The 16 Best V-Neck T-Shirts You’ll Want to Wear All Day Every Day
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InStyle / Kristin Kempa
A V-neck T-shirt may be an easy, reliable basic, but it’s definitely not boring — at least not if you find the perfect one. Herein lies the dilemma: These everyday tops, which are not supposed to require much effort, actually tend to need major consideration. It starts and ends with personal preference: Do you prefer a relaxed or fitted silhouette? Short sleeves or slightly longer? Lightweight fabric or a thicker material? It’s easy to get bogged down by all of the different options, but the good news is that most of these wardrobe heroes fall within an affordable range, so there’s no need to feel guilty about stocking up.
“A V-neck is a closet staple and can be styled with virtually any bottom,” says MaryKathryn Arthur, lead stylist at Short Story, a styling service for petite women.
In fact, we’d argue that the pairing options are truly endless. We love to throw a V-neck over a pair of jeans just as much as we love to tuck into a pair of cool linen shorts. Most of our favorite V-necks are made from breathable fibers, designed with sustainability in mind, and come in plenty of colorways, inclusive sizes, and fun textures.
Related: 9 Black T-Shirts for Women That Are Anything But Basic
Best Overall: Everlane Organic Cotton Slouchy V-Neck
What We Love: This shirt is completely opaque, even in white.
What We Don’t Love: It’s only offered in neutral colors.
For failsafe, high-quality wardrobe essentials, we always lean on Everlane. You’ll find so many items from the beloved brand in our closet, but it’s the T-shirts that truly shine. Namely, the Organic Cotton Slouchy V-Neck. Everything about it — from the slightly slouchy, oversized shape, the long but not too long length that falls right at the hip for perfect tucking, and deep V-neck cut to show off the collarbone to the plush feel of the organic cotton — makes it an instant classic that we return to again and again.
And unlike many other white or light-colored tees, this version is weighty enough that it doesn’t let anything underneath peek through (even a black bra), so you could wear it to work stress-free and without fear of a wardrobe malfunction. We’re still a little stunned that you can snag such a high-quality top for such an accessible price point — you’d be hard-pressed to find a better value.
We really had to nitpick to find a single con for this pick. Ultimately, though, it would be great to see the colors expand beyond neutrals.
Price at time of publish: $30
Size: XXS–XL | Materials: Organic cotton | Colors: 4
Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Women's Classic-Fit Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt
What We Love: This anything-but-basic basic is sure to be part of your everyday uniform.
What We Don’t Love: Many of the punchier colorways are often sold out.
There’s something to be said for an uncomplicated, no-frills T-shirt and this humble option made by Amazon’s in-house label is basic in the best, most useful way possible. It’s a semi-fitted design that is neither clingy and tight, nor too baggy and loose. Instead, you’ll get a nice shape around your torso, and the slightly longer length means you won’t need to pull it down or adjust it throughout the day. In terms of fabric, it’s weighty enough to feel elevated, yet still offers quite a generous amount of airflow and breathability. It’s also a shirt with features and qualities you can rely on: It’s true to size (a true gift when shopping), won’t shrink in the wash (even after dozens of cycles), and they aren’t even remotely see-through. Basically, it’s the Goldilocks of T-shirts in every way that matters.
In terms of value, there’s plenty of it, as $16 will get you a two-pack and you can choose either two shirts of the same color, or two in different, but complementary, hues. You can also go for the even more desirable four-pack, but good luck — they’re frequently out of stock, so catch them when you can.
Price at time of publish: $16
Size: XS–3XL | Materials: Cotton, modal, elastane | Colors: 53
Best White: Agolde Cameron V-Neck Tee
What We Love: It’s impossibly versatile and can easily be worn anywhere from the beach to brunch to the boardroom.
What We Don’t Love: We desperately need more colors than just white.
“I know most people will look at this price and think it’s absurd, which I totally get. I mean, I was definitely too embarrassed to admit that I shelled out for it at first. In fact, I lied and told my mother that it was from a budget brand because I knew what she’d say — “You spent how much on a T-shirt?” says Kaitlin Clark, senior beauty commerce editor. “But I think this T-shirt is maybe the best purchase I’ve ever made and I will never surrender.”
