5 Fresh Ways To Style A Plain, White Tee

This article was last updated on April 16, 2022

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The plain, white T-shirt is literally the one item we’ve worn to the office, at brunch, out dancing, and to bed. It’s the perfect tabula rasa — the blank slate of fashion — on which to build, layer, and accessorize to your heart’s content. 

Not convinced? Starting with the basic tee, we’ve concocted five very different outfits that are so good, you’ll never buy a fancy, uncomfortable top again.

The Downtown — Your most basic closet essential plays well with your most statement-making. We love combining a leather vest, neon jewelry, and a seriously picturesque skirt into an ensemble perfect for your night out. Pair it all with thick-heeled, peep-toe booties and you’re set for when that gallery opening turns into an all-night dance party. 

Mural Faux Leather Vest, $78, available at Nordstrom;Nasty Gal Winslet Ankle Boot, $98, available at Nasty Gal; Everlane The Women’s V, $15, available at Everlane; Topshop Patchwork Paint Skirt, $80, available at Topshop; Shourouk Pixie Necklace, $938, available at Charm & Chain.

The White Party — Bring it on, Diddy! We’re sticking to the white-on-white outfit rules but blending all kinds of small (but powerful) add-ons for the ultimate getup that ensures us an invite to next year’s bash, too. 

nOir Chindarkar Thick Cord and Crystal Hoop Earrings, $275, available at nOir; Zara Neon Miniaudiere, $35.90, available at Zara; Sergio Rossi Flashy Sandal, $1,602.51, available at Farfetch; Tibi Sigrid Lace Skirt, $625, available at Tibi; Everlane The Women’s V, $15, available at Everlane; Essie Saturday Disco Fever, $8, available at Beauty.com.

The Weekender — Effortless white tees weremade for Saturdays and Sundays. And mixed with your favorite boyfriend jeans, a few practical and comfy accessories, and a standout jacket to throw over your shoulders, you’re totally prepared for whatever adventure this lazy day may bring. 

By Malene Birger Salisca Blazer, $565, available at Net-A-Porter; ASOS Leather Backpack with Tab Detail, $93.34, available at ASOS; AE Boy Jean, $49.95, available at AE; Everlane The Women’s V, $15, available at Everlane; Old Navy Crochet Sun Hat, $16.94, available at Old Navy; Report Silverton, $80, available at Piperlime.

The Office — By now, you’re already well aware that your white T-shirt is the hardest working item in your closet, so why not impress (or become) the boss, too. The touches of gold are classic and add just the right amount of shine, while a pair of gingham pants are summery but still office-appropriate. Of course, an amazing carryall is the (pink) cherry on top of this sartorial sundae.

Everlane The Women’s V, $15, available at Everlane; Miu Miu Tote, $1,395, available at Miu Miu; Uniqlo Women DIP Ankle Length Pants, $9.90, available at Uniqlo; Joie Linen Blazer, $248, available at Intermix; Chan Luu Tassel Coin Necklace, $43, available at OTTE; J.CrewEverly Mirror Metallic Pumps, $255, available at J.Crew.

The Beach Bum — We’ll be frank: When we’re at the beach, our sights are set on the ocean and that best seller we haven’t yet made creases in. This easy-to-pull-together look makes sure we’re equipped with the perfect oversized tote, ready to take some safe sunshine, and still look cute when we hit the boardwalk for an afternoon stroll. 

Suntegrity “5 in 1” Tinted Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen (BB Cream), $45, available at Beauty Sage;Everlane The Women’s V, $15, available at Everlane;Thom Dolan Liberty Print Lulu Shorts, $184, available at Madewell; Rebecca Minkoff Union, $220, available at Rebecca Minkoff; Mango Touch Two Tone Straw Tote Bag, $79.99, available at Mango; Ecote Cutout Huarache Sandal, $39, available at Urban Outfitters.

Market Research by Willow Lindley

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