Wardrobe Basics: Plain White T-Shirts & Tanks
The plain white tee is easily one of the most important basics from the wardrobe basics checklist! But with so many options out there, it’s hard to know which one is right for you! I’m reviewing some of the most popular white tees that I’ve ordered and tried…find out which one is my favorite! Plus, I’m sharing some of my favorite tanks too!
You can get those checklists (and some other amazing freebies) when you sign up for my newsletter.
Two quick notes before I dive in…most white t-shirts are at least a little see-through, but you can wear a regular nude bra with all the tees I’m sharing in this post!
Also with all-white tees, you should wash in cold water and either hang on a velvet non-slip or padded hangers or lay flat to dry. DO NOT dry anything that’s cotton or part cotton because it will shrink and thin the already thin fabric!
#1 | Rag & Bone Tee
The pros of this Rag & Bone t-shirt is that it’s thicker so you don’t have to worry about it being see-through at all, it has great arm coverage (longer and roomier), it’s 100% cotton, and it’s a nice length. The cons are the price ($90), and that it has a lower v-neck that might make some uncomfortable.
#2 | Paige Tee
This tee is by Paige, a denim brand I love, so I was excited to try it. This t-shirt has a heathered, vintage look and it’s thinner than the Rag & Bone tee. It has roomy arms and body with a more slouchy, boxy fit. It’s 50% cotton and 50% modal (a fabric that mimics cotton. It’s lightweight and breathes well). The cons again are the price ($79) and the deeper v-neck.
#3 | Wilt Tee
This tee is by Wilt and it’s the most expensive at $95. The high price makes sense because you can feel the quality as soon as you put it on! It’s three times the thickness of any other tee I’ve tried and it’s definitely not see-through at all. But, since it’s thicker, it is warmer so keep that in mind. It’s a trapeze style so it’s great for hiding a tummy.
I’m giving some of the tees my own awards and this Wilt t-shirt wins for Best For The Tummy…it hides anything! You can also see how I knotted this tee to create more shape in the video at the bottom of this post.
#4 | Monrow Tee
I thought this Monrow t-shirt was going to be my favorite because I love this brand. Spoiler alert…it’s not! I really wanted a tee that’s mostly cotton. This tee is 50% polyester, 38% cotton, and 12% rayon so I didn’t love it for that reason. It has a flattering fit with a seam down the back that gives it a vintage look. The v-neck is just right and it’s $58.
#5 | Z Supply Tee
I love this Z Supply tee! It wins my award for Best Elevated Basic. It’s a basic tee but has a cool, edgy criss-cross detail, but you can still wear a regular bra with it! The fabric is 60% cotton and 40% polyester. It’s only $38 so it’s more affordable. It’s slightly see-through but a nude bra works. The v isn’t too deep, it’s fitted but not too fitted, and it’s very lightweight!
#6 | Madewell Tee
If you’re a regular reader, you know how much I love this Madewell tee. It wins my award for Best Budget Buy. It’s $19! It’s decent quality, 100% cotton, has a heathered vintage feel, and isn’t too fitted. This is the only tee I sized down in. I’m wearing an XS. I just want to note that this tee is one I have to restock every year because of the quality. After a summer of wear, it gets dull, dingy, and just looks worn – but at $19 restocking
#7 | Splendid Tee
This is another brand I love and thought this tee would be my favorite…it’s not. This tee is $48, 50% cotton and 50% modal, lightweight, has a longer length, and it’s not too fitted. The main downside is that it’s the most see-through of all 10 tees. It’s fine with a nude bra but you might be more comfortable wearing a tank or cami underneath.
#8 | Michael Stars Tee
This is my absolute favorite of them all! It’s $58, 50% cotton and 50% modal, and fits and flatters my body. Since it has that modal in it, it doesn’t get so wrinkly (if you know me, you know I HATE ironing)! The v is above the cleavage so I feel comfortable. And it has a good amount of room in the arms. Just because this is my favorite, doesn’t mean it’ll be your favorite. Find what is best for your body. I’ve done videos on body shapes and on dressing a long or short torso. Hopefully, those can help you find the perfect white tee!
#9 | ATM Tee
This is another favorite! I love the fit and lightweight feel. The arms are roomy but have enough coverage. And it’s 100% cotton. The only downside is that it’s $85. Think of this ATM t-shirt as a higher quality version of the Madewell tee.
#10 | Goldie Tee
If you don’t like cotton, this Goldie t-shirt a great option for you. It’s a slubbed jersey material that feels lightweight and comfortable. The sleeves are a little shorter, the v-neck isn’t too deep, and it has a nice fit throughout the body.
I’m obviously excited about using some new graphic software.
White Tanks
I’ve only ordered one tank for this summer and I love it. It’s by Re/Done, a racerback style, ribbed, and 100% cotton. It’s super comfortable! This style of tank is having a moment right now. I remember rocking the white tank back in NYC when I was in my mid-20’s. Everything comes back around! Here are a few more of my favorite tanks for spring/summer…
Best White T-Shirt Awards
Best Overall: Michael Stars Tee
Best Budget Buy: Madewell Tee
Best For the Tummy: Wilt Tee
Best Elevated Basic: Z Supply Tee
Honorable Mention: ATM Tee
Have you found a white tee you love? Share it in the comments below!
To get my blog posts delivered directly to your inbox, along with some awesome freebies, be sure to sign up for my newsletter here.
Thank you for stopping by!
I am an older fan of yoUr blOg and videos. I Am LOOKING for that roushed three-quaRter sleeve white tee that you had on in an earlier video. So cute. Also where do the wide-leg dark jeans that have the side pocket buttons come from. I have your petIte rectangle body though a little heavier. Trying to make a waist has always been an issue. You are the first i’ve seen that got the petite size. Thank You.
Thank you For considering the fit of the Sleeves!
And the beSt option for light blondes/root problems is Color wow Powder. Not great, but better than noThing! Xx!!
I’ve discovered a new favorite. The company is called Everlane & I am absolutely loving their v neck tees. The white is not too sheer and the fit drapes perfectly. I have a larger bust and it’s hard to find tees to fit right! I do like the Madewell ones as well!
Love a simple white tee as well. I have quite a few and always like to add one more to the collection. XO