Akin to figure-sculpting jeans and a sharp blazer, the classic white shirt hides a multitude of style sins.
Where instant polish is concerned, there are few pieces more transformative – a crisp, well-fitting shirt will stand you in excellent stead on days when you are pressed for time, not to mention the fact that a flash of white around the neck can give the illusion of a brighter complexion.
Making up a key part of your sartorial bread and butter, a white shirt is seriously versatile. For capsule wardrobe devotees, it is a total must-have.
A Fashion Week guest wears an asymmetric white shirt with a denim skirt
Layer a relaxed-fit linen version over a standout one-piece for pool-lounging purposes, or wear it done up, cinched in at the waist with a rattan belt for maximum holiday style impact.
For a dose of casual cool, team your white shirt with dark kick-flare jeans and retro-style trainers, or up the drama for night by layering it over a lace slip dress and thigh-high boots.
Hello! Fashion shares the best ways to style a white shirt this season:
With a metallic mini skirt...
Infuse the wardrobe classic with a splash of party energy by tucking it into a reflective mini skirt. I also love the idea of styling it with statement heels to up the ante.
With a fluffy coat...
For a cool, slightly edgy look, try styling a white shirt alongside striking textural elements. This street style look featuring a fluffy maxi coat, a frill-lined tie and a ruched bag feels offbeat and cool.
With sequin hot pants...
For an element of fun, try styling a white shirt alongside sequin shorts. Hot pants and micro shorts are having a serious moment right now, and I also love the addition of multi-string pearls.
With a shimmery mini dress...
The white shirt and black tie combo was all over the AW23 runways - Valentino even dedicated its entire show to a literal take on the black-tie dress code. Subvert gender norms by pairing traditionally masculine tailoring with a fitted glitzy mini dress.
With a thigh-high boots
For added interest, try a white shirt with striking design. I love the effect of this slightly abstract botanical piece alongside thigh-high boots and a warm-toned neck mess.
With a cool-girl cable knit...
To amplify the impact of a slouchy cable knit, layer it over a high-impact white shirt. Those with striking details such as wide collars or elongated cuffs can work really well.
With a denim skort...
White shirts and blue jeans go together like a dream, but if you're looking to switch it up in the denim department, consider a skort. This look feels fresh and simple for spring 2024.
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 an argyle knit...
For a cool-girl take on a classic tailoring combo, try styling a white shirt done up the collar under an argyle sleeveless vest and a cropped blazer.
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 and effortless.
With a belted skirt...
Steeped in 80s drama, this white shirt look styles the classic piece rolled at the sleeves alongside high-impact gold accessories.
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, infinitely flattering outfit formula.
With airy tailored trousers...
For a chic monochrome moment, team the staple alongside lightweight, tailored trousers and minimalist sandals.
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