10 Best T-Shirts for Women, Tested and Reviewed by a Style Expert
These tees are a great addition to any closet.
Expert consulted: Amanda ConstantineHome & Apparel Reviews Analyst
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Stocking your closet with basic, high-quality T-shirts in tons of colors makes it easier to create different outfits. That's why I set out on a hunt to find the best T-shirts with some help from the pros in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. Whether you like boxy or cropped, loose-fitting or slim, I found a T-shirt for you.
Our top picks:
- Best overall: Uniqlo Crew Neck T-Shirt
- Best value: Quince Cotton Modal Scoop Neck Tee
- Best cropped: Abercrombie Essential Baby Tee
- Best plus-size: Lane Bryant Perfect Sleeve Crew-Neck Tee
- Most durable: Bombas Women's Pima Cotton Crew Neck T-Shirt
Our fiber scientists and style experts in the Textiles Lab test all types of tees, including the best white T-shirts. We also enlisted consumer testers to wear T-shirts as they go about their day and provide us with their real-life feedback. Along with considering our testers' thoughts, we assessed which shirts performed the best in our tests in the Lab. This included our softness comparisons, shrinkage evaluations after washing and drying, opacity ratings, and pilling resistance tests. Then I wore all of these to get a sense of how each one fit.
Best Deal
Pros
- Thick, substantial material
- Opaque
- Longer length is good for tucking in
- Super soft
Cons
- Collar may fit a bit tight for some
WHY WE LOVE IT: If you're shopping on a budget or looking to purchase multiple tees without spending too much, Uniqlo is our go-to brand for affordable, quality clothing. This top-selling T-shirt has a snug fit that's great for layering under sweaters, but it's not skin-tight, which I found to be comfortable. The material is slightly thick, so the shirt is a warmer option for winter.
TESTING NOTES: Textiles Lab Product Analyst Grace Wu loves "the thick, substantial collar on the T-shirt—it makes it feel elevated." Unlike Wu, I wasn't crazy about the collar as I found that it fit a bit too tightly around my neck, but that's a personal preference. Wu also appreciates the fabric that is a comfortable thickness and relatively opaque, so even your favorite non-nude bra likely won't peek through. I found the fabric to feel super soft while still structured.
Wu also notes that the T-shirt's longer length is great for tucking in. If you prefer not to tuck shirts into pants like me, I love wearing this shirt with low-rise jeans because it is long enough to hit the top of the pants without showing skin.
Features at a Glance
| Sizes | XXS–XXL |
| Materials | 100% cotton |
| Colors | 10 |
Pros
- Comfortable neckline
- Thin and breathable
- Flexible material
Cons
- A bit see-through
- May fit tight around the bust for some
WHY WE LOVE IT: Scoop-neck tees are more comfortable in my opinion, and I love that this shirt's neckline is structured without feeling tight around the neck. The fabric is thin and breathable, so it's a lightweight layer under cardigans and sweaters.
TESTING NOTES: One of our consumer testers said, "It's softer and more flexible than my 100% cotton tees. Since it's more flexible, it drapes better and feels nicer on my skin." For me, the fit is snugger than I'd like around the bust, so if you wear a bigger bra size, you may want to size up in this tee. But the shirt is still soft and stretchy, even in the tighter areas. A consumer tester and I also found the shirt to be a little see-through.
RELATED: Everything That's Worth Buying from Quince, According to Our Editors
Features at a Glance
| Sizes | XS–XL |
| Materials | 50% cotton, 50% modal |
| Colors | 9 |
Pros
- Soft feel
- Great length
- True to size
- Resistant to shrinking
Cons
- Some testers found it see through
WHY WE LOVE IT: I'm a fan of Abercrombie, so maybe I'm biased, but this is by far the softest, most comfortable T-shirt that I own. I'm planning to buy it in more colors for the summer. Baby tees are my favorite type of T-shirts because I find them to be the ideal cropped length for my body's proportions. The hem isn't too short or too long, but hits right at my belly button, so this is a good length to wear with mid- or low-rise jeans, where only a tiny sliver of skin shows. Associate Director of the Textiles Lab Emma Seymour loves the length of this shirt for tucking into high-rise pants. "It was the perfect length to tuck into my jeans without riding up or having too much extra fabric."
TESTING NOTES: One of our consumer testers and Seymour found this shirt to be a tad see-through, but I didn't have that issue with the light gray shirt. I sized up because I find that clothing runs small at Abercrombie, but I definitely should have gotten my regular size for a tighter fit, which is how the shirt is supposed to be. Plus, it hasn't even shrunk after laundering, and I love that the shirt doesn't get easily wrinkled.
Seymour also likes the sleeves, and I agree: They're the perfect shape and length—it doesn't ride up my armpit (and I was shocked that I had zero sweat stains after wearing this gray shirt to work all day!).
