The Plain White T-Shirt – Simple And Invaluable
June 11, 2015
By Brian Maynor
The plain white t-shirt is summer’s unsung hero of style.
Think about it. Everyone has at least one white t-shirt in their closet, and most of us have many more. Whether you wear them daily as a base layer, or as a stand-alone piece we rarely think of them as the star of our outfit, but they can definitely make or break it.
Finding the right white t-shirt can be a process, but like the perfect pair of jeans or a bathing suit the payoff is well worth it. Here are a few tips on rocking the classic white t-shirt all summer:
1. Thicker cotton. The classic option, these t-shirts are substantial and work great layered under other tops, but they aren’t the best on their own. During the warmer weather of summer, try wearing them under a mesh coat. The play on texture is fun and exciting, while letting air circulate to keep you cool.
2. Jersey. A weekend must. These are the shirts you just want to live-in. They are soft, comfortable and just float around you. Whether you pair them with jeans or shorts, you can’t go wrong lounging around the house or running errands in one of these. However, because you’re going to love them so much, I recommend buying them in multiples.
3. Stretch. When you want a t-shirt that is fitted look for ones that have some stretch to them. These are perfect under blazers because they add very little bulk, but I tend to avoid blended fabrics during the summer because they are less breathable. If you’re going to be in a climate-controlled environment however, you should be fine.
4. Linen. This fabric offers a stepped-up version of a basic top and works perfectly for those times when you need to pull off a more polished look. Paired with a pencil skirt or colored pants, this option works best when it’s slightly oversized. You want to have a little drape and movement to add some drama to your outfit.
5. Silk. If there were a dressy version of a t-shirt this would be it. Ideal for pulling off an incredibly stylish all-white outfit, this shirt can pull off the most attention and scrutiny. If you keep the quality of the t-shirt high you won’t need many accessories to complement this look.
It wouldn’t be summer without a white t-shirt. Fortunately your outfit doesn’t have to be simple just because this classic piece is.
I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyborads at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.
Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
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