The Henley Has Been My Must-Have Wardrobe Staple For Years

POPSUGAR Photography | Nneya Richards
POPSUGAR Photography | Nneya Richards
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Like many of our classic styles today (think workwear denim or Chanel's Breton stripes) even cardigans and henley shirts have humble beginnings that are spun chic. Henley shirts were named after the English town of Henley-on-Thames; they were the traditional uniforms of rowers in the English town in the early 1800s. Functional and sporty! That's what probably got the attention of designer Ralph Lauren as he brought the previously worn underwear to American wardrobes in the the 1970s.

I've always loved a henley — its open neck shows just enough skin. I've collected the style over the years in everything from tissue-thin cotton to silk and cashmere. One of my go-to stores for the henley has been Gap, with my mom stocking up on henley shirts for me — for both bedtime and when I'm out and about — year after year. Stripes, slouchies, ribbed, and fitted are all available. I always welcome another Gap henley in my wardrobe. I recently wore them with my favorite new pair of Gap jeans. I wear them everywhere from doing construction in the house to writing this article. With a great sale happening at Gap, you can get up to 75 percent off with the code BIGSALE. Here are a few of my selections.

Gap Ribbed Henley Pocket Sweater
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Gap Ribbed Henley Pocket Sweater

This Gap Ribbed Henley Pocket Sweater ($40, originally $50) is the one I opted for this season. I'm wearing it right now. Super comfortable, and I love the polished ribbed style and tortoise buttons that gift a collegiate prep effect. Perfect with a great pair of classic denim.

Gap Ribbed Henley Pocket Sweater
gap.com

Gap Ribbed Henley Pocket Sweater

I'm currently eyeing this striped Gap Ribbed Henley Pocket Sweater ($40, originally $50)! A stripe brings it even more to it's regatta origins!

Gap Marled Henley T-Shirt
gap.com

Gap Marled Henley T-Shirt

Grab this boyfriend style Gap Marled Henley T-Shirt ($33, originally $45) as a gift for both of you!

Gap Henley Bodysuit
gap.com

Gap Henley Bodysuit

Sometimes a bodysuit gives a great streamlined, tucked-in fit like this Gap Henley Bodysuit ($35-$40). Pair with jeans or a great midi skirt and booties.

Gap Stripe PJ Set
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Gap Stripe PJ Set

I know this is a Gap Stripe PJ Set ($51, originally $60)! But one of my favorite henley options was from GapBody's line — it's so cool I can wear it to bed or while running errands. I love the red stripes on this, and as it's on supersale now with extra discounts, it's a great time to buy!

Gap Ribbed Drop Needle Henley Shirt
gap.com

Gap Ribbed Drop Needle Henley Shirt

This Gap Ribbed Drop Needle Henley Shirt ($28, originally $30) is the timeless, soft, delicate henley that looks great with everything.

Gap Softspun Henley Top
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Gap Softspun Henley Top

Slightly cropped, this Gap Softspun Henley Top ($32, originally $45) is perfect for a relaxed look and if you have a shorter torso. Wear it to sleep or tucked into your favorite high-waisted jeans!

Gap Pointelle Button-Front Top
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Gap Pointelle Button-Front Top

Not sure if this Gap Pointelle Button-Front Top ($42, originally $45) counts as a henley, but it's pretty close! The pointelle effect trim is a delicate feminine effect that I love paired with something a bit edgy, like a leather skirt!

Gap Ribbed Drop Needle Henley T-Shirt
gap.com

Gap Ribbed Drop Needle Henley T-Shirt

Lightweight and with a lower neck, this Gap Ribbed Drop Needle Henley T-Shirt ($28, originally $30) is a top pick at Gap, and it's easy to see why. People pair it with everything from pjs to jeans and sweatpants. It also comes in a great selection of colors to choose from!

Gap Sleeveless Ribbed Henley Top
gap.com

Gap Sleeveless Ribbed Henley Top

I love the option of this Gap Sleeveless Ribbed Henley Top ($13-$20) for warmer nights and the summer. This looks great with a button-down, denim, A-line skirt for a '70s look!

Gap Softest One-Piece
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Gap Softest One-Piece

This Gap Softest One-Piece ($51, originally $60) is technically in the henley family and is a must have for lounging around the house!