The Great White Shirt

So often when we style our clients, we suggest a white shirt. This fashion staple never goes out of style. Whether you’re wearing it alone, under a sweater or jacket it adds an element of classiness. It’s even been elevated to black tie when worn with a high styled pant or skirt. Sharon Stone made history at the Oscars when she wore a tailored white shirt with a long dressy skirt. Is there anything more iconic?

 Actresses and models throughout the decades have made this shirt their own by doing it their way. The Hepburns, both Audrey and Katharine, wore it well. Audrey in Roman Holiday added a tiny scarf and a long skirt. Katharine, loved the menswear look, and paired it with a trouser.  Madonna styled it with a necktie. Diane Keaton a vest. Cindy Crawford and Claudia Schiffer dressed as twins, wore it with black pants and blazing red-hot sweaters.  Angelina Jolie made it sexy in Mr. and Mrs. Smith. The rockin’ Tina Turner wore it oversized with jeans. For Carolina Herrera, it’s her go to piece. She’s said it makes her feel secure. And the spectacular Meghan Markle is, of course, amazing in a basic white shirt.

There’s so much room to make this piece your own. One should always have more than one in their wardrobe because of its endless possibilities. 

Our Marc Cain Babyskin shirts are timeless and a great layering piece. The minute you try this shirt on you will understand why some of our ladies have purchased it in every color. It feels so soft and comfy, almost like wearing nothing at all. It’s great for layering under jackets, sweaters, and cardigans. It doesn’t bunch or create bulk. Your silhouette will be smooth.  All but the top 4 buttons are faux.  There’s also a crisp collar and fold over cuff. As a layering piece it works with your body temperature so you’re not too hot or cold. We can’t say enough wonderful things about this shirt. The first time you try it you will know why it’s a winner.

If you travel a lot or not at all, a Katharina Hovman shirt is a wardrobe must.  Her styles are fashion forward. The Fitted Layered Blouse with petal collar and cuffs may be worn as an everyday shirt or very dressy.  It never needs ironing and dries very quickly when washed. It’s very lightweight and folds down to nothing, so it’s easy to pack. The versatility and ease of care make it a great choice for travel.

Another favorite is the Finley Trapeze Shirt. The A-line silhouette is a bit of a twist on the classic white shirt. The fit is a long below hip length with a back V seamed detail. A classic wing collar and ¾ cuffed sleeves finish the look. This is a great shirt to wear with leggings, slim pants or jeans. 

Whatever way you choose to wear this wardrobe staple, make it your own. There’s no wrong way to wear it. Every style has a purpose and its own flexibility. Choose a fitted style for layering, a long easy version to wear with leggings, and something that is out of the box and unique just for fun.  Let’s face it, you can never own too many white shirts and blouses. Experiment, be adventurous, and wear your looks with confidence.