Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.
I have a few perennial quests in my life because I always wonder if there’s something better out there that I missed. The perfect T-shirt is one of them. A simple garment, the T-shirt has been around for a long time—in fact, Hanes started making their white T-shirts in the early 1900s.
Today, pretty much every brand or label has their own version, or two. There are cropped ones, long ones, boxy ones, slim ones, relaxed ones, and more. While there are some great places to order custom T-shirts online, we stuck to solid colored ones (with the exception of one striped) without writing, logos, or images for this list.
To help you wade through all the options, we compiled this guide to the best T-shirts available in a variety of categories. No matter what style you’re looking for, you’re sure to find something that will fit the bill.
What to consider when buying T-shirts for women
There’s a big difference between shopping for a classic white T-shirt that can be dressed up or down, to shopping for a workout shirt. To help with that, consider the following:
Necklines
Crew neck, V-neck, or boat neck: they all offer something. A crew will provide a classic, timeless look while a V-neck adds an elongating detail to your neckline (excellent for making you look a bit taller). Boat necks are great for those with small breasts or pear-shaped bodies.
Materials
Gone are the days where you had to shop for men’s T-shirts in order to find a quality option (especially for white tees). Most of the T-shirts on this list are made from 100% cotton, with a handful being cotton and modal blends. Cotton is a breathable, durable fabric that comes in a variety of weights. I will always love plain old white cotton Hanes T-shirts, they’re the most suitable in my opinion.
Fit and shape
T-shirts come in a variety of fits and shapes including, slim, classic, relaxed, and oversized. Having some in every shape is the way to go. Slim T-shirts are ideal for dressing up or when you want to show off your shape. A classic shape paired with jeans or a skirt creates a stylish, timeless look and a ‘just-right’ oversized fit gives off some vintage vibes.
Our picks for the best T-shirts for women
Most popular T-shirt for women: Amazon Essential Classic Fit Short Sleeve T
Made with just a bit of stretch, the Amazon Essentials Short Sleeve T-shirt is a versatile wardrobe piece at a very attractive price. It’s nothing fancy; just a classic crew neck tee with a close, but not tight fit. Pair it with jeans and white sneakers for a casual, go anywhere look. At $19 for two, you can afford to get some in each of the vast range of available colors.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colors: Black, white, and many more
- Materials: 56% cotton, 38% modal, 6% spandex
- Fit: Classic
What we like:
- Many colors
- Great price point at $19 for pack of 2
- Classic fit; neither too tight nor too loose
What we don’t like:
- Some may not appreciate the added stretch
The bottom line:
This is a basic crew neck T-shirt with a classic fit at an affordable price.
Amazon Essentials Women's Classic-Fit Short-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt, Pack of 2, White, X-Large
Best varsity T-shirt for women: Faherty Cloud Cotton Varsity Tee
As a 70s child, I’m always a sucker for an old school varsity T-shirt. This one from Faherty is cut from a super soft cotton, modal blend with drop shoulders for a relaxed, vintage look. I especially love the faded dusty rose color and stripe details. Pair this with leggings or jeans for a go-to casual outfit.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XXS-XXL
- Colors: White, dry rose
- Materials: 60% Pima cotton, 40% modal
- Fit: Relaxed
What we like:
- Extremely soft
- Vintage feel
- Great dusty rose color
What we don’t like:
- Expensive at $85
The bottom line:
These are an old school, relaxed fit vintage feel varsity T-shirt made from a soft, drapey cotton, modal blend.
Faherty Cloud Cotton Varsity Tee
Best oversized T-shirt for women: Redone Hanes Oversized T
Made from recycled and organic cotton, this Hanes T-shirt from Redone is the perfect balance between oversized and flattering. Redone’s partnership with Hanes consists of reverse engineering the “perfect, vintage inspired, recycled cotton from a 1970s T-shirt.” As someone who was a kid in the 1970s wearing all manner of Hanes T-shirts, I can say that they’ve pretty much nailed it.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-L
- Colors: White, black
- Materials: 50% recycled cotton, 50% cotton
- Fit: Oversized
What we like:
- Made from recycled and organic cotton
- Vintage, 1970s inspired
- Perfect oversized fit
What we don’t like:
- Expensive at $125
The bottom line:
This shirt is made from vintage inspired, recycled cotton with an iconic Hanes silhouette.
Redone Hanes Oversized T
Best value T-shirt for women: Hanes Perfect-T
The brand name Hanes is pretty much synonymous with T-shirts. They’ve been making them since the early 1920s, so it’s no surprise that their aptly called “Perfect” T-shirt would end up on a list of best T-shirts. Simple, classic, with no extra frills, the Perfect T features a slim, long silhouette made from U.S. grown cotton with a ribbed crew neckline.
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-3XL
- Colors: Blue, forest, red, black, grey, white, and more
- Materials: 100% ring spun cotton
- Fit: Slim
What we like:
- Made from 100% U.S. grown cotton
- Durable and sturdy
- Tearaway tags
- Wide color selection
- Very affordable at $13, on sale $9
What we don’t like:
- Shrinks a bit after first washing
The bottom line:
This is a simple, classic, and durable option made of 100% cotton from one of the most recognized brands in T-shirts.
