Crisp white shirts are one of the most versatile fashion numbers of all time. There is a melange of styles and nomenclatures when it comes to shirts. Button-down, for example, is held down with buttons on two ends of the collars while a button-up is typically dressier. Long-sleeved or short, they are proven to have endless possibilities.
Tucked and well-pressed, a dress shirt worn underneath a fitted blazer showcases your professionalism—think LinkedIn headshot. Alternatively, a linen shirt undone over your bathing suit is the ultimate OOO sign-off for a day out to the beach.
Celebrities and fashion icons like Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Alexa Chung, Zendaya have long been fans of shirts—dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The Challengers lead star even stunned the Academy Awards 2022 red carpet in a cropped shirt from Valentino Haute Couture. Bella, too, graced Orabella’s launch in all-white, wearing Danielle Guizio’s short-sleeved panelled shirt.
Corporate fashion, later reincarnated as the “office siren”, has also escalated the likes of white shirts in #fashiontok. The office siren style approaches corporate looks with a Y2K spin, think noughties Calvin Klein or the all-time favourite fashion movie, The Devil Wears Prada.
There has never been a season without a white shirt appearance on the runways. They are either peeping through Miu Miu’s nerdy preppiness or the canvas for Dior to string out its timeless elegance. A white shirt from up-and-coming designers like Mark Gong is a medium to accentuate the label’s unmatched edginess. Meanwhile, for Sandy Liang, it’s a breath of romantic air that transcends throughout her designs.
The options are overwhelming—from styles to materials—it’s a white shirt galore out there! Our verdict is to look to our local fashion brands and designers. Ultimately, the goal is to find a piece that will last. One that lives through trends and the weather—and who else would know our weather better than our local talents?
Petit Moi
It’s not easy to pick one favourite from all the creations from Petit Moi. The Sierra shirt caught our attention with its gorgeous embroidered lapel that would turn heads. Layering it underneath a vest or a cardigan too would work wonders if the temperature drops.
RM239 | Buy Here
Kit Woo
Kit Woo is no stranger to the local designer scene, gaining a loyal following from fashion wearers who are experimental with their sartorial choices. This deconstructed shirt, for example, features a twisted placket, making it a statement piece that adds edge to a look.
RM520 | Buy Here
Tangsi Tujuh
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With designs that celebrate the Nusantara lifestyle, Tangsi Tujuh is a go-to for those who are looking for traditional wear with a contemporary twist. From afar, this top might seem like your usual kebaya top, but the beauty is in the detail. The zig-zag placket, for example, is a subtle yet playful way to spice up your daily look.
RM330 | Buy Here
Shaofen
Forget about the pressed, prim and proper white shirt. This creased top from Shaofen is the ultimate fashion faux for those who live out of a suitcase, or to add more depth to your look.
RM395 | Buy Here
WES Studio
A perfect addition to our tropical wardrobe, the Asa top from WES studio features a pair of wide sleeves that we have grown very fond of, especially for wearers with a smaller frame. Its curved and slightly cropped hem too, makes it an ideal piece for those who loathe tucking in.
RM179 | Buy Here
Nelissa Hilman
For that occasion where it’s too formal for t-shirts but too casual for a long-sleeved button-down, this top from Nelissa Hilman is a godsend. While the drop-shoulder design creates a laidback silhouette, the matte silver flathead buttons add a hint of toughness to the garment.
RM250 | Buy Here
Whimsigirl
The contrast between the voluminous puffed sleeves and the gathered bust catches our eyes immediately. This Whimsigirl number can be easily dressed up or down for various settings, making it a versatile piece to own.
RM188 | Buy Here
Neucvr
Blending modern wear and traditional styles is not a novelty. This Kareem shirt from Neucvr blends minimal fashion with Baju Melayu seamlessly, making it a no-nonsense wardrobe staple that would complement harmoniously with any pairing.
RM99 | Buy Here