Three of The Best - Plain White Tees

The plain white t-shirt, where do we start? It manages to somehow be something that almost everyone wears but almost nobody talks about.
 
From PE lessons at school to under a blazer at a dinner party, this humble garment lays claim to being your wardrobe’s most flexible and hard working ally.
 
But its attraction doesn’t stop at being useful, the classic white tee been endorsed by almost every celebrity under the sun over the years, making it arguably the most low key item of clothing to garner sex appeal.
 
From Marlon Brando, James Dean and Steve McQueen to Ryan Gosling, Tom Hardy and Harry Styles (don’t let Simon Cowell’s love for one ruin these mental images).
 
So, with all of this acclaim, why do so many people choose a crap one? Maybe it’s the simplicity that makes them think they’re all the same. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Whilst you don’t necessarily have to break the bank for a good tee, quality and shape is vital if you want to look your best.
 
So, without further ado, let us introduce three of our favourite plain white tees.
 
Uniqlo U Short Sleeve Crew Neck T-Shirt

 
Uniqlo U is the worst kept secret in very affordable, high quality basics.
 
The Japanese clothing giant struck gold when they enlisted  fashion royalty Christophe Lemaire to design a capsule collection of elevated basics for everyday wear.
 
Even more impressive is the fact they kept the prices in line with their regular offering. One of these beauties will set you back less than thirteen quid when a Lemaire tee will cost you in the region of ten times that amount.
 
The fit is boxy, the sleeves are slightly longer than normal, the material heavier and the neckline thicker. All of this gives it a heritage look and feel way in excess of its price tag. It won’t get misshapen in the wash either.
 
In fact, there’s very little reason why you shouldn’t have a few in your rotation.
 
 
United Athle 7.1oz Heavyweight T-Shirt

 
Also hailing from Japan, United Athle are far less well known on these shores than Uniqlo. They are most well known for producing high quality “blanks” - plain tees, sweats and hoodies that are sold in bulk for companies to print their own designs upon.
 
However, make no mistake, their stuff is top drawer within in its own right.
 
If you can find a UK stockist (Blacksmith Store and Peckham Supply are a couple of very few) then you’d be sensible to pick a couple up to find out why they have a cult following.
 
They’re produced to Japanese standards, which means they will last but won’t shrink or curl, at a really reasonable price. They are available in a selection of weights to suit your layering choices or the time of year, and our favourite is the 7.1oz heavyweight option.
 
It feels robust with a dry handle and will set you back around twenty quid. Bargain.
 
 
Arket Basics Collection

 
The H&M Group added Arket to their other brands a few years back now. It’s classy, pared back Skandi aesthetic is designed to appeal to a slightly more discerning and grown up customer base than they’re usually associated with.
 
They offer a great selection of fairly priced clothes for all seasons, and their t-shirt offering is no different.
 
Available in lightweight, mid weight and heavyweight, there’s something for everyone and every outfit. The lightweight option is great for layering under a sweatshirt or overshirt, the mid weight great for the gym or lounging at home and the heavyweight for wearing by itself and for its hardwearing properties.
 
Prices range from twelve to twenty five pounds depending on the thickness, so none are too heavy on the pocket.