Hanes Women's Perfect-T Short Sleeve Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt
Best lightweight T-shirt for women: Madewell Whisper Cotton T
Cut from a light, slub, cotton jersey, this T-shirt from Madewell has vintage vibes and a lived-in softness that will likely make it one of your go-to tees. The curved hem is hip length and the relaxed cotton shape is neither too tight nor too loose. The fabric is lightweight for warm days or layering.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XXS-3X
- Colors: White, black, heather gray
- Materials: 100% cotton
- Fit: Relaxed
What we like:
- Wide size range
- Soft and drapey
- Curved hem
- Great price at $19.50
What we don’t like:
- Doesn’t always hold up well through washings
- A bit on the sheer side
The bottom line:
It has a thin, relaxed-fit and a vintage-feel with a curved hem at a great price.
Madewell Whisper Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt in True Black at Nordstrom, Size Large
Best V-neck T-shirt for women: Hanes X-Temp V-neck T
Made with X-Temp technology, this Hanes V-neck T-shirt adapts to your body temperature throughout the day, meaning it helps keep you cool when the thermometer rises. It features a flattering, slightly contoured fit and scooped V-neck collar for optimal style points.
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-3XL
- Colors: Black, white, gray, royal, navy, red
- Materials: 60% cotton, 40% polyester
- Fit: Classic
What we like:
- Lightweight
- Tagless (or tear away tags)
- Great price
What we don’t like:
- Some shrinkage after washing
The bottom line:
Classic fit V-neck T-shirt with temperature adaptability at an excellent price point.
Hanes Women's Perfect-T Short Sleeve Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt
Most comfortable T-shirt for women: Banana Republic Timeless T
Made from a quality cotton, modal blend, the Banana Republic Timeless T is a wonderful wardrobe staple that can easily be dressed up or down. (Think of it as an even more comfortable alternative to a classic button down shirt.) The semi-fitted shape means it’s not too tight, too boxy, too long, or too short; it’s just what the name says: timeless. We only wish it came in more colors.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XXS-XXL
- Colors: Grey, white, rose, black
- Materials: 60% cotton, 40% modal
- Fit: Semi-fitted
What we like:
- Perfect semi-fitted shape
- High quality fabric
- Silky, soft feel
- Great price at $25
What we don’t like:
- Only available in 4 colors
The bottom line:
The Timeless T is not too tight, or too loose and can go from dressy to casual with ease.
Timeless Crew-Neck T-Shirt
Best boxy T-shirt for women: Quince Cotton Modal crew neck
I recently discovered these Quince T-shirts while on a quest to replace an old favorite from another brand that had been discontinued. I wanted something soft and drapey with a relaxed fit for wearing around the house or with super casual outfits. The Quince cotton modal T-shirt checked all these boxes, plus, it costs significantly less than comparable ones from designer brands. I own several of these, in a variety of colors. In fact, I just bought some more as I was researching for this article and discovered they were on sale for $15 each.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colors: Dark gray, sienna, olive, black, white, blue, and others
- Materials: 50% cotton, 50% modal
- Fit: Relaxed with scoop neckline
What we like:
- Soft fabric
- Roomy, drapey fit
- High quality
- They’re normally $48, on sale for $15
What we don’t like:
- A bit expensive when not on sale
The bottom line:
It’s a high quality basic T-shirt made from cotton and modal for a soft, drapey, comfortable look.
Quince Cotton Modal crew neck
Best long-sleeve T-shirt for women: J. Crew Perfect Fit Long Sleeve T
Sustainably sourced, the J. Crew Long Sleeved T-shirt features a slim fit that ends just above the hip. It’s made from soft, high-quality cotton that stands the test of time exceptionally well. They’re great for layering in colder weather. Our only complaint is that they are no longer available in as many colors as they have been in the past.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XXS-3X
- Colors: Black, white, navy
- Materials: 100% cotton
- Fit: Slim
What we like:
- Slim, body-hugging shape
- Medium weight fabric
- Holds up under many washings
What we don’t like:
- Only available in limited colors
- A bit high for a T-shirt at $36.50
The bottom line:
It’s a slim-fitting, body hugging, long sleeved T-shirt made from high quality 100% cotton.
J. Crew Perfect Fit Long Sleeve T
Best 3/4-sleeve T-shirt for women: Amazon Essentials Slim-Fit ¾ Sleeve T-Shirt
Made from a cotton modal micro rib, this boat neck, ¾ length sleeve T-shirt from Amazon Essentials is the perfect addition to your T-shirt repertoire. The small percentage of stretch provides a flattering fit and all-day comfort. This T-shirt looks equally good with a pencil skirt as it does with a faded pair of jeans.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colors: Black, burgundy, charcoal, white, ivory, and more
- Materials: 58% cotton, 39% modal, 3% elastane
- Fit: Slim
What we like:
- Great price at $14
- Slim, flattering shape
- Boat neck
What we don’t like:
- May be too long for some
The bottom line:
A micro ribbed cotton modal ¾-length T-shirt that provides exceptional fit, value, and versatility.