Features at a Glance
| Sizes | XXS–XXL |
| Materials | 95% cotton, 5% elastane |
| Colors | 7 |
Pros
- Range of plus-size options and lengths
- Thinner material can be good for warmer weather or layering
- Not too tight or clingy
Cons
- Can be a bit see-through
WHY WE LOVE IT: We appreciate that we can always depend on Lane Bryant for on-trend styles in extensive sizing (the brand even sells one of our favorite bras for large busts). This loose-fitting crewneck tee comes in sizes 10/12 to 38/40, including regular and long lengths for taller folks. It's also available in a variety of colors, including patterns like stripes and floral.
TESTING NOTES: One of our consumer testers gave this shirt perfect scores for every category, including appearance, softness, and fit. However, she found the shirt to be a bit see-through, as did our pros in the Textiles Lab. It's on the thinner side, which makes it best for warmer months or to layer under sweaters and jackets.
Another tester highlighted the cut of the shirt, saying, "It wasn't too tight or clingy." Textiles Lab Product Analyst Amanda Constantine says, "The tee has an uneven hemline that dips down a little longer in the back for added coverage." We also like the longer, looser sleeves that feel comfortable around the shoulders.
RELATED: The Best Plus-Size Clothing Brands
Features at a Glance
| Sizes | 10/12 to 38/40, in regular and long lengths |
| Materials | 60% cotton, 40% polyester |
| Colors | 9 |
Pros
- Pima cotton is durable and resistant to wrinkling
- Super soft
- Long, tailored sleeves
Cons
- Pricey
WHY WE LOVE IT: If you're willing to splurge a little, this is a T-shirt that can last for a long time—and you'll always want to reach for it. Made with pima cotton, which is a type of higher-quality cotton, this T-shirt is durable and has a super-soft and smooth feel. Pima cotton clothing is more resistant to wrinkling and ripping, so this closet staple can withstand plenty of wear.
TESTING NOTES: In our Textiles Lab tests, our fiber scientists gave this shirt a high softness rating and said there was a bit of dimpling across the shirt, but otherwise, there was no major issues with the fabric or rolling at the hem.
The sleeves are a tad longer than other T-shirts, but they're not too loose, so the silhouette looks tailored. One of our consumer testers shared, "I like that the sleeves are mid-length and fitted—not long and baggy like so many tees, but also not compensating too much the other way." While this tester said the price is higher than they'd normally pay for a T-shirt, they "appreciate the value of having a few high-quality tees in the wardrobe."
Features at a Glance
| Sizes | XS–2X |
| Materials | 100% pima cotton |
| Colors | 13 |
Pros
- Substantial, durable fabric
- Boxy style offers a loose fit without looking oversize
- Great length
Cons
- Wide sleeves aren't the best for layering under sweaters
WHY WE LOVE IT: For a nice balance between baggy and curve-hugging, turn to this boxy tee from Uniqlo which has a chic, drapey cut that manages to fit loosely without looking utterly shapeless.
TESTING NOTES: While I found the sleeves to be somewhat too big for my liking, and the tee doesn't layer well under a sweater, I love the length, which falls right below my hips, making it a comfy yet stylish choice for bloated days. The unique knitted fabric has a more substantial heft that almost has a mesh-like feel, and Constantine notes that this tee feels more durable than others.
Features at a Glance
| Sizes | XXS–XXL |
| Materials | 77% rayon, 23% nylon |
| Colors | 6 |
Pros
- Gender-neutral fit
- Heavyweight cotton feels durable
- Wide-set seams create a roomier fit through the shoulders
Cons
- Size range doesn't include sizes for petite women
WHY WE LOVE IT: For a laid-back style that looks good on all bodies and genders, consider this unisex tee with a straight cut and relaxed fit. The wide crewneck lies flat and the shoulder seams extend outward for a roomier fit in comparison to most women's shirts with seams that sit closer to the neck.
TESTING NOTES: Beyond the fit, the Beefy-T from Hanes is the thickest T-shirt I've worn. It's made with heavyweight cotton with a high-density stitch count for extra durability and a substantial feel. I found that the thicker fabric helps maintain the shirt's shape without being clingy and hides any bra or undershirt lines underneath.
While the sizes are unisex, I wish they offered additional smaller sizes for shorter people, considering I fit into the smallest option, and I'm 5'6.
Features at a Glance
| Sizes | S–3XL |
| Materials | 100% cotton |
| Colors | 11 |
Pros
- High opacity scores
- Not clingy
- Heavyweight without feeling stiff
Cons
- High collar may not be comfortable for everyone
WHY WE LOVE IT: This is Constantine's all-time favorite tee. The organic cotton fabric is heavyweight, yet not the least bit stiff. Its wide band collar sits higher on the neck, which some may find uncomfortable though.
TESTING NOTES: "It's the softest T-shirt I've owned," shared one of our consumer testers. "I didn't realize something so structured could feel so soft." Our testers enjoyed wearing it on its own or under sweaters and blazers, and liked that it didn't cling to their stomachs or chests. It received the highest opacity scores in our tests in the Textiles Lab, completely concealing a black bra, and showed minimal shrinkage after going through the washer and dryer.
