Unisex T-Shirt Styling: A Guide For All

Unisex T-shirts are often designed with men's bodies in mind, with a rounded neckline, broad shoulders, and large armholes. The short sleeves are also longer than those on women's T-shirts, making them ill-fitting for most women.

However, this doesn't mean that women can't wear unisex T-shirts. They absolutely can, and many do. But because they are designed for a typically male body shape, they tend to hang strangely on women, with the sleeves and hem being too long, and the waist too loose.

If you're a woman and you want to wear a unisex T-shirt, you could consider buying a smaller size or having it tailored to fit your body.

How to style a unisex T-shirt for a casual look

A unisex T-shirt is a great addition to your wardrobe, offering comfort and versatility. Here are some tips on how to style a unisex T-shirt for a casual look:

Choose the Right Fit

The fit of your T-shirt is crucial. It should conform to your body shape without being too tight or restrictive. The shoulder seams should align with the ends of your shoulders, and the sleeves should cover about 1/3 of your biceps, lightly hugging them. The T-shirt should also drape over your chest and follow the curve of your torso, and its length should reach a couple of inches below your belt line.

Know Your Necklines

Unisex T-shirts typically feature a rounded, close-fitting neckline. If you want to change it up, you can opt for V-necks, scoop necks, or square necks, which are more commonly found in women's T-shirts.

Layer Up

Layering is a great way to create a casual look with your T-shirt. Try pairing it with a plaid shirt, a blazer, or a bustier top. You can also layer your T-shirt under a dress or with a button-down shirt on top.

Pair with Bottoms

A T-shirt and jeans is a classic, casual combination. For a more relaxed look, pair your T-shirt with joggers or linen shorts. Chinos are also a great option, and if you're feeling adventurous, try a cool-toned check-print pant.

Footwear

Complete your casual look with a pair of sneakers or leather boat shoes. If you're going for a more rugged vibe, opt for leather work boots.

Accessories

Add a vest or a sports jacket to your T-shirt and jeans combination for a more mature or rugged look.

Colours and Prints

When it comes to colours, stick to neutral tones like grey, white, navy, and black, which will complement most complexions and outfit combinations. If you want to add a bit of interest, try a cool-toned check print or a statement graphic tee, but remember to keep it casual and avoid anything too flashy or distracting.

With these tips, you'll be able to style your unisex T-shirt in a variety of casual ways!

How to style a unisex T-shirt for a formal look

A unisex T-shirt can be styled in a variety of ways to create a formal look. Here are some tips to achieve a polished and sophisticated outfit:

Choose the Right Fabric and Colour:

Select a high-quality cotton or silk T-shirt in a solid colour or subtle pattern. Avoid T-shirts with graphics or slogans, as they can appear too casual for formal occasions.

Pair with Dressy Bottoms:

Balance the casualness of the T-shirt with more formal pieces on the bottom. Opt for a midi skirt or tailored pants in neutral colours like black, navy, or grey. This will create an elegant and put-together look.

Layer with a Blazer or Cardigan:

Layering is a simple way to dress up your T-shirt. For a more polished look, choose a tailored blazer in a complementary colour. If you prefer a relaxed vibe, go for a cosy cardigan in neutral tones like beige or grey.

Accessorise with Jewellery:

Elevate your T-shirt by adding simple and elegant jewellery. Opt for pieces like a pair of pearl earrings or a delicate necklace. Avoid statement jewellery, as it can detract from the overall sophistication of your outfit.

Wear Dressy Shoes:

Complete your formal look with classic pumps in neutral colours. If you want to keep it more casual, you can also wear dressy flats or loafers. Sneakers or sandals may be too informal for the look you're trying to achieve.

Tuck in Your T-shirt:

Tucking in your T-shirt can give a more polished feel to your outfit, and it's a great way to showcase your waistline. You can go for a full tuck, half-tuck, or French tuck into the waistband of your pants or skirt.

Add a Dressy Outerwear Piece:

Consider adding a dressy outerwear piece like a wool coat or a trench coat over your T-shirt to make it more formal.

Create a Monochromatic Look:

A monochromatic outfit instantly makes your ensemble look more sophisticated. Choose a T-shirt, pants or skirt, and blazer in the same colour family for a cohesive and stylish appearance.

Opt for a Statement Skirt:

If you want to make a bolder statement, pair your T-shirt with a metallic or sequined skirt to add some sparkle, or go for a bold print to add personality to your look.

