Every wardrobe needs a few cult classics, and there’s none more versatile than the perfect white shirt. Crisp and cotton or soft and silk, here’s how to style the perennial white shirt for every occasion – take note. 

Banish those ‘nothing to wear moments’ and master your workwear wardrobe with a fitted white shirt. Perfectly paired with a tailored black trouser or pencil skirt, wear it tucked in but leave the first couple of buttons undone for a less corporate look. Earn style points by nipping it in at the waist with a belt and complete the look with a checked blazer – roll your cuffs up over your sleeves for a touch of nonchalant cool. Add a pair of pointed kitten heels or courts and you’re ready to start your commute in style!

To elevate the white shirt for evening, there’s nothing chicer than white on white. Dinner date? Choose a silk white shirt with a soft collar for a romantic take on the classic style. Pair it with a pleated white silk skirt or cropped frayed white jean to lend edge, then add a bold and bright shoe to bring an eye-catching pop of colour. Want to mix it up? With a tailored shirt, do up only the top two buttons then flip it around so that the buttons run down the back, creating an open silhouette and minimal front.

For off-duty, you can’t beat the iconic pairing of great-fitting denim and a sleek white shirt. Opt for loose silhouettes and relaxed fabrics for a casual vibe – roll up your cuffs, and let a few buttons remain undone. Layering is also a great way to create multiple looks that work from brunch with the girls to shopping in the city. Whether you throw it over a classic Breton tee or knot it at the waist with a cami underneath, the white shirt will lend a dose of French girl cool to your weekend line-up.