Features at a Glance
| Sizes | XXS–XL |
| Materials | 100% cotton |
| Colors | 10 |
Pros
- Tons of color options
- Extensive size range
- Super soft
Cons
- More cropped than some online reviewers expected
WHY WE LOVE IT: Everlane is known for its elevated wardrobe basics, and its Box-Cut Tee is a great example. The breathable cotton and relaxed fit are perfect for wearing day after day, although the somewhat cropped length may not be for everyone. There are more than 20 shades to choose from, a broad size range that goes from XXS to XXL, and even the option for a pocket tee in select colors.
TESTING NOTES: Our pros in the Textiles Lab gave this shirt high scores for softness, and Constantine called it "one of the softest tees" she has tested. She also said it has a "super nice quality" and that it is a "great boxy style, but not too cropped or short." Constantine is 6 feet tall, but some online reviewers wrote that the shirt was shorter than they had expected. So, while it's not a true cropped shirt, keep in mind that it only hits right around the hips.
Features at a Glance
| Sizes | XXS–XXXL |
| Materials | 100% cotton |
| Colors | 26 |
Pros
- Moisture wicking
- Flexible and stretchy
- Substantial feel for a ribbed shirt
Cons
- Logo on the exterior
WHY WE LOVE IT: Vuori is another popular athleisure brand that's really popping off with its clothing essentials. The Pose Fitted T-shirt is super soft and isn't as short compared to other cropped tees, so it can be a more versatile staple. The modal rayon and elastane blend material is constructed with four-way stretch and is moisture-wicking, so you can wear it on warm days or while exercising without worrying about pit stains showing.
TESTING NOTES: Seymour has owned the tee for years and washed it countless times, and finds that it's still in great condition—which helps make up for higher price tag. Seymour adds that it's her favorite ribbed tee. I agree: Most of my other ribbed tees feel thin and flimsy, but this one is thick yet flexible, so it moves with my body. The length is excellent for pairing with high- or mid-rise pants.
My only complaint about the shirt is that I'm not a huge fan of the Vuori logo on the T-shirt's exterior—it looks like I forgot to take off a tag.
Features at a Glance
| Sizes | XXS–XXL |
| Materials | 87% modal rayon, 13% elastane |
| Colors | 4 |
How we test the best T-shirts for women
Experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab test all of your favorite wardrobe essentials, including women's T-shirts. To curate this guide, we began with market research of top-performing brands we have previously evaluated alongside staff favorites and online best-sellers. For shirts that we tested in the Textiles Lab, our analysts and fiber scientists evaluated the fabric's opacity, softness, shrinkage, and resistance to pilling. Our pros observed how each T-shirt washed and whether or not a black bra would be visible through the material.
We also gave each of the T-shirts to consumer testers who provided their feedback on fit, style, comfort, opacity, and softness.
What to look for when shopping for the best T-shirts for women
Obviously a T-shirt is fairly, well, basic. But there are still some style differences to keep in mind while shopping.
✔️ Material: Most T-shirts are made from a 100% cotton jersey material that feels soft to the touch and stretches for that iconic tee fit. Cotton blends can be even softer, while synthetics are great performance materials that have better moisture-wicking capabilities. Fitted tees may contain spandex or elastane for extra stretch.
✔️ Neckline: Crewneck, v-neck, and scoop are the three most popular necklines. Crewneck is a classic neckline and fits closest to your neck. A scoop neckline with a U-shape provides a little less coverage, while a v-neck dips downward in a "V" towards the chest.
✔️ Length: T-shirts are available in cuts from cropped to long. "Traditionally, tees are designed to hit just below the waistline to easily tuck into your favorite jeans or leave undone for a more casual look, but many brands are opting for T-shirts with cropped hemlines," says Constantine. Think about whether you want the hem to meet or cover your waistband, to reveal a bit of skin, or to be long enough to tuck in. Seymour recommends shoppers "look at the T-shirt’s length before purchasing, especially if you are tall or petite to ensure a proper fit."
✔️ Fit: "Women’s T-shirts tend to have a slimmer cut, which is meant to emphasize your shape without feeling too restrictive or too bulky," explains Constantine. More form-fitting tees will accentuate curves, while boxy tees have a modern, structured look. For a relaxed or casual look, Constantine suggests a slightly loose or oversize tee.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
The analysts, stylists, and fiber scientists in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab regularly test apparel like T-shirts, pajamas, activewear, jackets, and shoes.
Isabella Cavallo is the editorial commerce editor at the GH Institute. She has years of experience reviewing all sorts of products, including apparel. Outside of work, Cavallo loves to put together new outfits and is always trying on clothing from different brands.
To write this article, Cavallo spoke with Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine, who leads our tests of tees, including white T-shirts for women. Constantine shared product picks, personal faves, and shopping advice.
Cavallo also personally wore almost every shirt on this roundup, and for the few she hasn't, our residential style pro Constantine has tried.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
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