14 Best T-Shirts for Women, According to Style Editors Who Test Tees
These are our favorite short- and long-sleeve T-shirts that wash well and aren't see-through.
Tested by Amanda ConstantineHome & Apparel Reviews Analyst
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For such a simple top, it can be downright impossible to find a T-shirt that doesn't pill in the wash, appear see-through or feel rough against your skin. We combed through personal favorites and best-sellers from brands we've tested over the years to find the best T-shirts for women that are oh-so-soft and stylish.
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, our pros evaluate clothing essentials including the best T-shirts for men and women. For the tees that we've gotten hands-on with, we considered material, neckline, fit, and price and got in-depth with online shopper reviews. Whether you need a loose-fitting tee for travel or a basic crewneck for French-tucking into your favorite jeans, we've got a T-shirt for you.
Sizes: XXS–XXL | Material: 100% organic cotton | Colors: 26
WHY WE LIKE IT: Everlane is known for its basic styles and wardrobe essentials, including this box-cut tee. We appreciate the extensive color variety and the option for a pocket tee in select colors. The breathable material and relaxed fit are perfect for everyday wear, although the somewhat cropped length may not be everyone's style.
WHAT SHOPPERS ARE SAYING: One five-star review shared, "The material is so soft and comfortable on the skin. I have bought this T-shirt in multiple colors."
Sizes: XXS–XXL | Material: 100% cotton | Colors: 12
WHY WE LIKE 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. Another top-seller, this T-shirt has a snugger fit that's great for layering under sweaters.
WHAT EXPERTS ARE SAYING: Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst Grace Wu loves "the thick, substantial collar on the T-shirt — it makes it feel elevated." She also appreciates the Goldilocks fabric that isn't too thick or thin and likes that the tee is relatively opaque, so even your favorite non-nude bra likely won't peek through.
Wu does note that the T-shirt has a longer length that's great for tucking in. Select sizes are currently out of stock in certain colors, but the brand typically replenishes inventory.
Sizes: XXS–XXL | Material: 100% cotton | Colors: 4
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you are a frequent Madewell shopper, then you may be familiar with the brand's best-selling Whisper tees (our previous best v-neck pick). The Slub Perfect V-Neck Tee is also lightweight and made with 100% cotton, but features slight variations in the yarn that give the tee a unique texture.
WHAT SHOPPERS ARE SAYING: "The fit [and] the thickness are perfect for any weather — either alone or under a sweater," shared one five-star reviewer, while another satisfied shopper called it the "perfect v-neck." One reviewer found the fabric to be more substantial than the previous Whisper T-shirt.
Sizes: XXS–XL | Material: 100% organic cotton | Colors: 35
WHY WE LIKE IT: This is Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine's all-time favorite tee. It received the highest opacity scores in GH testing, completely concealing a black bra, and showed minimal shrinkage after going through the washer and dryer. The tee is heavyweight (but not stiff!), though its collar sits higher on the neck, which some may find uncomfortable.
WHAT TESTERS ARE SAYING: "It's the softest T-shirt I've owned," shared one tester. "I didn't realize something so structured could feel so soft." Testers enjoyed wearing it on its own or under sweaters and blazers, and liked that it didn't cling to their stomachs or chests.
Amazon Essentials Women's Classic-Fit Short-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt, Pack of 2
Sizes: XS–XXL | Material: 56% cotton, 37% modal, 7% spandex | Colors: 29
WHY WE LIKE IT: Amazon is a great place for affordable shopping and quick shipping (two days if you're an Amazon Prime member). Amazon Essentials often appears in our style round-ups. We appreciate the cotton-blend composition for all-day comfort.
WHAT SHOPPERS ARE SAYING: Multiple five-star reviews commented on how the T-shirt is thicker than expected, though not too thick for summer weather. One shopper noted that the white color is slightly see-through. Still, shoppers praised the tee's quality construction.
Sizes: S–5XL | Material: 100% cotton | Colors: 21
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you're a fan of Hanes bralettes, bras and boxers, you'll probably love the T-shirts too. We like the lightweight cotton material for wearing on its own in warm weather or layering under a cardigan in the fall or winter.
We love that the women's T-shirt is available in sizes up to 5XL, but wish it came in sizes smaller than S. Although some Amazon reviews said the tee can shrink.
WHAT SHOPPERS ARE SAYING: Shoppers praised the tee's appearance, quality and value. One five-star reviewer wrote, "These shirts are my go-to for work and simple outfits! They have a nice straight-form look and the sleeves are roomy!"
RELATED: Hanes Beefy-T Review
Sizes: XS–XL | Material: 50% cotton, 50% modal | Colors: 5
WHY WE LIKE IT: Quince is all about stylish trends for less, including this $15 v-neck available in an array of neutral tones. We've featured the brand in multiple shopping guides, from the best joggers to the best cashmere sweaters. Our experts are often impressed by its quality designs across clothing categories.
WHAT SHOPPERS ARE SAYING: One five-star review reported, "It is keeping its shape perfectly after washing, plus no wrinkles." The shopper currently owns four but would love to see even more colors available. Other reviewers also said they've ordered more than one tee, and thanks to the budget-friendly price, it's easy on your bank account.
RELATED: Everything That's Worth Buying from Quince, According to Our Editors
Sizes: XXS–XXL (regular, tall, petite) | Material: 58% cotton, 39% modal, 3% spandex | Colors: 4
WHY WE LOVE IT: Constantine loves Gap for its variety of T-shirts in different lengths and necklines. This long-sleeve tee has a crew neckline and is made from a soft cotton blend. The brand says it has a loose fit, but you can always size down if you want it to fit more snugly. The brand offers regular, tall and petite sizing and frequently runs sales.
