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The 13 Very Best T-Shirts for Women
From the crewnecks we can't stop wearing to the cropped tee beloved by celebrities
What’s the difference between a good t-shirt and a great one? On our quest to find the best T-shirts for women, Bazaar editors have deeply pondered this question.
The Best T-Shirts for Women, Tested & Reviewed
T-shirts are a seasonless staple that you can find seemingly everywhere, but it's a challenge to create a list of the very best. There's no one-size-fits-all approach that will work, because so much depends on your unique needs—your frame, how much you're willing to spend, your styling preferences. Overwhelming, right?
To make the process of finding your own perfect tee as smooth and seamless as possible, start with fabrication. “Always look out for the material,” stylist and brand consultant Laura Stoloff tells Bazaar. “I prefer one hundred percent cotton if possible or a jersey blend—I try not to wear synthetic fabrics against my skin.” The sustainably-minded will want to look out for material that's organic and Better Cotton-certified as well.
Secondly, Stoloff evaluates the cuts of T-shirts by asking a few questions, such as: “Are you wearing this in the summer or layered in the winter under a blazer? Do you want a boxy boy fit or a classic shape? Do you like your T-shirts to have a heavier hand or a more slub texture?” These questions will help determine the fit you should be investing in. “I have various T-shirts for different styling needs, whether I’m wearing them more dressed up for work or layered under a knit vest,” she says. Don’t be afraid to invest in a variety of different shapes to create a capsule wardrobe. Just as button downs and blazers serve as closet mainstays, the best T-shirts for women can make getting dressed easier by offering a wide possibility of layering ideas.
Ahead, we outline all the shapes you need, from short-sleeved crewnecks to stretchy long sleeves. These are the 13 best T-shirts for women, according to our editors, customer reviewers, and fashion experts.
Leset’s Margot T-shirt is both an editor and celeb favorite. The essential tee style has been worn by everyone from Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid to Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lawrence. Between the opaque cotton, the just-right length, and plethora of color ways, it’s clear why this true classic has so many devotees.
Sizes: XS–XL
Materials: Cotton
Colors: White, black, creme, slate, midnight, and more
Editor review: “It’s taken me years to find a white t-shirt that I actually enjoy wearing. This tee has the perfect boxy cut for my petite frame and it’s supremely comfortable to wear. Plus, it’s not see-through, which has been one of my biggest gripes in my search for the best white tee. This has easily become my favorite wardrobe essential.” — Julie Tong, senior commerce content lead
Buck Mason takes pride in their fabrications, and their cotton T-shirts—which are both made and sewn in the USA—are somewhat of a cult hit . In this case, when you know, you really know. This boxy style is a standout in the crewneck category, with a cropped fit hitting at the waistline, so you never have to worry about tucking issues again.
Sizes: XS–XL
Materials: Cotton
Colors: Bright white, white, black
Editor review: “I’ve been a fan of Buck Mason for years. The quality and craftsmanship that go into each piece is a reminder that even everyday basics can look and feel luxurious. This season, I’ve been wearing their boxy crewneck pretty much nonstop. The cozy pima cotton feels wonderfully soft against the skin, while the cropped fit gives my look a polished yet unfussy effect.” — Michella Oré, fashion commerce editor
Every closet needs a few knock-around T-shirts you can throw on for days off, or to layer under sweaters before heading to work. Madewell’s relaxed tee is exactly that. Made from 100% cotton jersey, it’s cut to a loose slim fit, meaning it will give you that soft, lived-in effect without looking too bulky or messy. Tuck into a pair of stovepipe jeans and finish with a leather loafer for an easy, elevated look.
Sizes: 2XS–2XL
Materials: Cotton
Colors: Black charcoal, classic navy, white
Customer review: “I love this tee for a few reasons. I love the fit—it enhances your figure and it's not loose enough to hang. The neck is a little more heavily reinforced. And although it's shrunken, it’s not showing my midriff.”
