When magazines and fashion editors enthuse about the latest trends and must-have products such as fur-lined loafers, intricately embroidered coats and beautifully cut culottes, it's sometimes easy to forget the importance of a basic T-shirt. As the basis of pretty much every wardrobe, a good tee is the most versatile and crucial component of your sartorial repertoire, whether it's worn with jeans and trainers, under a sharp suit, a slip dress, or teamed with dungarees.
Yes, you could just buy an array of T-shirts from Primark for under a fiver, but you'll look and feel far better splashing out a little more on a quality tee that can last years and years. Finding The One is tricky as you need to factor in shape, fit and fabric, so we've trawled the rails for you and found the real deals.
Some of the most stylish outfits are the most simple and nothing beats a plain white tee. But if that's too boring, this number from Gucci is trimmed with metallic stripes and adorned with an embroidered ladybird.
Gucci white ladybird cotton T-shirt, £290, available at Harvey Nichols
Spending hundreds on a T-shirt might sound ludicrous when there are great quality alternatives on the high street. This COS tee is made from pure brushed cotton with a soft washed quality and subtle sheer finish. Wear under a suit with trainers for smart casual or with your favourite jeans for weekend wear.
American Apparel was once our go-to for all our basics. Thankfully we've given up on Disco Pants but we still fall back on the brand for the most flattering, comfy tees.
Last year it was all about the Bella Freud '1970' jumper and now we've set our eyes on this neon pink tee – the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe.
Grace Wales Bonner is the young designer on everyone's lips, captivating the fashion world with her exquisite tailoring, embroidery and beadwork, and gender fluid collections. She's bloody good at T-shirts too.
Wales Bonner George striped cotton T-shirt, £145, available at Matches Fashion
If you're a T-shirt aficionado then you've probably heard of Zoe Karssen. The Amsterdam-based fashion house do some of the best slogan and graphic tees on the market and this one is top of our list.
Zara, we love you.
If you can't quite afford Simone Rocha's sumptuous gowns, this gorgeous frilled tee is a good place to start.
Simone Rocha cotton T-Shirt with frilled hem, £130, available at Browns Fashion
Yes, £335 is a lo t to spend on a T-shirt but when it's one as soft and well-fitting as this, it makes sense. Well to us, anyway.
Saint Laurent silk-jersey T-shirt, £335, available at Net-a-Porter
This classic Comme T-shirt has cult status.
Comme des Garcons Play gold heart T-shirt, £59, available at Dover Street Market
For less than a tenner, these tees are remarkably comfortable. Get one in every colour; they'll become your second skin.
Chinti and Parker is adored for its fun take on premium wardrobe staples. This soft cotton-jersey Breton T-shirt has a contrasting baby-pink pocket, complete with pretty ruffled trim and is perfect paired with denim.
Chinti and Parker striped cotton-jersey T-shirt, £75, available at Net-a-Porter
When a plain white tee won't do, up your chic levels with a metallic top like this one from Zara.
Anti-fur supporter Stella McCartney is a keen lover of animals and shares the love with this cute cat tee.
Stella McCartney black cat-print cotton T-shirt, £150, available at Harvey Nichols
Don't be afraid of stripes, especially when they're on a Current/Elliott tee as they make the most flattering T-shirts around.
Current/Elliott petit striped jersey T-shirt, £120, available at Harvey Nichols
You've probably seen this T-shirt all over Instagram as our favourite social media stars can't get enough of Ganni. We're big fans of their Space Cowboy tee too!
Ganni Murphy printed cotton T-shirt, £45, available at My Theresa
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