirts for the office, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the T-shirt should be made from durable, high-quality fabrics that offer breathability and comfort for all-day wear. It should also have a thick material that doesn't show the outline of your bra and retains its shape and colour even after multiple washes. Lastly, opt for a style that is simple and not too memorable or trendy, as you want the T-shirt to be a versatile layering piece. Here are some of the best women's T-shirts that fit the bill:

Uniqlo U Crewneck T-Shirt

This T-shirt has a semi-slim fit, making it easy to tuck into pants or a skirt. It is made from 100% cotton, which gives it a heavier and more opaque finish. This T-shirt is available in a range of colours, including white, black, pink, yellow, and olive, so you can find the perfect shade to match your office wardrobe.

Banana Republic Timeless T-Shirt

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, the Banana Republic Timeless T-Shirt is a great choice. This T-shirt is made from a blend of cotton and Lenzing modal, which makes it soft and comfortable. It comes in a variety of colours, including white, black, thyme green, and rose pink, and is perfect for layering under cardigans or hoodies during cold weather.

Everlane Cotton Scoopneck Tee

The Everlane Cotton Scoopneck Tee is a sophisticated option for the office. It features elbow-length sleeves and comes in six different colours. The top is made from 100% cotton, giving it a polished look. It is available in sizes XXS to XL and retails for $40.

Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit T-Shirt

This T-shirt is a great affordable option, with a pack of two T-shirts retailing for just $19. The material is thin but not see-through, and it has a stretchy fabric that is comfortable and breathable. The T-shirt has a slim fit and falls below the hip, making it perfect for tucking into your favourite pair of office trousers or a skirt.

Boden Supersoft Frill-Detail Top

When you're looking for something a little more dressy, the Boden Supersoft Frill-Detail Top is a great choice. This T-shirt is made from a breathable blend of cotton and modal, offering a body-skimming stretch. It features a keyhole detail in the back and a slight puff sleeve, adding a touch of elegance to your office ensemble.

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Best women's t-shirts for a casual look

When it comes to choosing the best women's T-shirts for a casual look, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, opt for durable, high-quality fabrics that offer breathability and comfort. Look for materials like cotton, modal, or Supima cotton, which is known for its softness and durability. Secondly, choose a style that suits your personal preference, whether it's a boxy, fitted, or oversized silhouette. Thirdly, consider the neckline – a crewneck, V-neck, or scoop neck can all work well for a casual outfit. Finally, pay attention to the length and fit. A T-shirt that is too long or too short can be uncomfortable and look awkward. Go for a relaxed or loose fit for a casual vibe.

  • Uniqlo U Crewneck T-Shirt – This T-shirt has a semi-slim fit, making it perfect for tucking into pants or skirts. It is made from opaque cotton, so you don't have to worry about it being see-through. It also comes in a variety of colours, offering countless styling possibilities.
  • Banana Republic Timeless T-Shirt – This T-shirt is a great budget-friendly option, perfect for layering under cardigans or hoodies. It is made from a blend of cotton and Lenzing modal, giving it a comfortable and breathable feel.
  • Everlane The Organic Cotton Box-Cut Tee – This boxy T-shirt has a slightly cropped fit and is made from breathable and lightweight organic cotton. It comes in a range of colours, so you can stock up on your favourites.
  • Hanes Perfect-T Women's Short Sleeve Cotton T-Shirt – This classic crewneck T-shirt is a great budget-friendly option, offering surprising quality for its price. It has a relaxed fit and is available in a wide range of sizes. However, some reviewers mention that it can shrink in the wash, so keep that in mind when ordering.
  • Madewell Whisper Cotton V-Neck Tee – This T-shirt is a fan favourite, with over 500 positive reviews. It has a roomy sleeve, a soft feel, and doesn't shrink in the dryer. You can also find it on sale if you don't mind limited inventory.
  • Skims Cotton Jersey T-Shirt – With almost 1,700 positive reviews, this T-shirt is a comfortable and flattering option. The stretchy fabric makes it perfect for bending in all directions during your workout routine. However, some reviewers suggest sizing down for a less snug fit.
  • Gap Modern Crewneck T-Shirt – This long-sleeve T-shirt is a great option for those looking for a variety of colours and patterns. It has a crew neckline and is made from a soft cotton blend. Reviewers praise its quality and fit, saying it holds its shape well throughout the day.
  • Lululemon Wundermost Ultra-Soft Nulu Crewneck Cropped T-Shirt – This T-shirt is perfect for those who want a smoothing option that can be worn without a bra. It features Lululemon's best-selling Nulu fabric, which is super soft and snug. It's cropped at the waist, so it pairs well with high-waisted bottoms.

