12 of the best v-neck t-shirts to refresh your capsule wardrobe

Finding the best v-neck t-shirts can be a challenge. 

With most fashion stores offering a basics section, there are thousands of different fits, colors, and fabrics that all promise to look great with your best jeans. But not all tees are created equal. The key is to find out which style you feel most comfortable in. Roomier around the chest area, v-necks are a particularly flattering fit for those with a fuller bust. They're also great if you want a less restrictive top. 

Whatever your preference, we have scoured the virtual rails to find the best v-neck t-shirts to add to your capsule wardrobe, plus advice on how to style the best v-neck t-shirts, according to a fashion expert. 

BEST V-NECK T-SHIRTS FOR WOMEN CHOSEN BY OUR FASHION EXPERT

If there's one store that we can rely on for excellent quality basics, it’s Cos. The older, cooler sister of H&M does minimalist styles better than any other shop on the high street. This v-neck t-shirt is no exception. A heavier fabric that is unlikely to lose shape, it is designed for an oversized fit, so size down if you’d like a slimmer style.  

• Browse all t-shirts at Cos  (opens in new tab)

It can be tempting to scrimp on quality with basics, but we promise the extra spend is worth it - in terms of longevity and in terms of elevating your look without being obvious. This Rag & Bone tee is a little pricey, but you will wear it time and time again. The standard fit means it’s super versatile, too. Want to wear it for evening? A tuxedo for women has become increasingly popular as party wear and wearing one with a t-shirt underneath gives a cool edge to an evening look.

• Browse all t-shirts at Rag & Bone (opens in new tab)

Our go-to brand for size-inclusive, sustainable style, Girlfriend Collective has done it again with its v-neck tee. The neckline is neither too high or too low, while the fabric is hypoallergenic, 100% biodegradable and can even regulate body temperature. Available in a rainbow of colors with a fab size range, we recommend stocking up on this design. 

• Browse all t-shirts at Girlfriend Collective (opens in new tab) 

 If you want to team your v-neck with wide-leg jeans or similarly shaped palazzo pants—one of the biggest fashion trends for 2022—then look for a fitted t-shirt to balance the volume of the bottoms. This slim-fit t-shirt streamlines your body and will look great tucked in.

• Browse all t-shirt at Tommy Hilfiger on Amazon (opens in new tab)

Few styles feel as nonchalant as a slouchy t-shirt. The loose fit gives that elusive 'well put together but not even trying' look and it’s comfortable to wear too. Team with slim jeans or try mixing textures with a satin midi skirt for a casual summer look.

• Browse all t-shirts at Gap (opens in new tab)

If you’re looking for a simple v-neck t-shirt that is stylish and functional, then this two-pack is a total bargain. These fuss-free tops come in classic white and black or gray and black sets, have a slim fit to streamline your top half and won’t break the bank. 

• Browse all t-shirts at H&M (opens in new tab)

As the weather warms up,  you might want to swap out your v-neck t-shirt for something more airy. Look no further than this perfect tank top. The wide straps allow you to wear your best bra without the straps being on show. The slouchy style creates the ultimate laidback look for looking cool in the heat.

• Browse all t-shirts at Madewell (opens in new tab)

Want to take your v-neck tee into the coldest months? This Banana Republic style is a hybrid of sweater and t-shirt and is a little longer in length so it falls to the hips for a flattering design. 

• Browse all t-shirts at Banana Republic (opens in new tab)

When it comes to ethically sourced materials and transparency, few brands come close to Everlane. The products are designed to last so this tee should be in your closet for the long haul. Super soft, it's made with 100% organic cotton that means healthier soil, cleaner water and safer workers. What’s not to love? 

• Browse all t-shirts at Everlane (opens in new tab)

There’s no fashion rulebook that says you have to keep your t-shirts plain. A striped style is timeless and is a great way of breaking up block colours or layering under jumpsuits.

• Browse all t-shirts at Levis (opens in new tab)

It can be tricky to find workout gear that is functional and flattering, but this Lululemon t-shirt fits the bill. The v-neck style is stretchy, weightless and super soft meaning it feels like a second skin. It is a little cropped and just kisses the top of your leggings. It's designed with yoga in mind, but we think it works for most workouts. Just add your best running trainers for exercise confidence.

• Browse all t-shirts at Lululemon (opens in new tab)

Loose v-neck t-shirts are ideal for when you have a bump and beyond. The neckline makes access easier for both breast pumps and babies. The style is also double layered, with concealed feeding slits under the top layer, making it ideal for nursing. 

• Browse all t-shirts at Asos (opens in new tab)

KEY T-SHIRT TRENDS FOR 2022

Think of v-neck t-shirts as a building block for a number of outfits and consider these trends when selecting your new t-shirt. 

• White t-shirts—classic and contemporary, you can’t go wrong with a quality white t-shirt. This spring, try teaming it with a natural linen suit for an outfit that looks super chic.
• Relaxed fits—loose designs skim over the body and create a laid-back feel that is as comfortable as it is stylish.
• Cotton fabric—breathable and soft on the skin, the cotton tee reigns supreme in warmer months. The v-neck shape has a preppy feel so try teaming with pleated skirts as seen on the Miu Miu catwalk.

HOW TO STYLE A V-NECK T-SHIRT

There are countless ways you can style a v-neck t-shirt. “While a v-neck tee looks great on all shapes and sizes, it’s a particularly useful design for those with a fuller bust”, says woman&home Fashion Director Paula Moore. 

“Giving the look of a casual, fuss-free t-shirt but with extra room in the chest area thanks to the cut-out ‘v’, the fabric is less likely to pull and stretch awkwardly.”

Choosing the right t-shirt for you means thinking about when you are likely to wear it. Is it a trend item? Purely for lounging around? Or are you after something plain to team with patterned pieces?

Think about the fabric, too. Some have a more rigid, boxy feel while others mold to the silhouette of your body.

Once you’ve found the one you love, we recommend buying two or three of the same style in different colorways so can be sure you have the ideal tee for any occasion. “I love mixing styles together and think a t-shirt under a blazer immediately gives you fashion credentials”, says Paula.  “A relaxed t-shirt tucked into wide-leg trousers or jeans also highlights your waist while keeping it casual.”