The White Shirt: A Staple

Crisp. Clean. Classic. Chic.

The white shirt is not only a classic piece for your wardrobe, but it is an anchor that many looks can be built around, plus it has the versatility to work with almost anything else in the closet. The right white blouse can also be incredibly flattering to your silhouette. It’s just a matter of finding the white shirt that is right for you.
(A Classic style by Theory found at Nordstrom)

There are many different styles out there and each style is going to work for a different body and style personality.
But nothing says style like a great White Shirt

Look for two more upcoming chapters on “The White Shirt, a staple”

(A Wrap Style from the Donna Karen Collection, found at Nordstrom)
What are the different styles?
The white shirt has become such an important garment that there are now many styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming to try to find the perfect one for you!

• There is the Classic men’s wear inspired shirt; which can go from something very fitted with well placed darts and seams, to something more relaxed and easy in fit.
The Classic White blouse is structured and collared. It fits a person with a more classic or conventional style, but it also the most diverse type of white shirt. The range of fit and design varies greatly with this classic shirt, so you still must be selective and finding the right one for you. There are some really beautiful classic white shirts out there now, so well designed and constructed that they can be worn as a jacket, (a great alternative in warmer weather.)

• There is the Tunic, which is longer at the hem, and designed to wear out and let flow. The tunic can still have a tailored fit, but is generally more casual in feel and works well for someone with a dramatic or creative style. The tunic is often constructed with a variety of different fabrics including jersey and lace. The Tunic is often that easy throw over anything piece. It is considered a comfortable and stylish garment. This is a great white shirt for traveling, especially if it is made out of low maintenance material. A structured Tunic works well as a jacket alternative as well, over a colorful tank or T.
(A Tunic Style by XCVI wearables at Nordstrom)

• The Wrap is another popular style the white shirt is found in. The wrap shirt is a very body conscious side to the white shirt and usually very flattering. Sometimes this style can be a bit to revealing, so make sure it falls across your bust line appropriately. The wrap appeals to a woman with an alluring, or sometimes elegant style. The wrap style is often found in dressier materials great for evening wear and creates a very sophisticated cocktail look when paired with dress slacks or an evening skirt. The wrap Blouse can also be great for a business look if it is properly fastened, or worn with a camisole underneath, it looks terrific underneath the right suit. Another take on the wrap style white blouse is the Cinched blouse, which creates emphasis at the waist with a belt. And is a great addition to a professional wardrobe.

What Style of White Shirt has the most Appeal for you?

Keep in mind that all three of these styles vary tremendously with variations on collars, sleeve lengths, cuffs, hem details, and closures. This is a lot to think about, if you feel overwhelmed, you may want to get a professional to help you.