Six ways to wear a white shirt

I thought we’d keep it straightforward and easy this week with a perennial classic: the simple, white, button-down collared shirt, and six ways in which to style it. I’m sure you all have a white shirt kicking around in your wardrobe somewhere. I admit I have neglected mine of late, but I wore it again this week and it reminded me just how versatile it is. This post is basically for my own benefit, to give me some more ideas on how to wear it.

Believe it or not, I only have two white shirts: a very old, short-sleeved one from COS and the Connie shirt from Boden, which is the quintessential cotton button-up. I tend to size up by one size in all my shirts, as anything tight across the bust causes the dreaded button-gape and no one wants that.

Wear your nude bra under anything white if you don’t want underwear showing. My current favourite is this one from Uniqlo. Like the big pants, it won’t get you a boyfriend, and it does give slight ‘Mrs Doubtfire’ vibes when you’re not actually wearing it, BUT it’s supremely comfortable and smooths everything out. Comfort is king in my world. It’s also lightly padded so no potentially cold or excited nipples on show either.

But enough about nipples, let’s have a look at some uncomplicated white-shirt-based outfits to inspire you (me) when getting dressed this week.

COSY CASUAL WITH JEANS

I know these Raey jeans feature a lot, but they are one of my all-time favourite everyday jeans. Size DOWN if you decide to try – I cannot stress this enough. Blue jeans are the perfect accompaniment to your classic white shirt. Wear in the summer with rolled sleeves and sandals. Layer under a chunky knit and coat for now because, as predicted ‘hasn’t it got cold?’ Not sure why we should be surprised; it is winter after all…

WITH A SMART MIDI SKIRT

More layering here. Wear your black vest underneath for a nice bit of contrast and add a cardi on top because, as we’ve already established, it’s cold. Layering like this allows you to still have a fully functioning outfit, no matter how many hot flushes you get. Although, saying that, since I’ve been on the HRT for 3 months, my 20+ daily hot sweats have been reduced to none, which in turn has reduced my need to strip off at a moment’s notice. For that, I am truly thankful.

WITH PREPPY DARK DENIM AND A CARDI

I think this is my favourite outfit of this set. If you’re thinking of dipping a toe (or some legs) into a pair of wider jeans this year, I can recommend these from Uniqlo. They are true to size, not TOO wide and look great with a turn-up. In fact, the paler denim version of these are an absolute dead ringer for the very on-trend Citizens Of Humanity ones, but for just a tenth of the price. I love it when this happens.

WITH SORT-OF-SMART TROUSERS & A PUFFER

Currently, one of my go-to outfits is the grey trousers, white shirt, crew-neck jumper and trainers combo. I’d usually add a blazer, but this past week it’s been the trusty puffer jacket. I ordered two from this weeks Puffer Jacket post. I already have a jacket that gives medium warmth, I wanted one that was ultra warm for football and dog walks. The Uniqlo one I liked but it didn’t feel as cosy as the Abercrombie one, so that’s the one I kept. It’s cropped though, so if you’re looking for something that covers your bum, go for the mens version.

WITH A MINI SKIRT & POLO NECK

Yet more layering. This time, why not try a fine-knit, high-neck jumper under your white shirt? I admit it’s not a look for everyone. Me included, but only because I think my wattle/waddle looks more pronounced in a tight turtle neck. I’m all about the crew necks or the oversized polo necks that come up to the chin and hide it completely. If, however, you have a nice, long neck with an actual jawline, this one would work for you.

SILK SHIRT & A WAISTCOAT

Finally, the waistcoat. Some might be happy about this, some might have hoped this trend was coming to an end. I predict waistcoats will still be a ‘thing’ in 2024. Wear now with your white shirt, wear in the summer with a plain white T‑shirt or, if you dare, with nothing underneath. For a smarter take, look for a silk shirt. I have two silk shirts in my wardrobe; both are over 8 years old and they are still something I reach for when I want to feel a little bit more ‘put together’. I blame Gillian Anderson in the ‘The Fall’ for this, entirely.

For those waiting for another The Traitors special, I will do one soon. I was just holding off to see some more of Claudia’s outfits before I start the search for some similar (maybe less expensive) pieces for you to copy her looks. So far, I am LOVING this new series. It’s such a great formula and the styling is again excellent by Sinead McKeefry

K x

WearsMyMoney

I spent it all on clothes by the looks of things...