Calling it the “true epitome of power casual,” Clark says it ticks all the major high-quality boxes: The thick cotton fabric is the opposite of sheer, it fits impeccably without being too fitted or oversized, the relaxed silhouette means never needing to tug or readjust, and the structure is made to last.
“Most of the other tees I’ve had last for about a season before they lose their shape or become threadbare or less opaque and start to look sloppy, but I bought this one two years ago and have probably worn it at least once a week ever since,” says Clark. “It’s also just easy — I never have to worry about whether it looks good because I know it does and it’s the first thing I reach for when I don’t know what to wear.”
After coming clean to her mom about the pricey tee, Clark says that her response was, “So you can tell the difference between a $5 tee and one that’s $100.”
Price at time of publish: $88
Size: XS–XL | Materials: Modal, cotton | Colors: 1
Best Plus-Size: Universal Standard Ashley V-Neck Tee
What We Love: Along with plenty of color options, this wardrobe essential comes in an extensive size range.
What We Don’t Love: The shirt must be air-dried, otherwise it can shrink.
Philadelphia-based personal stylist Angela Dena Lynch relies on Universal Standard for its superior construction and size inclusivity that keep both petite and curvy types in mind. Most of their offerings go up to a size 4XL, including this V-neck, which she says is always her top pick. “I love this brand because the quality is wonderful. The material is very soft and the fit is flattering for most body types,” she says. “Plus, my clients love the color variety.”
The shirt’s slim-fitting design elongates the neckline and torso, while the shorter cap sleeves add a touch of feminine flair. Although the design lands squarely in the slim-fit category, it’s flexible, not restrictive or clingy. It also offers plenty of breathing room, courtesy of the blend of high-quality Pima cotton with stretchy elastane, to ensure a supremely comfortable fit. That said, it needs to be air-dried to maintain its shape or else you run the risk of serious shrinkage.
Price at time of publish: $58
Size: XXXXS–4XL | Materials: Pima cotton, modal, elastane | Colors: 7
Best Lightweight: Buck Mason Easy V-Neck
What We Love: Buck Mason is known for its exceptionally comfortable and polished basics, and this T-shirt is no exception.
What We Don’t Love: The neckline has a more rounded look than the traditional and crisply angular V-neck.
You can stop digging through your boyfriend's closet for the perfect slouchy T-shirt. The geniuses at Buck Mason decided it was high time that the girlfriends had their own. These boyfriend-style V-necks were specifically designed for women who want that effortless, relaxed-fit that that teeters on slightly oversized but not baggy, aesthetic (which is all of us). We’d even argue that it surpasses the comfort level of any threadbare T-shirt we’ve ever swiped from boyfriends.
Plus, this one will actually fit you nicely. With longer sleeves that extend a quarter of the way down the arm and a slightly slouchy fit, the lush fabric means it’s great for days when you just want to lounge, but it is equally fantastic when worn with a pair of high-waisted jeans for the ultimate cool girl look.
This pick might not be for the V-neck purists, though. Rather than a sharp V, the neckline falls somewhere between a V and a scoop neck.
Price at time of publish: $45
Size: XS–2XL | Materials: Cotton slub jersey | Colors: 6
Best Dressy: Nation LTD June Satin V-Neck Top
What We Love: The glossy finish from the silky rayon adds instant polish to the entire look.
What We Don’t Love: The fabric wrinkles easily.
It will never cease to amaze us how a simple fabric upgrade can transform an otherwise basic shirt into an elegant staple. Case in point: Nation LTD’s luxe twist on the classic, casual V-neck silhouette. Made from 100 percent rayon, which has been stonewashed to achieve a lighter weight and feel than a traditional silk or satin. That means this top won’t stick to your body, even on balmy summer days, and is bra-friendly, hiding any trace of bands or straps.
This flashy V-neck simply oozes sophistication with chic design details, like the ribbed neckline that attracts attention upward, and less structured fit. This sexy and laid-back style is a no-brainer for moments when you want to up your game.
However, despite the refined aesthetic, the fabric requires a bit more upkeep than standard cotton tees. Along with hand washing, you can expect to thoroughly steam the garment to smooth out creases.
Price at time of publish: $141
Size: XS–2XL | Materials: Rayon | Colors: 7
Best Deep V: Pilcro Boxy Plunge V-Neck Tee
What We Love: The vibrant colorways make this cheery top perfect for summer.