For a nostalgic vibe, this cropped baby tee is exactly the kind of look worn by Kate Moss in the ’90s. Crafted with organic cotton, it’s made to be just as comfy to wear while lounging as it is for casual outings.
Sizes: XXS–XXL
Materials: Organic cotton
Colors: White, black
Editor review: “I bought this in black and white and they are in constant rotation. I sized up, so it’s not as cropped, and I can tuck it in if I want. The cotton is super soft and a bit stretchy but sturdy enough so that it feels substantial, doesn’t pull, and isn’t sheer.” —Leah Chernikoff, executive editor
Of course, the iconic T-shirt from Hanes had to be on our list. Their white crewneck has stood the test of time and is extremely budget-friendly. One of our editors swears by the boys' sizing for best fit, but if shrunken isn't your style, you can always go with the classic men's version.
Sizes: XS–XL
Materials: Cotton, polyester
Colors: White
Editor review: “I once read that a celebrity stylist swears by these affordable Hanes Boys’ tee, and now, I’m a loyal fan, too. I wear mine in medium for a slim, slightly cropped fit that’s perfect for pairing with high-rise jeans or layering under tops and dresses. And since they come in a pack of five for just $10, I never have to be too precious with them. In fact, I’ve even trimmed a few to an ultra-cropped length for even more styling possibilities.” — Sam Peters, senior fashion & luxury commerce editor
If you prefer an oversized fit, take Éterne’s boyfriend tee for a test drive. It has that perfectly roomy silhouette you always hope to find and never can...until now. The cotton and modal fabrication is also oh-so-soft to the touch.
Sizes: XS–XL
Materials: Cotton, modal
Colors: Black, heather gray, ivory
Editor review: “No matter the season, this T-shirt is always in rotation for me. It's incredibly soft, made from a luxurious cotton and modal blend, and I love the slouchy, roomy fit—no sizing up required! I own this one in both black and ivory and they are worth every penny. I just wash on cold and hang dry and they have literally never lost shape or pilled.” — Kristina Rutkowski, fashion contributor and writer
Designed and sewn in California, Perfect White Tee lives up to its name with its selection of deliciously soft cotton shirts. The Springsteen, one of their mid-weight options, is great for the layering during the transitional season ahead and wearing solo once summer arrives.
Sizes: XS-XL
Materials: Supima cotton
Colors: White, black
Editor review: “I have some T-shirts I only wear during the day, some I reserve for bedtime, and very few that I use for both. This is one of the latter. The fit is just right, hitting at my hips so that a little sliver of white shows underneath my sweaters. And the cotton feels so soft that I sometimes don’t bother taking it off when I get home. I wear these T-shirts all the time, and they continue to hold their shape and color with each wash.” —M.O.
This boxy tee has a slightly cropped fit, and the organic cotton is breathable and lightweight. Another bonus is the number of colors it comes in; at a relatively affordable price, you can stock up on your favorites. You can also choose to add a front pocket or not.
Sizes: XXS–XXXL with pocket or no pocket
Materials: Organic cotton
Colors: Heathered gray, black, white, navy, rose smoke, and more
Customer review: “The best T-shirts I've found as a busty gal. Love the weight of the fabric and holds up beautifully to lots of wear. Perfect tucked into trousers or with jeans. Absolutely essential wardrobe pieces for me... I think I have six colors and counting.”
Your search for a no-frills, slim-fit T-shirt begins and ends with Petit Bateau. Its plain crewneck averages 4.5 out of 5 stars, with shoppers praising the snug fit and enduring quality after several washes.
Sizes: XXS–L
Materials: Cotton
Colors: White, navy, black
Customer review: “I like that the neckline stays perfect; it doesn’t sag or pull off-center under a jacket. The material is just the right thickness—not too sheer but not too heavy. It is not boxy at all. It fits as I expected but definitely on the smaller side rather than larger.”