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Best women's t-shirts for a night out

When it comes to a night out, there are a few key elements to consider when choosing the perfect T-shirt. Do you want to go for a classic crewneck or a more relaxed fit? Are you looking for something dressy or casual? What type of material do you prefer – cotton, modal, or a blend? To help you make the best choice, we've put together a list of some of the top-rated women's T-shirts that are perfect for a night out.

Best Crewneck Tee – Vince Essential Crewneck Top

If you're looking for a classic crewneck tee that will elevate your night-out look, the Vince Essential Crewneck Top is a great choice. Made from Peruvian Pima cotton jersey fabric, it offers a flattering fit and a soft, stretchy feel. It's a bit on the sheer side, so it's recommended to wear a cami or neutral undergarments underneath. With a price tag of $80, it's a worthy investment for a perfect white tee.

Best Value T-Shirt – Hanes Perfect-T

For an affordable option that doesn't compromise on quality, the Hanes Perfect-T is an excellent choice. At only $8, it offers a tailored fit and a versatile, easy style. The material is 100% cotton, providing a relaxed fit that's perfect for layering or wearing on its own.

Best Dressy T-Shirt – Boden Supersoft Frill-Detail Top

If you're looking for a dressier option to elevate your night-out ensemble, the Boden Supersoft Frill-Detail Top is a fantastic choice. Made from a breathable cotton blend, it offers a body-skimming stretch and features a keyhole detail at the back, along with a slight puff sleeve. It's available in 9 different colours and patterns, including nautical stripes, for a stylish and comfortable look.

Best T-Shirt on Amazon – Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit T-Shirt

The Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit T-Shirt is a budget-friendly take on the classic crewneck tee, with over 33,000 five-star reviews to back up its popularity. The material is thin yet stretchy and fabulously soft, and the length is perfect for tucking into jeans or wearing with high-waisted bottoms. At only $19, it's a great option for a night out.

Best Cropped T-Shirt – COTTONCITIZEN Tokyo Cropped Tee

As the temperatures rise, a cropped tee like the COTTONCITIZEN Tokyo Cropped Tee is a perfect choice. It hits just below the belly button, offering a good amount of coverage, and has a relaxed, loose fit. The fabric is thicker and heavier than your typical basic tee, yet it still feels soft and breathable. At $90, it's a great investment for a stylish and comfortable night-out look.

Best Oversized T-Shirt – Free People We the Free CC Tee

For a slouchy and oversized look, the Free People We the Free CC Tee is an excellent choice. This T-shirt is incredibly cozy and flowy, with a structured neckline and a draped body. It's perfect for a casual night out, especially when paired with low-rise jeans to honour the cropped fit. Keep in mind that it runs large, so you may want to size down.

Frequently asked questions

The best women's t-shirts for layering are the Madewell Whisper Cotton Rib-Crewneck Tee, the Everlane Organic Cotton Muscle Tee, and the J.Crew Fine-Rib Fitted Boatneck T-shirt.

The best women's t-shirts for summer are the Gap Organic Cotton Vintage Crewneck T-Shirt, the Faherty Sunwashed Crew Tee, and the Uniqlo Supima Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt.

The best women's t-shirts for winter are the Lululemon Wundermost Long-Sleeve Shirt, the Boden Supersoft Frill Detail Top, and the Skims Soft Smoothing Seamless T-Shirt.

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  • Byeon
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