What We Don’t Love: Given the longer cropped style, it can look awkward on those with short torsos.
We love a cropped tee, especially when it falls a little longer to show a hint of skin and not putting our entire stomach on full display. This hip-skimming length is on the conservative side, but that also means it’s a more wearable silhouette than its midriff-baring cousins. But if it’s a sultry look you want, you can tug the slouchy and wide, plunging neckline down towards your elbow to bare more of your collarbone and shoulder. Just add a breezy French tuck, and you’ve got yourself a carefree, fun-loving top in a rainbow of punchy neons that can boost serotonin levels instantly.
Overall, the tee flatters most body types. Though, we will admit that the longer crop can look a bit disproportionate on those with shorter torsos.
Price at time of publish: $48
Size: XXS–XL | Materials: Cotton | Colors: 10
Best Long-Sleeve: M.M. LaFleur The Asher T-Shirt - Pima Cotton
What We Love: The loose fit provides enough space for those with larger busts.
What We Don’t Love: It must be air-dried or it will shrink.
Nothing makes us feel quite as cozy as a long-sleeve top during the chilly winter months, and this plush option from M.M. LaFleur doesn’t sacrifice one bit of style for warmth. The silhouette strikes a solid middle ground between boxy and relaxed, providing more than enough space for those with larger busts and midsections. This loose fit extends to the sleeves, which are still thin enough to roll up. Although this long-sleeve style runs large, the brand recommends sizing down if you’re looking for a fit that is slightly less baggy.
Let us warn you: The Peruvian Pima cotton is so decadently lush and soft that you may never want to take this top off. As such, frequent washing is inevitable. As long as you let it air dry, the shirt will maintain its shape and softness.
Price at time of publish: $85
Size: XS–XXL | Materials: Peruvian pima cotton | Colors: 2
Best Relaxed-Fit: Free People Sunny Days Ahead Tee
What We Love: Subtle details, including the exaggerated deep V-neckline, give this shirt a vintage-inspired lived-in look.
What We Don’t Love: Because the fabric is thin, many of the colors are somewhat sheer.
We swear by these soft, simple T-shirts, which feel comfortable, but still offer enough structure and shape to be dressed up when an occasion calls for it. They come in five soothing colors, including olive, white, sky blue, mauve, and black, made from 100 percent lightweight cotton. The longline V-neck is wide and generously dips down, which can be worn on its own or with a lacy camisole peeking out underneath if the V is too deep for your taste. The overall look is softened by the zen-like colors and light-as-a-feather material, along with small but impactful design details, like the rolled sleeves and subtle distressing. It doesn’t hurt that the cotton fabric is ridiculously soft, either. Although we could do with a slightly more opaque shade, the lighter hues look great paired with a flirty bralette while the darker hues are slightly more saturated.
Price at time of publish: $38
Size: XS–XL | Materials: Cotton | Colors: 5
Best Oversized: ASOS DESIGN Tall Oversized V-Neck T-Shirt in Rib in White
What We Love: The ribbed detailing adds a bit of soft texture to enhance the overall design of the shirt.
What We Don’t Love: It only comes in one color.
As the weather warms up, we swap our favorite oversized sweatshirts for T-shirts that are equally flowy and comfortable, like this one from Asos. Although the rich-looking material won’t provide as much warmth as our winter sweatshirts, the billowy top features tiny side slits and raglan sleeves, makes up for it in extreme comfort. The generously sized tee is as stretchy and soft as it gets. Pair it with leggings for an easy brunch look or reach for it on a day where comfort is your only priority.
Although this was technically designed for taller frames, which the brand defines as anyone five-foot-eight or taller, the longer cut doesn’t look too bulky on more petite bodies. In fact, the subtle rib design gives polished energy, and the only change we’d like to see is the additional shade options.
Price at time of publish: $20
Size: 0–16 | Materials: Viscose, polyester, spandex | Colors: 1
Best Classic V-Neck: J.Crew Vintage Cotton V-Neck T-Shirt
What We Love: With 12 colors to choose from, including both neutrals and neons, J.Crew offers the most expansive color range on our list.
What We Don’t Love: The airy fabric isn’t very durable.
