Exclusive Test: Kate Middleton's £95 Shirt Versus High Street Alternatives
When the Princess of Wales stepped out in a polished daytime ensemble recently, fashion enthusiasts immediately took notice. The crisp shirt, tailored blazer, and cigarette trousers created a signature look that was both classic and contemporary. While the outfit's total cost was estimated at around £1,417, the most accessible element was the shirt, rumoured to be from British label With Nothing Underneath and priced at £95.
This sparked a compelling question: is it necessary to spend nearly £100 to achieve that perfect, long-lasting shirt look? To find out, we conducted an exclusive test, ordering the With Nothing Underneath shirt alongside three high street alternatives from ASOS, Boohoo, and Next. Our goal was to determine whether price truly correlates with superior fit and quality.
The Contenders: A Detailed Comparison
With Nothing Underneath The Boyfriend Shirt (£95)
Upon trying this shirt, the appeal became immediately apparent. The cut is expertly tailored, offering a relaxed yet crisp silhouette with dropped shoulders and a longer hem that works well both tucked and loose. Made from crisp poplin cotton, it provides a sharp, expensive feel. However, it does crease fairly easily throughout the day, a common trait among premium poplin shirts. This slight crinkling actually enhances the effortless, borrowed-from-the-boys aesthetic the brand is known for.
ASOS Design Tie-Back Shirt (£14.40, was £36)
This piece surprised with its tailored appearance, belying its affordable price tag. Structured shoulder pads and a tie-back detail create a sharp, sculpted silhouette that works beautifully with trousers or jeans. The crisp cotton maintains its shape well, and the blue shade is vibrant. Drawbacks include a shorter length and sleeves that may not suit taller individuals.
Boohoo Linen Look Oversized Blue Shirt (£20.80, was £26)
Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, oversized style, this shirt features a pretty powder blue shade and a comfortable, loose fit. The lightweight fabric is easy to wear with jeans or tailored trousers. However, it is slightly thinner than expected and showed some shrinkage after the first wash. Despite this, it remains a comfortable everyday option.
Next Blue Relaxed 100% Cotton Shirt (£25)
Emerging as the unexpected favourite, Next's shirt impressed with its incredibly soft, fluid fabric. Unlike the stiff poplin of Kate's choice, this shirt offers breathability and all-day comfort. The shade of blue is perfectly matched, and its wearability has already secured it a permanent place in the wardrobe. While it may not provide the same cinched effect or longevity as the designer option, its overall performance and value are outstanding.
Final Verdict and Scores
Each shirt was evaluated based on fit, fabric, comfort, and overall value. Here are the scores:
- With Nothing Underneath: 4.5/5 – Excellent tailoring and premium feel, but prone to creasing.
- ASOS Design: 3/5 – Great tailored look for the price, though length and sleeve issues may limit appeal.
- Boohoo: 2.5/5 – A comfortable budget option, but fabric quality and shrinkage are concerns.
- Next: 5/5 – The clear winner, offering superior comfort, perfect colour, and exceptional value.
This test demonstrates that while designer pieces like Kate Middleton's shirt offer undeniable quality and style, high street alternatives can provide impressive results at a fraction of the cost. The Next shirt, in particular, proves that affordability does not have to compromise on wearability or aesthetic appeal.
