A crisp, well-fitting shirt is a wardrobe essential. No longer reserved for the office, the right white button-down paired with jeans is an easy formula for a chic off-duty look. With so many brands offering their own take on the shirt, choosing where to buy the best can be overwhelming. Three key factors to consider are material, fit, and whether the shirt is a wardrobe basic or a statement piece.
Materials Matter
Cotton, silk, and linen are the primary materials for shirts. For an everyday, high-quality shirt, cotton is a reliable choice. While blends are acceptable, a 100 per cent cotton shirt ensures longevity and quality in both feel and appearance. Silk and linen serve opposite purposes: silk is ideal for evening wear, while linen is perfect for beach days or throwing on while running errands.
Six Top Shirt Brands
Here are six of the best places to shop for your next shirt, from With Nothing Underneath to Never Fully Dressed and Cos.
With Nothing Underneath
With Nothing Underneath began with a simple mission: to make perfect shirts for women. Inspired by men's tailoring, the brand designs every piece to be timeless, appealing to those who admire Carolyn Bessette's style. Their best-seller, The Boyfriend (£110), is a perfect white shirt made from 100 per cent cotton, ideal for a capsule wardrobe. The brand has also released check shirts in the Classic cut (£150), which offer a smart-feeling flannel option for autumn.
Never Fully Dressed
For a feminine touch, Never Fully Dressed offers elegant yet cool shirts. Their current collection features bows around the neck, ruffles along the buttons, and delicate lace trim down the sleeves. The Burgundy and Pink Lace Marley Shirt (£89) has a classic silhouette elevated by unique lace detailing.
Cos
Cos is the go-to for structurally strong or interesting shirts. With options in cotton, linen, and silk, the brand has a piece for any wardrobe. Their cutaway-collar striped cotton-blend shirt (£85), available in blue and white/purple stripes, features tuxedo-inspired details. The cutaway collar, French cuffs, and concealed placket keep the shirt feeling modern.
& Other Stories
& Other Stories is championing frilly, tied, and colourful shirts. Their oversized cotton shirt (£77) in purple, the colour of the season, is a colourful take on a classic and a great addition for autumn. They have also released tie waist shirts for those who prefer a more fitted look.
Damson Madder
For a more whimsical approach, Damson Madder offers shirts with interesting details through fabric, asymmetry, or attachments like bows. The Talia Ruched Shirt (£70) in Blue Check features a functional ruched placket, button-down front, and a relaxed fit for effortless everyday styling.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo's shirts, created in collaboration with JW Anderson, keep design and aesthetics simple. The Oxford's boxy fit and slightly cropped shirt (£14.90) is a great layering piece. Under a jumper, it avoids the bulky feel common when styling a knit over an oversized shirt.