When J.Crew first debuted this T-shirt in 2004, they were going for a specific look: A vintage, heathered aesthetic made from lightweight cotton that looks and feels as soft as one of your favorite lived-in tees. Needless to say, it was a major success, and the style remains a best-seller. Recently, they released the second-generation of this T-shirt design, featuring refined elements, like a slimmer neckline, longer length for tucking, and ditching the somewhat slim-fit for one that is slightly more classic with a boxy torso. Plus, they switched up their manufacturing in favor of sustainably sourced cotton and a commitment to support cotton communities. We won’t be surprised if you stock up on multiple colors: With 12 colorways and sizing from XXS to 3XL, there’s enough variety to dress your entire group of friends.
We should note that because the fabric is light as a feather, the shirt isn’t super durable. It’s not prone to ripping or becoming patchy, but too many trips in the washing machine could impact the shape.
Price at time of publish: $27
Size: XXS–3XL | Materials: Cotton | Colors: 12
Best Slim-Fit: Madewell Whisper Cotton V-Neck Tee
What We Love: Madewell’s partnership with the Better Cotton Initiative invests in local farming communities to ensure the natural material is ethically sourced.
What We Don’t Love: There aren’t many plus-size color options.
Lisa Sanchez, in-house stylist for The Nines, says this tee is her favorite “for everyday casual wear,” due to the soft, 100 percent cotton fabric. “It could even become your favorite night shirt because it’s so comfortable,” she jokes. Snuggling up in this shirt is even more enjoyable knowing that Madewell partners with the Better Cotton Initiative to improve cotton farming practices.
The light and airy shirt is perfectly slouchy, which Sanchez says makes it ideal for a French tuck. The brand also offers a vast color range, with seven options available. Unfortunately, the plus sizes don’t have as much variety (there are only two hues to choose from).
Price at time of publish: $20
Size: XXS–2XL | Materials: Cotton | Colors: 7
Best Organic: TenTree TreeBlend V-Neck T-Shirt
What We Love: TenTree offers full transparency about the shirt’s impact on the planet and takes steps to rejuvenate the environment.
What We Don’t Love: Because the shirt is partially made with polyester, it’s not the most breathable.
There are very few brands that create affordable and sustainable wardrobe pieces. And of the ones that do, TenTree leads the pack. They crafted this tee from a blend of recycled polyester fibers, eco-friendly organic cotton, and lyocell (a wood pulp-derived material harvested from sustainably grown forests). The brand goes a few steps further by planting ten trees (hence the name) for each product purchased.
We know what you’re thinking: Polyester isn’t a very breathable fabric. Considering the timeless cut, supremely soft feel, and extended color options, we’re able to overlook that fact. Besides, we reserve this shirt for chillier, in-between weather days.
Price at time of publish: $40
Size: XS–2XL | Materials: Polyester, lyocell, organic cotton | Colors: 18
Best Fitted: Mott & Bow Fitted V-Neck Marcy Tee
What We Love: This is made without a tag to prevent any itching or irritation.
What We Don’t Love: The shirt runs a little small.
If you’re on the market for a more fitted tee, Mott & Bow has you covered 13 times over. (That’s how many colors this shirt comes in.) Along with the genius tag-free design (no itching here) and featherweight feel, this slim V-neck comes preshrunk, so it won’t shrivel in the wash. However, this same feature makes it a tad smaller than other fitted shirts. If you’re in between sizes, we recommend sizing up.
Price at time of publish: $40
Size: XS–XL | Materials: Pima cotton, modal | Colors: 13
Best Value-Pack: Hanes Women's Essential-T Short Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt 2-Pack
What We Love: These T-shirts feature impressive details given the affordable price and value pack.
What We Don’t Love: The neckline doesn’t have a sharp point; it’s more rounded instead.
For those who live in V-necks, owning just one of your faves won’t cut it. Enter: The multi-pack.
According to celebrity fashion stylist Brooke Rounick, Hanes offers solid value without compromising on quality, which is likely the reason their reputation as a reliable and trustworthy brand has endured for so long. “With attention to details, including ribbed collars and hemmed sleeves, a Hanes T-shirt is a wardrobe staple essential that everyone needs,” she says.
Similar to the Buck Mason Easy V-Neck, this may not be one for the V-neck purists: The V is not as pointed or angular as you’d expect. If you can get past that, it “can be worn casually along or under a blazer,” she says.
