There’s something about the right chic white top that makes everything you wear with it, and you, look better. Just like that.
It’s the piece you reach for in summer, in those moments when you want to feel pulled together without trying too hard. But to find one under £60 that looks worth more, you must get detailed.
The difference between a basic white top and a chic white top is always in the finer detail. It pays to look for a precise cut and elevated details like draping, tucks, light tailoring, covered buttons, or an elegant Bardot shoulder.
Each of the chic white tops in this edit has a design detail that lifts it into more refined territory.
The Cos jersey top is the modern one. Its elegant draping and asymmetric hem gives it polish, making it ideal with relaxed jeans or smart trousers and a blazer.
Massimo Dutti’s cotton Bardot-shouldered top is the dress-up option. At £39.95, it’s pared-back and chic enough for city days or summer evenings. Styled with minimal gold or silver jewellery and a white linen trouser, white jean or a floaty linen skirt, it will look a million dollars.
Arket’s V-neck cotton top with drawstring ties at the hem is the playful one. Simple and elegant, but with just enough detail to make it feel considered, instead of cutesy. Bonus, it's currently 21% off.
Over at Marks and Spencer, who continue to think of everything we may need to update our wardrobes, there are several strong options. I’ve already written about their excellent pure white linen V-neck top. Other elevated pieces include their precisely cut white waistcoat at £40, and a pretty yet still minimal long-sleeved cotton top with a sweetheart neckline and covered buttons.
Each of these sits firmly in chic white top territory. These isn't a whiff of T-shirt, Oxford shirt, or pretty blouse about them. It’s this distinction that makes them worthy of attention; all that remains is to choose which will come on your summer adventures.
