A crisp white shirt slips into a capsule wardrobe as smoothly as a hot knife through butter
There are few items of clothing that we reckon 80% of the population (if not more) have stashed somewhere in their wardrobe, but the humble white shirt we’re quite sure is one of them.
The white shirt offers instant polish and a grown-up touch, not to mention the fact that a flash of white around the neck can give the illusion of a brighter complexion. But most importantly of all, they offer versatility. As such, they’re a key part of any capsule wardrobe.
Layer a relaxed-fit linen version over a standout one-piece for a cool pool cover-up, or button up and cinch in at the waist for a dinner date.
For a dose of effortlessness, team your white shirt with dark denim and bright trainers, or ramp up the drama for the evening by layering yours over a lace slip dress and cowboy boots. Yee-ha.
How to style a white shirt:
Layered under a corset
A white shirt is one of the best layering pieces anyone’s wardrobe can boast, and we love the juxtaposition of a sharp shirt and an itty-bitty crop top. This particular one is made up of ties. Genius.
With Jorts
This Summer has heralded the return of the Jort, the Bermuda, the Long Short. Whatever you like to call them, the Capri’s casual cousin is the perfect accompaniment to a button-down.
With textured pieces
To add edge to your look, play with texture and team with a fluffy coat, frilly accessories and ruching.
Under a bra
Bras are expensive. Get your moneys-worth we say, and zero chance of a flash of flesh if your undergarment of choice is your trusty shirt.
With metallics
We can’t get enough of shirt and tie combinations, but the added addition of a seriously jazzy mini dress tips this look into elite status.
With thigh-high boots
A white shirt doesn’t need to be deadly simple. Look for added details such as embroidery or lace trims. We love the balance of this slightly abstract botanical top paired with thigh-high boots.
With a cool-girl cable knit…
Make your cool cable knit work even harder for you by layering it over a white shirt. Look for options with dagger collars or embroidery to ramp up the impact.
Creatively cropped
We’ve studied this photo hard and will be trying to recreate this flawless knot at once, for a cute crop that will not budge. Round of applause all round.
With a crisp maxi skirt
A subtle pinstripe shirt with a relaxed fit looks great tucked into a white denim maxi skirt for off-duty elegance.
With a clean, classic blazer
If you’re after a white shirt that isn’t your classic, run-of-the-mill piece, consider a semi-sheer effect. It adds depth, as do beaded adornments. Style yours under a crisp double-breasted blazer for a cool layering moment.
With a denim A-line skirt
Double pinstripes run the risk of verging into workwear territory, but when styled alongside a denim skirt, the effect feels more relaxed all round and perfect after-office fare.
With a Nautical spin
Collar lovers, behold one of the most beautiful examples of Big Fat Collars we’ve seen in a long time. Paired with a (very small) black bra, this is a masterclass in balanced proportions.
With a statement print
Fashion’s love for leopard print knows no bounds. Style a pair of high-waisted printed trousers alongside a white shirt and layers of gold jewellery for a timeless look.
With white trousers
Oh we love a monochrome moment. Spillers might want to swerve this one, but a white shirt paired with airy white trousers couldn’t fail to look anything other than spectacular.