Price at time of publish: $15
Size: S–3XL | Materials: Cotton | Colors: 22
What to Keep in Mind
Fabric
A V-neck T-shirt is simple, meaning that every detail (or lack thereof) is noticeable. If superior breathability and comfort are top priorities, we recommend selecting one made from butter-soft fabrics or a blend of fabrics made from natural fibers, like cotton, linen, or modal. Comfort aside, they are also better for the planet. They typically fall on the more casual end of things, so if you want a V-neck style with a modern vibe, look no further than the sleek Nation LTD June V-Neck Tee, which is constructed from 100 percent rayon that has been treated to feel like true silk, but even softer.
Fabric weight is another key element to consider and they can differ between brands and silhouettes. For example, although the J.Crew Vintage Cotton V-Neck T-Shirt and Everlane The Organic Cotton Slouchy V-Neck are both designed with 100 percent cotton, J.Crew’s iteration is lightweight, while the Everlane pick is much thicker. Keep in mind that the more lightweight the fabric, the more likely it will be somewhat sheer. Ultimately, coverage preference and fabric weight comes down to personal preference.
Style
While a V-neck is a core wardrobe piece, it can pull your whole outfit together, for better or worse, so it’s important that you love the way it looks on your body. One T-shirt isn’t better than another, and the only wrong choice here is snagging one you don’t feel absolutely comfortable wearing or only feel ho-hum about. There are a few crucial style features to keep in mind during your journey to find your perfect V-neck.
To start, consider the neckline. It can be deep and exaggerated, like the Free People Sunny Days Ahead Tee, or it can rest higher towards your collarbone, as seen on the TenTree TreeBlend V-Neck T-Shirt. Most importantly, think about the way you want the tee to fit around your torso: Is it a snug, slim-fit you’re after? Or perhaps something a little more slouchy and relaxed? As for the sleeves — a design detail that is often overlooked, but can have a big impact — the shorter varieties show off your arms and feel loose and airy, while the sleeves that go all the way down to your elbow can feel heavy and confined. Choose the elements that will boost your confidence with every wear.
Your Questions, Answered
How do you style a V-neck T-shirt?
V-necks are the very definition of versatile, and the reality is that there’s not much they won’t go with or an occasion where they’d look out of place. You can style them pretty much any way you like, for any occasion you want (although we’d probably draw the line at black-tie events, unless of course you tucked it into a voluminous silk taffeta ball gown).
“For an easy weekend look, grab your favorite pair of jeans or shorts and opt for a casual front tuck or tie a knot to create definition,” Arthur suggests. “To elevate your simple T-shirt, tuck it into a flirty, flowy skirt to accentuate your waist for a fun brunch look.”
Rounick loves a V-neck with a denim or leather skirt, while Sanchez often pairs hers with fitted pants, which she says gives her plenty of shoe choices. “You can go with any kind of boot, even cowboy boots, or open toe options, including sandals and wedges,” she explains. “High heels are always a fashionable choice. You might even be able to pull off loafers.” She adds that layered necklaces, especially for those deeper V-necks, are a simple way to upgrade the level of flair.
Can you still wear a V-neck T-shirt if you don’t want to show cleavage?
Definitely. There are plenty of V-necks with higher necklines that won’t reveal too much skin. Try the Buck Mason Easy V-Neck for a tee that keeps the look professional. If you’re concerned about how a certain shirt will look on your frame, plus-size fashion expert Ashby Vose advises you to try it on before purchasing. “You may find that a more oversized fit gives you the relaxed feel you crave and want to size up,” she says. “Or maybe you’re looking for a fitted tee that seamlessly tucks into your favorite bottoms, and you may have better luck with stretchier fabrics.”
Why Shop With Us
Iris Goldsztajn is a London-based freelance journalist, author, and copywriter. She covers fashion and beauty for InStyle. With the help of InStyle’s former commerce editor Mary Honkus, they searched high and low to find the most stylish V-neck tees. They also interviewed several style experts, including MaryKathryn Arthur, lead stylist at Short Story, Philadelphia-based personal stylist Angela Dena Lynch, Lisa Sanchez who serves as the in-house stylist for The Nines, and celebrity fashion stylist Brooke Rounic, along with plus-size fashion expert Ashby Vose.
Related: The 12 Best Long-Sleeve T-Shirts for Everyday Dressing
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