Amazon Essentials Women's Slim-Fit 3/4 Sleeve Solid Boat Neck T-Shirt, Black, X-Small
Best cotton T-shirt for women: Buck Mason Pima Slim Crew
Inspired by classic workwear, the Buck Mason Pima Slim Crew is a wardrobe staple that will stand the test of time—and your washing machine. It’s available in a range of neutral, earthy colors and looks fantastic paired with jeans or leggings. It’s destined to become your new favorite “vintage” T-shirt.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colors: Black, white, gray, light olive, gray, and more
- Materials: 100% Pima cotton
- Fit: Slim fit short sleeve
What we like:
- Many earth-tone colors to choose from
- Excellent quality
- Vintage feel
What we don’t like:
- Limited color options
- $45 is on the higher side
The bottom line:
The Buck Mason Pima Slim Crew is a slim-fitting neutral and earth-colored T-shirt based on classic workwear designs and made from quality, sturdy 100% cotton.
Buck Mason Pima Slim Crew
Best cropped T-shirt for women: We the Free Perfect Tee
We the Free makes heritage inspired clothing with a lived-in look. This cropped tee has a flattering, just boxy enough shape, cuffed sleeves, and the perfect cropped length—not excessively short, but just hovering over your belly button. We especially love the soft, faded, worn look and feel of the fabric.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colors: Pink, sage, heather, white, black, tobacco, beige
- Materials: 100% cotton
- Fit: Boxy, cropped
What we like:
- Soft and comfortable
- Boxy but not too boxy
- Cute cropped length
What we don’t like:
- Runs small
- Priced at $40
The bottom line:
This soft and comfortable cropped T-shirt has a vintage feel and is made from 100% cotton.
We The Free The Perfect Tee
Best maternity T-shirt for women: Hatch Basic Crew 2-pack
This crew neck T-shirt from Hatch (one of the best places to buy maternity clothes) features a straight, slim shape with room for your baby bump. Soft, flattering, and perfect for layers, you’ll likely want to keep wearing them even after your pregnancy. Speaking of, if you’re in your third trimester, consider sizing up for an optimal fit.
Specifications:
- Sizes: 0-4
- Colors: White, black, gray, ivory
- Materials: 100% cotton
- Fit: Slim maternity
What we like:
- Slim, straight fit
- Soft fabric
- Can wear after your pregnancy too
What we don’t like:
- Pricey at $98
The bottom line:
The slim, straight fitting maternity T-shirt is made from soft, 100% cotton.
Hatch Basic Crew 2-pack
Best linen T-shirt for women: Mango V-Neck Linen T-shirt
This is a perfectly drapey linen T-shirt that you can dress up or down. Mango’s linen is soft, but not too sheer; both breathable and relaxed. Pair it with jeans or dressier pants, skirts or culottes for a variety of cool, summer looks. Plus, it’s available in a wide range of sizes.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XXS-4XL
- Colors: Black, fuschia, white
- Materials: 100% linen
- Fit: Straight, relaxed
What we like:
- Soft and drapey
- Inclusive sizing
- Relaxed fit
What we don’t like:
- Priced a little high at $40
The bottom line:
This light, soft linen V-neck T-shirt is ideal for all your summer looks.
Best women’s T-shirt for Running: Lululemon All Yours Cotton T-shirt
I’ve always run in loose fitting, cotton Hanes T-shirts, but was looking to step up my game with some new colors. Enter the All Yours T-shirt from Lululemon. Made from soft 100% Pima cotton with a relaxed, long fit, not only is this T-shirt great for running, it goes with just about anything. Wear it to the gym, market, coffee bar, or your own living room.
Specifications:
- Sizes: 0-20
- Colors: Black, navy, white, gray, velvet dust, blue, and more
- Materials: 100% Pima cotton
- Fit: Relaxed, hip length
What we like:
- Soft material
- Relaxed, easy fit
- Long enough so it doesn’t ride up when running
What we don’t like:
- On the expensive side at $58
The bottom line:
This is a soft, relaxed fit T-shirt perfect for running your regular route or just running errands around town.
All Yours Cotton T-Shirt
Best striped T-shirt for women: AYR the Sno Cone Striped T
A nautical inspired, striped T-shirt is one of those wardrobe essentials that every closet needs. This one from AYR has a relaxed fit for a cool, slouchy look. Comfortable and soft, you’ll be inclined to wear it with everything.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colors: White with blue stripes
- Materials: 100% Pima cotton
- Fit: Oversized
What we like:
- Soft fabric
- Perfect boxy fit
- Classic stripe combo
What we don’t like:
- Runs small
- Expensive at $68
The bottom line:
This T-shirt is made from a soft Pima cotton with a classic blue stripe on white, and is both cute and versatile.
AYR the Sno Cone Striped T
How we chose the best T-shirts for women
We chose the best T-shirts for women through personal experience, in addition to scouring reviews in order to get a good sense of which works the best for the largest number of people.
In addition to being a writer, I’m also a tailor, pattern maker, and stylist for film, television, fashion, and theater. I have professional experience when it comes to T-shirts in addition to extensive knowledge of the quality and fit of a wide variety of brands and styles.
The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.