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Finding the best wardrobe essentials can be a lengthy process. Whether it’s a pair of straight-leg jeans that hug each curve just right, a comfortable and versatile button-up shirt, or a little white dress suitable for both the office and after-hours events, the search often takes time. Among these staples, the quest for the perfect T-shirt is one that every fashion enthusiast undertakes. It needs to meet all the criteria, starting with the right shape, neckline, and fabric. Arguably one of the best places to find said must-haves is UNIQLO—the Japanese retailer is an editor go-to for well-made basics at thoughtful price points.
A sartorial white whale for many, a go-to T-shirt is an essential part of almost any wardrobe, regardless of changing trends, personal style shifts, and color preferences. For many Vogue staffers a classic plain style, be it in white, grey, or black, serves as a universal layering piece under sweaters, blazers, and trench coats. It can also make a proclamation, featuring bold stripes, a favorite sports team, or a tribute to a hometown hero. The best T-shirts, whether a relaxed crewneck or subtly cropped, can be paired with almost anything, from low-rise jeans to silky skirts. Below, 3 Vogue editors share what they look for in a T-shirt and how they came to find the perfect fit for them at UNIQLO.
Mai Morsch, fashion editor
“My colleagues joke that I am the queen of basics—and it’s true, I am almost always in jeans and a tee. While my outfit formulas are simple, I put a lot of thought into fit and fabric, and I can confidently say that UNIQLO’S pieces are timeless, well-made, and genuinely chic. My style philosophy is always that once you have a solid base wardrobe, it’s easy to build out your personal style with one-of-a-kind, vintage, or trend-forward pieces.
I love how this T-shirt from the UNIQLO U Collection echoes the effortless vibe of a classic baby tee. It hits just at the waist, making it super versatile—pair it with a low-rise pair of jeans for a laid-back weekend look, or tuck it into high-rise trousers for something more polished. The fabric is soft but structured, holding its shape without wrinkling, and the cap sleeve adds a flattering touch. With many colors to choose from, it’s a fantastic staple to stock up on.
I leaned into the ’90s feel of this UNIQLO U tee by layering a ribbed tank underneath, which adds just the right amount of texture and dimension. I also chose to wear it with dark-wash jeans from the UNIQLO x JW Anderson collab, which have quickly become a go-to thanks to their classic straight-leg cut and slightly rigid feel. The whole look feels simple but considered. I styled it with a heeled sandal, but honestly, it’s the kind of outfit I could wear with any shoe, in any season.”
Leah Faye Cooper, digital style director
“I prefer tees to button-downs and knits, so I own a lot of them. I’m partial to cropped tees, and love that this one falls into that category, but doesn’t expose the midriff when worn with a high-waisted skirt or pair of trousers. (If I’m open to showing a bit more skin, I’d wear it with a skirt that fits lower on the hips.) The cotton is perfect—stretchy with a nice heft to it, and incredibly soft and comfortable. These have enough structure to work for the office, but are perfect for a laid-back weekend look, too. I styled my white tee with a silk midi skirt and denim jacket, draped over my shoulders—a look I turn to often when I want to dress casual but feel put together.”
Irene Kim, production and editorial associate
“Finding the perfect simple tee is harder than you think. But UNIQLO makes it so easy for you, especially with their U collection designed by Christophe Lemaire and Sarah Linh Tran. First of all, you can get it for less than $20—a rarity I find these days—and it’s made of a thick and heavyweight cotton so that your bra doesn’t show through, which I find to be my biggest struggle when wearing T-shirts.
The fit is also one of the best I’ve found, and I own many tees with prices ranging from $20 to even $150. UNIQLO has perfected the everyday fit for the everyday woman, and their UNIQLO U Collection T-shirt sits perfectly when you wear a mid-rise jean (my ideal rise these days). For those who are still on the high-rise jean wave, it’s great to tuck in your pants, and I would suggest styling it with a skinny belt; even if your outfit is just a T-shirt, jeans, and belt, you can go straight into the office (even the Vogue offices) and know that you look put together.
Fashion editors may tell you that the cigarette and skinny fit pants are on their way back, but I’m afraid that I will never go back to skinny jeans! My favorite way to wear a T-shirt is with a baggy fit and the wide straight-leg jeans from UNIQLO. It’s the perfect silhouette for my 5’7” frame (although UNIQLO does offer free alterations should you need your pants hemmed).
I will always love a Canadian Tuxedo, and pairing my loose jeans with a loose jacket, like the zip-up blouson jacket, makes my simple outfit look cool without even trying. I would suggest styling it with some edgy ballet flats or maybe even a cool boot for those colder days.”
