From Marie Antoinette to Modern Icons, a Timeless Wardrobe Essential

the plain white shirt.

This week's release of the documentary poster showcases Beckham in a white shirt, paired with a diamond tennis bracelet. This trend extends to other prominent figures, including the Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Sussex, and Taylor Swift, all of whom have recently been seen in white shirts. Even fashion icon Sarah Jessica Parker has embraced the style.

The popularity of the white shirt has led to a surge in sales. British brand With Nothing Underneath has seen significant growth, while John Lewis and other retailers have also experienced increased demand. The white shirt has re-emerged as a key piece in the modern wardrobe, particularly in an oversized style, often worn without a jacket.

According to Naomi Pike, commissioning editor of Elle, the white shirt represents a return to a sense of normalcy. It's a versatile garment that can be adapted to various contexts. Whether promoting a new project or simply making a statement, the white shirt offers an effortless way to convey a sense of readiness and sophistication.

Beckham, who frequently incorporates white shirts into her personal style and fashion collections, understands the subtle power of this garment. Pike describes it as workwear that subtly commands attention. The white shirt's adaptability allows for diverse styling, from a formal look with a jacket to a more relaxed feel when worn on its own.

The white shirt's strength lies in its simplicity. It's a garment that allows the wearer to make a statement without being overly ostentatious. While men wearing white shirts can sometimes appear as if they've been dressed by others, women can use the garment to express their individuality.

The white shirt's history is intertwined with the evolution of women in the workforce. It gained prominence in the early 20th century as women sought comfortable yet professional attire. Icons like Coco Chanel, Audrey Hepburn, and Diane Keaton further popularized the style.

The white shirt's origins can be traced back to the 18th century, with Marie Antoinette's iconic portrait featuring a white chemise dress. This neoclassical style, characterized by its simplicity and loose fit, was considered a form of early power dressing.

The chemise, a reaction to more formal attire, was also seen as seductive. The portrait's simplicity and the use of muslin, a non-French fabric, caused controversy.

Victoria Beckham's success, like Marie Antoinette's influence, is built on creating a desired aesthetic. The white shirt, like a coveted luxury item, has become a symbol of style and aspiration.