You want wardrobe staples like the white shirt to last, especially if you’re wearing and washing them often. Wearing things once is a thing of the past, so after years of testing, I’ve narrowed down the vast offering on the high street to an edit of the absolute best.
1. M&S
Best for: Classic shirt styles, excellent quality
Price point: £15 – £30
Percy Pigs, trusty bras and black tights might first spring to mind when you think of M&S, but those aside, it’s long been my go-to for white shirts. I’ve worn an M&S white shirt for almost every important occasion in my life and they always pull through.
Classic tailored shirts are my favourite. They’re simple, but have you covered for almost any occasion. Look to Megan Markle for styling inspiration – team with slim fit jeans or trousers and minimal heels for an outfit that can be dressed up or down, depending on where you’re headed. Adding some bright accessories and fun jewellery makes a great evening look.
Oversized shirts have been a massive trend of late. But not so oversized that they look like you’ve actually borrowed your boyfriend’s. See Hailey Bieber’s pairing of an oversized white shirt with straight jeans and a bright handbag for a timeless but modern example.
For something smarter, try a silk blend shirt. Wear with black cigarette pants, a long coat and trainers or low heels for a sophisticated look inspired by the Olsen twins’ super chic fashion line The Row.
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2. Zara
Best for: A wide range of classic and trend pieces
Price point: £20 – £80
You have to be careful with Zara sometimes: its ethos to be trend-led can sometimes leave you with a purchase that’s in one week and out the next. But, if you know what to look for then you can absolutely find brilliant pieces that have that all-important staying power, and their extensive selection of white shirts is one of those. The amount of choice can be overwhelming so here’s my edit. The best news? All of these are machine washable.
For the ultimate no-frills option (literally), a poplin shirt is a no-brainer. Look for super minimal styles, but with exaggerated collars and cuffs for some extra interest. A similar, classic option is a fitted style, slim enough to wear under knitted vests. Kendall Jenner nailed this recently – with jeans or a more formal trouser depending on the occasion.
To shake it up, try a white shirt with a lace collar. Wear it with tailored trousers or a midi skirt for a chic office-appropriate, work look. Alternatively, jazz it up even more with a bejewelled option. Wear with leather trousers and colourful accessories on a girls’ night out.
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3. H&M
Best for: On a budget
Price point: £10 – £30
On trend and in-budget is where H&M excels, and their white shirts are no exception. An Oxford shirt is a must-have. The relaxed fit means you can dress it up or down; try with a bold coloured suit for the office or tucked into jeans and paired with trainers for a casual daytime look.
Of course, H&M had to get on board with the oversized trend too. I love the boxy, masculine fit and its versatility is a huge selling point. Wear with wide-leg jeans and trainers, or open over a t-shirt with tailored trousers (a la Kendall) for a put-together look that’s perfect for a weekend lunch.
For something more eye-catching, try a style with extra large pockets. Keep the rest of your outfit simple to let the shirt stand out. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley pulls this look off perfectly.
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4. COS
Best for: Fashion-forward (but versatile) pieces
Price point: £45 – £90
Last but not least is COS. Effortlessly cool and classic, their range of white shirts are all, joyfully, machine washable.
A relaxed fit shirt would be my first choice if you can spend a bit more. I love COS styling: if I’m lost for inspiration, I just scroll through their website for ideas. Style with black turtlenecks and trousers for a layered look that’s perfect (and practical) for winter. Or wear open, with a vest underneath for summer.
I also love a collarless v-neck option for something more casual. Try it with jeans, trainers and a leather jacket for a low-effort weekend outfit, or tucked into tailored trousers to make it more formal.
An oversized shirt, with a longer hem at the back, creates a more relaxed take on tailoring. Wear with tapered trousers and a low slingback heel for a summery office look, or make it more casual like Irina Shayk over a mini dress with sandals.
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