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The white shirt has a special place in fashion not just because it’s such a classic item of apparel that men have worn for decades but also because, for a long time, it represented the social status of its wearer. Fortunately, that divide by way of shirt color is now gone, and everyone can reap the benefits of its undeniable elegance.
When you have such a flattering and popular item of clothing, it’s easy to see why even high-end designers will want to put their stamp on it. And while a hundred years ago, it was uncommon to wear a white shirt at an informal event, today it has become a staple in men’s weekend attire just as it is omnipresent in their weekday outfits.
Related: Why the Classic Men's Blue Blazer Will Never Go Out of Style
Here, we rounded up the chicest updates of this iconic piece of clothing that you can add to your closet.
Jacquemus Simon Button-down Collar Striped Cotton Shirt
Simon Porte Jacquemus’ design aesthetic is inspired by the laid back, yet stylish dress code of the French Riviera. This cotton shirt has a relaxed silhouette, side slits, and features delicate light blue stripes.
To buy: $260, mrporter.com
Loro Piana Slub Linen Shirt
You may not think of linen shirts as office-appropriate but this one by Loro Piana is elegant enough to be worn in the office thanks to its classic silhouette.
To buy: $515, mrporter.com
Oliver Spencer Grandad-collar Bib-front Organic Cotton Shirt
Inspired by formal tuxedo shirts, this casual piece features a textured seersucker bib at the front and a classic band collar.
To buy: $240, mrporter.com
Eton Contemporary Fit Twill Shirt with Blue Buttons
Sometimes all it takes are a few blue buttons to freshen up a classic and this is exactly what Eton has done here.
To buy: $245, neimanmarcus.com
Canali White Cutaway-collar Checked Cotton-Jacquard Shirt
Canali proves that craftsmanship truly lies in the details. The cutaway collar, the subtle micro checks woven into the cotton-jacquard fabric, and the contrasting trims set this shirt apart.
To buy: $315; mrporter.com
Hugo Boss White Ivan Slim-fit Piped Cotton-poplin Tuxedo Shirt
The black piping along the front and cuffs makes this slim-fit shirt a winner in our book.
To buy: $150, mrporter.com
Theory Irving Printed Cotton Shirt
You could easily pair this shirt with jeans and wear it untucked, or you could don a suit with it because it’s just that versatile. The bar motif printed all over it, oozes a fun and casual vibe, while the classic button-down design still says you mean business.
To buy: $195, mrporter.com
The Kooples White Cotton Shirt with Thin Stripes and Short Collar
Add a bit of that famous French je ne sais quoi to your outfits with this striped cotton shirt with a short collar by The Kooples, a favorite brand of cool kids in the City of Lights.
To buy: $198, thekooples.com
ALLSAINTS Redondo Half Sleeve Slim Fit Button-down Shirt
When days get warmer a short-sleeved shirt is a must-have. This one has a slim fit silhouette and half sleeves with cuffs that close with buttons.
To buy: $100, bloomingdales.com
Givenchy White Denim Shirt
Inspired by another classic, this white shirt is the best of two worlds—it has the cool vibe of denim and the casual elegance of a button-down silhouette.
To buy: $780, nordstrom.com