WHAT SHOPPERS ARE SAYING: It's a top seller among Gap shoppers who find it fits true to size in the chest area but it can run long. Five-star reviews praise the long-sleeve T-shirt's quality. One satisfied shopper wrote that it's a "perfect fit and holds its shape while wearing instead of stretching out through the day."
Lululemon Wundermost Ultra-Soft Nulu Crewneck Cropped T-Shirt
Sizes: XS–XL | Material: 79% nylon, 21% Lycra elastane | Colors: 4
WHY WE LIKE IT: GH analysts have reviewed a variety of Lululemon products from its maternity leggings to the brand's ever-popular belt bag. The Wundermost T-shirt features Lululemon's best-selling Nulu material that makes it super soft and snug.
WHAT EXPERTS ARE SAYING: Associate Director of the GH Textiles Lab Emma Seymour owns three of these tees and wears one almost every week! "I especially love how they’re so smoothing. I can even go braless," she says.
"It’s perfectly cropped at my waist, so it’s ideal to wear with high-waisted jean shorts or wide-leg pants," adds Seymour. She does note that she sized up for a less constrictive fit since the T-shirt is fitted and adds that the material isn't super moisture-wicking.
Sizes: XXS–XXL | Material: 87% modal rayon, 13% elastane | Colors: 2
WHY WE LIKE 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 cropped compared to other tees, so it can be a more versatile staple. The T-shirt has four-way stretch and is moisture-wicking — so you can wear it on sweaty days while traveling without fear of pit stains seeping through.
WHAT EXPERTS ARE SAYING: Seymour has owned the tee for years and washed it countless times and finds that it's still in great condition — that definitely makes the price more worth it. Despite the garment's high price, Seymour adds that it's her favorite ribbed tee.
Sizes: XXS–3X | Material: 100% linen | Colors: 11
WHY WE LIKE IT: We've included J.Crew clothing in our round-ups of the best women's suits and bathing suits for women. While its preppy striped versions may not match everyone's aesthetic, the solid bright and neutral colors are timeless for almost any style preference.
Unlike other tees on this list that are made of cotton or cotton blends, the relaxed fit crewneck is made from 100% linen. Because linen can wrinkle after washing, make sure to machine wash it in cold water and tumble dry on low or hang it to dry.
WHAT SHOPPERS ARE SAYING: One satisfied shopper who has bought multiple linen J.Crew tees shared, "They are always perfect for hot summers in the south. They go with everything and can be worn in a variety of ways."
Sizes: 4XS–4XL | Material: 48% Peruvian cotton, 48% modal, 4% elastane | Colors: 14
WHY WE LIKE IT: Not only does this T-shirt come in inclusive sizing, but it's also available in two necklines and sleeve lengths as well as in petite. It's made from a soft cotton blend, runs true to size, and is designed to be wrinkle resistant. Note that Universal Standard tends to run out of stock in select colors and sizes, so our shopping experts recommend buying this tee ASAP.
WHAT SHOPPERS ARE SAYING: One five-star review said it's "easy to dress up or down," while another shopper shared they "love the color, the weight and the durability."
One reviewer was not a huge fan of the fit as they found the shirt flared out rather than fit snugly along the waist, but they did appreciate that the neckline wasn't too low or too high — a difficult balance for v-necks.
Skims Cotton Jersey T-Shirt
Sizes: XXS–4X | Material: 90% cotton, 10% spandex | Colors: 11
WHY WE LIKE IT: Our textiles experts have reviewed Skims clothing and reached the verdict that the brand sells pieces worth investing in. We like that this T-shirt is designed to be breathable and stretchy so you'll stay cool and comfortable no matter what the day brings.
WHAT SHOPPERS ARE SAYING: This T-shirt has an impressive following online with several shoppers calling it "so comfy" and a "staple piece." One satisfied customer shared, "This is my absolute GO-TO!!! It’s the perfect shirt. I recommend it to all my friends. It’s so flattering and [has] a great thickness." One reviewer noted that you may want to size down for a less snug fit if desired.
RELATED: Best Workout Tops for Women
Sizes: XXS–XL | Material: 100% Pima cotton | Colors: 2
WHY WE LIKE IT: Spending almost $100 on a singular tee may seem a bit out there. But we'll make the case for Rag & Bone's slim-fitting short-sleeve tee that has subtle stitching details along the collar and back. What really draws us in is that the brand's high-quality clothing is built to last.
WHAT SHOPPERS ARE SAYING: Customers reported that the T-shirt washes well, and one five-star review wrote, "This is the best T-shirt I have ever bought!!! It is well worth the price. It fits me perfectly."
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 and considered staff favorites as well as online best-sellers.
For the tees we put to test in the Lab and among consumer testers, we observed how each T-shirt washed and whether or not we could see a black bra through the tee. Testers provided feedback on fit, style, comfort and softness.
What to look for when shopping for the best T-shirts for women
Yes, a basic tee can be just that: 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 classic 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 the most classic neckline and fits closest to your neck. Meanwhile, a scoop neckline with a U-shape provides a little less coverage. A v-neck has a neckline in the shape of a "V" with a point towards the chest.
✔️ Length: T-shirts come in different lengths. "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 to show a bit of your stomach or have the option to tuck in your tee. 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 flatter your curves, while boxy tees have a modern, squared look. For a more rounded look, Constantine recommends a relaxed tee that fits looser or has an oversized fit.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Elizabeth Berry is the updates editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she collaborates with analysts in all Labs to ensure our product guides reflect accurate information. She has written on a variety of style topics including tank tops and undershirts for women.
To write this article, Berry spoke with Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine who led our most recent test of white T-shirts for women. Constantine shared product picks, personal faves and shopping advice.
Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College.
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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