In continuation of my Build Your Basics series (where I go over the major categories of things to have in your closet and do a dive into my favorite styles in each category), we’re talking tees and shirts!
If you missed it, you can read up on Bags and Jeans!
My “Must-Have” Styles
1. V-Neck Tee
I’ve always been more partial to a v-neck over a crewneck. I find them to be very flattering, once you find the right one for you. They can vary pretty greatly in how to deep the v is, so you may have to do a little trial and error. I like that you get a perfect “frame” for wearing necklaces, too!
My Favorites:
Madewell Whisper Cotton V-Neck Pocket Tee and Free People Kaylen V-Neck T-Shirt
Other Options:
2. V-Neck Rounded Hem Tee/Tunic
I love a tunic-length tee for layering and wearing with leggings. If I’m wearing leggings as pants, you better believe the booty is covered! Having a tunic-length shirt like this is also great for layering under sweaters, jackets, and more. It creates a casual layered look that I like!
My Favorites:
Z Supply Jersey Pocket Tee and BP. Sleepy Lounge Tee
Other Options:
3. Relaxed Crewneck Tee
While I prefer a v-neck, I do think that there is room for crewnecks, too! I prefer a crewneck without anything on top of it, like in the spring and summer. The perk they have over v-necks is that you don’t have to worry at all about bending over or how deep the neckline is – it’s a “put it on and forget it” type of shirt.
My Favorite:
Madewell Whisper Cotton Rib Crewneck Tee
Other Options:
4. Fitted Crewneck Tee
If I’m wearing a crewneck, I prefer a fitted one. Since they offer a lot of coverage, I think keeping it close-fitting allows for it to serve as more of a base layer than anything else. A fitted crewneck works well when layering with a jacket or shirt, or to balance out wide-leg or relaxed-fit bottoms!
My Favorite:
Other Options:
5. Crewneck Rounded Hem Tunic
Just like the v-neck tunic length, I wear a crewneck tunic tee, too! These are great for leggings and layering.
My Favorite:
Daily Ritual Jersey Crewneck Tunic
Other Options:
6. Distressed and/or Oversized Boyfriend Tee
I loved these casual, oversized tees for pregnancy and postpartum, but still wear them now! They’re a nice option to just throw on for lounging around the house or doing projects in.
My Favorites:
Aerie Distressed Oversized Boyfriend T-Shirt and Madewell Raw-Edged Hangout Tee
Other Options:
7. Graphic Tee
I’ll always love a graphic tee! They instantly add a “cool” factor to an outfit with minimal effort.
My Favorites:
Old Navy Good Vibes Graphic Tee (similar linked), Dress Up Desert Wander Tee (similar linked), and Madewell Graphic Softfade Tee (similar linked)
Other Options:
8. “Muscle” Tee
This is more of a trendy style and may not work for everyone, but I’m liking it right now! I really like wearing them in athleisure outfits to add a bit of structure, or pairing them with jeans and a heeled shoe for a date night look!
My Favorites:
Target Short Sleeve Tee and Another Similar Target Muscle Tee (no longer sold)
Other Options:
9. Henley
I love a henley-style shirt. I think they’re nice because they add a little interest with the buttons, but are as easy to style as a regular tee.
My Favorites:
Aerie Offline Henley and Tommy John Lounge Henley Tee
Other Options:
