If you're trying to shop less, but spend more on quality pieces, then allow me to introduce you to the secret weapon in my own wardrobe: a well-cut shirt.
A year-round capsule wardrobe staple, whether you’re looking for linen, stripes, denim or plaid, With Nothing Underneath is the name that does it all. I already have four WNU styles, and when wondering what to wear on Christmas Day, it seemed clear to me that the brand's comfortable yet festive shirt in green and blue plaid had my name written all over it.
Made with 20% merino wool, I just added this to my winter capsule wardrobe, and like the reviews, I can't speak highly enough of it. One customer called it "a hug in a shirt", while another said "Beautiful shirt , I love the wool content and find it incredibly comfortable to wear."
It’s little wonder Meghan Markle is a fan of the label, which we’re adding to our list of the best British clothing brands.
Founded in 2017, WNU cites Carolyn Bessette, Jane Birkin and Charlotte Rampling as their style icons, but modern day wearers include Sam Taylor-Johnson, Claire Foy, Dolly Alderton, Suranne Jones, Josie Gibson and Ella Mills (AKA Deliciously Ella).
Founder Pip Durell is a former Vogue stylist and Tatler Editor, so it’s safe to say she knows her stuff. On the site she’s quoted as saying ‘it really just started with one shirt and went from there… I guess I thought that if I wanted this wardrobe staple then others might too.’
My top tip for travelling has got to be this shirt. Perfect if you're wondering what to pack in hand luggage, frankly I can't see why you'd need much else for a beach holiday! The lapis lazuli hue is very flattering for all skin tones as well.
The best denim shirt you'll ever own, this versatile style is made from a midweight fabric which means it moves beautifully and it's got a relaxed fit. One reviewer wrote 'the quality is so much better than any other denim shirt I have had before'. It's available in white or indigo too.
Stripes are always a good idea, and reading between the lines, you'll find yourself reaching for this shirt all the time. Sling a sweatshirt around your shoulders, and add jeans and knee high boots for a Quiet Luxury look.
With prices ranging from £95 for a plain white poplin shirt to £230 for the bestselling silk styles, it might be a bit more than you’d normally spend, but it’s an investment that will definitely go far.
The quality is impressive, and they wash really well too. The blue and white striped poplin shirt is my office uniform, and the blue denim shirt has received lots of compliments at weekends.
The seriously impressive thing about WNU is that they’ve taken a really simple concept and absolutely perfected it. There are monogramming options to add a personal touch, and there’s even a clever ‘find your shirt quiz’ if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the choice.
The shirts are available in UK sizes 6 to 18, and the sarongs, palazzo pants and caps are well worth checking out too.
How sleek are these high-waisted, wide-leg trousers? They're inspired by masculine tailoring, and are 100% wool, so well worth the investment. Team them with a t-shirt for a smart casual dress code, or with a camisole and heels if you're after Christmas party outfits.
WNU's white shirts are available in Boyfriend, Classic, Weekend or Molly cuts so you can find your ideal fit. It doesn't get better than a white shirt, blue jeans and heels.
Want to try buying into this brand before you splash the cash on a shirt? We've spotted these caps popping up all over Instagram. Available in khaki or washed navy, it will fast become your off-duty day favourite.
What is a Boyfriend shirt?
Boyfriend shirts take notes from traditional menswear - as WNU calls it 'inspired by men’s tailoring and adjusted for women'. Button-down, boxy and oversized, they are loved by celebrities such as Victoria Beckham, Meghan Markle and Katie Holmes. The baggier the fit, the better, since the idea is to look like you've found it in your boyfriend's wardrobe. They work particularly well with blue denim and sharp tailoring.