Uniqlo’s U crewneck counts multiple Bazaar editors and industry insiders amongst its fans. It has a semi-slim fit that means it can be easily tucked into pants or a skirt, and a heavier, opaque cotton to conceal whatever you wear underneath. Offering countless styling possibilities, it’s great to wear layered with a button-up cardigan or on its own with a stack of necklaces.
Sizes: XXS–XXL
Materials: Cotton
Colors: Natural, black, pink, dark gray, green, and more
Editor review: “I resisted trying the Uniqlo t-shirts, and I can’t imagine why because they are everything I want in a tee. The soft cotton fabric feels soft yet substantial, meaning it isn’t paper-thin or see-through, which often happens with delicate t-shirts. I love that Uniqlo also makes a cropped version, which hits at the perfect spot above my hip when I wear a high-waisted trouser or jean.’ —Katie Intner, beauty market and commerce editor
For a longer layer, look to Skims’ long-sleeved tee. Made to mold to your body, it serves as an excellent base layer for the chilly winter months—though it's surprisingly breathable, so you won't overheat if you wear it as a transitional piece this spring.
Sizes: XXS–4X
Materials: Polyamide, elastane
Colors: Onyx, cocoa, smoke, cherry, and more
Editor review: “I reach for one of these tees every other day when building my outfits. I'll pair them with wide-leg denim, trench coats, a pair of trousers—you name it." —Bianca Betancourt, culture editor
When you need the polished version of an everyday basic, say a white T-shirt, you turn to Cos. The brand’s Clean Cut tee is made from a mid-weight cotton-jersey blend that’s been cut to a loose, slightly oversized fit that will look good tucked into a pair of high-waisted jeans or untucked over a crisp poplin skirt.
Sizes: XXS–XL
Materials: Polyamide, elastane
Colors: White, black, gray marl, light pink and more
Editor review: “The magic of the Clean Cut Regular T-Shirt is that the fabric is exactly the right weight. It’s thick enough to hold its shape, but not too thick to move when your body moves. It tucks nicely under a sweater, but if you had to remove that sweater because you were, say, at parents’ day in your child’s overheated first-grade classroom, you wouldn’t feel like you were suddenly appearing in public in your pajamas.”— Izzy Grinspan, digital director
There are many OK T-shirts that will get you through the season, but if you’re looking to invest in an everyday style that will serve you for years to come, consider Flore Flore’s Car Tee. Made in Portugal from organic ribbed cotton, the subtle details—the double-stitched cut-off seam, yhr rounded bindings—ensure it’ll hold its shape through repeat wears, setting it apart from the rest.
Sizes: XS–XL
Materials: Cotton
Colors: White, black, navy and 11 more
FAQ
How Many T-shirts Should You Have?
Every wardrobe should have a handful of T-shirts to fit different occasions and styling needs. A classic crewneck that hits at the waist can be easily tucked into trousers and slips, making it a great work staple, whereas an oversized style is best for casual looks. A boxy cropped fit that hits just above your hips will pair nicely with high-waisted denim and low-slung pants, while a slimmer, softer style will layer best under winter sweaters.
How to Style the Best T-shirts for Women
A classic T-shirt is a foundational wardrobe piece that can easily be dressed up or down. Style yours with jeans and sneakers for a laid back yet polished ensemble. For something dressier, try it with a slip skirt and heels. Wear under a V-neck sweater and trouser pants for an easy work look.
How to Care for Your Tee?
While most tees are machine-washable, styles made with delicate knit fabrics or silk may be hand wash-only—so be sure to check the label before washing. Air drying any tee to minimize shrinking and pilling can also help extend the life of your piece.
Shop More Editor-Approved Wardrobe Staples:
Meet the Expert:
Laura Stoloff is a creative consultant and stylist for European and American brands, working across the editorial and retail industry for over fifteen years. Known for her edited point-of-view, she distills the essence of a brand into timeless images. Previously, Laura was the Executive Fashion Editor at WSJ. Magazine after starting her career as the Associate Fashion Director of Barneys New York. She now lives between London and New York City.
Why trust Harper’s Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.
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