The white shirt is arguably the most versatile piece of clothing one can own. Just try to conjure up all the possible outfits containing a white shirt, and you'll be simply overwhelmed with the choices. Pair with some jeans and trainers, and you've got the ever classic, ever effortless 'running errand' look, but combine with a satin mini skirt and a stiletto and you're ready to paint the town red.
In fact, as well as being a workwear staple, the white shirt has become a surprise hit on the red carpet. Most recently, Cara Delevingne chose one to honour Karl Lagerfeld at this year's Met Gala – a fitting tribute considering the prevalence of white shirts in Lagerfeld's own wardrobe.
Of course, Sharon Stone all but trademarked the white shirt when she attended the1998 Oscars wearing her husband's Gap shirt tucked into a Vera Wang satin maxi skirt - a look we still can't get over, to this day.
Zendaya clearly agrees. Her look for the94th Academy Awards in 2022 looked like a new take on Stone's iconic outfit. Turning to Valentino for a knockout moment, the Euphoria star opted for a spangly, floor-trailing skirt and a cropped white shirt.
She wasn't the only one who took the white shirt from support act to leading role on the Oscars red carpet. Uma Thurman wore a Bottega Veneta style (another homage playing out? It looked like a nod to her 1994 Pulp Fiction role). Meanwhile, Kristen Stewart - nominated for her role inSpencer - served up a modern take on the tux. She wore a black Chanel shorts suit with an unbuttoned shirt.
The good news is, this is a trend you can (and probably have) already jumped on. No wardrobe is complete without a white shirt. Whether you wear yours tucked into tailored trousers, with distressed jeans (our weekend uniform), or even oversized and loosely fastened over a swimsuit on the beach, it’s a universal must-have.
The beauty of the white shirt is its endless styling possibilities. Sure, they're a no-brainer teamed with tailoring or denim, but why not try something different? Wear your long-sleeved style buttoned to the top under a slip dress. Or try pairing an oversized men's style with a full skirt.
Wondering where to start? We’ve sifted through the styles currently available to shop.
SHOP: The 7 Best White Shirts You Can Buy Now
www.withnothingunderneath.com
Description
The closest thing to the perfect shirt you'll ever find, WNU's Boyfriend fit is just the right amount of oversized without verging into shapeless or unflattering territory. Best of all, it comes in various fabrics including silk and linen if you don't want poplin.
www.stories.com
Description
With its structured shoulders and cinched waist, this organic cotton shirt is the comfortable equivalent of a corset - without any of the faff. Wear with tailored trousers for a knockout combo.
www.cos.com
Description
100% cotton, this shirt has adjustable cuffs and would look just as good worn open over a tank top or tee as it would buttoned up for work.
www.whitestuff.com
Description
A relaxed-fit shirt that's an instant classic. 100% cotton and ideal for work or play.
www.joseph-fashion.com
Description
For a stylish take on a traditional shirt, look to Joseph's relaxed style which boasts neckline ties and the slightest hint of a voluminous sleeve.
www.arket.com
Description
As we head towards the summer months, it's worth considering a linen shirt. More breathable than a lot of cotton and silk, you can pair this with everything from skirts to shorts and still look effortlessly put together.
www.libbylondon.com
Description
Most silk shirts cost a small fortune but this one from Libby London is reasonably priced and beautifully tailored.
Wear it like…
Here's how to style the work white shirt to inspire your wardrobe.