10 Best White Shirts for Women in the UK 2022

Before you go and buy any old white shirt, there are a few things to consider. This guide will cover the type of shirt – whether for work, a formal occasion, or to wear at the beach – the fit, and much more.

When you think of a white shirt, it's probably the classic cut that springs to mind, but there are actually quite a few different styles to choose from. In this section, we'll go through the various options, so you can decide which one best suits your taste and purpose.

You may be reading this guide because you have a job that requires you to wear a white shirt, but we can assure you that it doesn't need to be boring. Go for simple, clean lines and a contemporary shape in a cool, soft fabric for a shirt you'll actually look forward to wearing.

Jobs in service or hospitality often call for short-sleeved shirts but if your role requires more formal wear, opt for long sleeves and a collared neckline for optimal chic. A well-chosen white shirt can also look gorgeous as daywear, creating a sharp, crisp look that elevates the rest of your outfit.

Just because white shirts are a workwear staple, that doesn't mean that's their only purpose. A white shirt can be the perfect garment to wear with a statement blazer or suit jacket for a wedding, christening, or another type of formal event.

The right white shirt can also bring sophistication to a dressed-up night out, exuding luxury and confidence. A garment with a modern cut, a frill collar, or one made from a special material such as high-quality silk are all great ways to up the style stakes.

Although the fashion-forward amongst us have been wearing flowing garments on the beach for a long time, shirts created specifically for the beach is a rather new phenomenon. It's all about snapping that dreamy pic for Insta while wearing a cool comfy garment that shows off your tan - and what could be better for that than a white cotton beach shirt?

With options for all body types, including curvy and plus-size, a beach shirt is a must-have for a holiday. Some of the most popular styles are the beach shirt dress and shirts with a semi-sheer or textured fabric - perfect for a laidback getaway in the South of France!

As well as thinking about the occasion or purpose of your shirt, you also need to consider the fit. The classic white shirt worn in formal work settings has a regular cut, shaped either close to the body or slightly loose. This fit also looks great when worn as everyday wear, no matter whether it's a modern, cropped length shirt with short sleeves or a sleek, long-sleeved blouse for a more retro vibe.

A relaxed or oversized cut might be more suitable for those who are a little bored with the classic, regular fit. In the world of white shirts for women, looser doesn't have to mean more casual, and an oversized shirt can create a more contemporary silhouette that's chic enough both for work and events.

Most white shirts are made from 100% cotton, which is naturally cool, comfortable, and perfectly complements the garment's style. Some brands now work with the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) to create shirts that are more sustainably produced to ensure better conditions for their workers.

However, not all white shirts are made from cotton. Some are made with a fabric blend of cotton with either polyester or viscose, which usually makes the item a little bit cheaper, however offers more stretch and less tendency to crease. Some downsides of fabric blends with synthetics are that the shirt may not feel as breathable as 100% cotton, and their production is often not as eco-friendly.

For those with a larger budget looking for a white shirt that creates a real style statement, silk is an excellent option. A silk shirt is more versatile than you'd think. It looks stunning under a mohair jumper or tweed blazer or just paired with tailored trousers. Opt for grade 6A silk for the highest-quality material that will bring sophistication to any outfit and will likely last a long time too. 

It may sound obvious, but it's crucial to always read the care instructions for your shirt to make sure you get the most out of it. White shirts are notoriously susceptible to staining, but luckily those made from cotton, polyester, or a blend with viscose can usually be thrown in the washing machine along with other whites.

Silk should be hand-washed or cold washed in the machine on a gentle cycle and ironed on a low setting. Just make sure you always check the label of your garment for more instructions on how to wash and dry it along with the specific temperature that works best.

Now that you're all clued up on how to find the perfect white shirt, it's time to look at our recommendations. With gorgeous pieces from Mango, Boden, and John Lewis, our list has something to suit everyone.

Staples like shirt dresses, cords, and scarves are an essential part of every woman's wardrobe, but we all need a little inspiration from time to time to find the best picks. We've taken the stress out of online shopping so that you can just click the links below for tips and recommendations.

So there you have it – our guide to finding the best white shirts for women. We hope we've helped on your journey to finding the right item, whether it's to look chic on your commute, to smarten up your daywear, or to get those Insta-worthy beach shots!

Author: Melanie McPhail