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Saturday, January 29, 2011

Tip #48: STAPLE C - The White Shirt

Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor

Princess seaming and slightly ruched cuffs give this basic a touch of "pretty." A machine-washable blend of cotton, nylon and spandex and a wallet-friendly price make this an easy work-to-weekend staple. $69, anntaylor.com.

The elusive white shirt can impart sophistication and polish to everything from a suit to a pair of khaki's or jeans.
The classic white shirt is made of 100% cotton, with a collar that's neither oversized nor too small; not too pointy and not too wide-apart. The hem can be cut straight across, but a menswear-style shirttail hem, with a curved bottom and cutaway sides, is nice because it reduces bulk when tucked in and is visually slimming when worn out. No matter what your shape and size, the most flattering shirts are tailored with darts and seams to fit closer to the body. Boxy shirts tend to look frumpy.
From there, you can branch out to suit your taste and fit needs. If you're concerned about wrinkling, try a fabric with a small amount of stretch. If you love cuff links, opt for French cuffs. If you prefer a cleaner, minimalist look, consider a shirt in with the front buttons hidden under the placket.
Or you can choose a less traditional shirt, such as a wrap style that flatters the waist, one with gathering at the bust to can create the illusion of curves, or a body-conscious version with stretch. (If you choose a fancier style, the details become part of the focus of your outfit, so you'll want to make sure your accessories, such as scarves and jewelry, don't compete.)

Banana Republic






Banana Republic

No iron? No problem. This shirt, in a cotton/Lycra blend, resists wrinkles, making mornings easier. The company says the fabric is treated to avoid puckering at the seams, armholes and collar. Hidden buttons look sleek, and though blends don't always breathe as well as all-cotton fabrics do, they're often more opaque--a bonus for women who worry about overexposure. $59,bananarepublic.com.



Old Navy






Old Navy

At this price, you can buy Old Navy's fitted cotton shirt in multiples--if only to save trips to the laundry. A narrow placket creates a softer, more feminine neckline. $20, oldnavy.com








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