Accessorise with a Scarf:

Adding a silk or satin scarf in a complementary colour to your T-shirt can also elevate your outfit. Tie it loosely around your neck for a touch of elegance.

How to tuck in a unisex T-shirt

Tucking in a T-shirt can be a great way to change up your style and add a little sophistication to your look. Here are some tips on how to tuck in a unisex T-shirt:

Preparation: Choosing the Right T-Shirt

First, you need to choose the right T-shirt. Go for a T-shirt that is one size larger than your usual size for a cool, boxy look. Make sure the T-shirt is not too slim-fitting, and opt for a round neckline. The length of the T-shirt is also important—if it's too short, it will easily slip out of your trousers. So, go for a T-shirt that hits around the mid-hip level.

Trousers

The type of trousers you wear with a tucked-in T-shirt can make a big difference. Choose trousers with a mid-rise waist to prevent the T-shirt from slipping out. Low-waist trousers might cause the T-shirt to come untucked. If you're feeling experimental, you can try high-waisted trousers for a gender-bending look. This style has been popularized by artists like Harry Styles, breaking stereotypes and creating a real curiosity among fashion enthusiasts.

Two Common Methods for Tucking in a T-Shirt

The Folding Method

Put on your trousers and T-shirt. Grab the bottom part of the T-shirt and fold it upwards about twice the width of a finger. You may need to fold it a few more times, depending on the height of your waistband. Once you've found the right length, open the zip of your trousers slightly or tuck the T-shirt into the trousers all the way around. Check the back with a mirror to ensure the T-shirt is not sticking out.

The 'Plucking' Method

Put on the T-shirt first, followed by the trousers, leaving them unfastened. Pull the trousers up and over the T-shirt, and tuck the T-shirt evenly into the trousers. This will create a tight-fitting look. To loosen it up, raise your arms over your head to pull the T-shirt out a little. Smooth everything around your upper body, and you're done!

Additional Tips

• Keep it simple by opting for T-shirts without prominent patterns, text, or busy designs. Go for simple stripes or solid colors.
• Tucking in your T-shirt works best if you have a fit physique. If you have a paunch, you might want to avoid this style as it will accentuate it.
• Layer your tucked-in T-shirt with a jacket, such as a cotton field jacket, jean jacket, chore coat, or unstructured blazer.
• Accessorize with a cool belt to accentuate your waist and add visual interest to your look.

How to roll up the sleeves of a unisex T-shirt

There are several ways to roll up the sleeves of a unisex T-shirt, and the method you choose will depend on the fabric of the T-shirt, the length of the sleeves, and the look you are going for. Here are some of the most popular methods:

The Casual Forearm Roll

This is a casual and easy way to roll up your T-shirt sleeves while avoiding any wrinkles. First, unbutton the cuff on your T-shirt and flip it back, as well as inside out. Next, fold it over once, making the cuff hide behind the fabric. Finish off the look by tucking in the corners of the cuff.

The Master Roll/The Master Sleeve Roll

For a more stylish look, try the Master Roll. Start by unbuttoning the cuff and any other buttons on the sleeve. Flip the cuff back and inside out, and pull the flipped cuff up to just below your elbow without folding it. Finally, fold the bottom of the sleeve portion up until it traps the bottom of the cuff. This roll looks particularly striking when the inside of the cuff has a contrasting lining.

The Basic Roll

This is the most intuitive way to roll your sleeves. It is recommended if you are going to be working and need your sleeves rolled past your elbow. Unbutton the cuff and any gauntlet buttons (the small buttons along the split in your sleeve above the cuff). Flip the cuff back inside out, then fold it back, using the cuff to set the width. Continue folding until the band of the rolled cloth is just below your elbow.

The High Roller

This method is best if you have to use your arms for intense physical activity and don't want to stretch or wear out the elbows of your sleeves. It is also a good option if you have upper arms you want to show off! Fold your cuff about a width of the cuff, then repeat, covering the folded portion of the cuff. Roll the sleeve a third and fourth time to cover the entire cuff.

The Garter Roll

This method involves using a sleeve band, rubber band, or hair tie to hold the rolled sleeves in place. First, pull the band up and around the upper portion of your sleeve, either a few inches above your elbow or around your mid-bicep. Then, pull the band and your shirt sleeve a few inches up your arm. If you want a cleaner, more intentional look, fold excess fabric over the garter to make the upper sleeve less puffy.

The Classic Roll

This is a formal option for cuffed shirts. First, unbutton the cuff of your shirt. If your shirt has an additional gauntlet button, keep it engaged. Fold the cuff at the seam between the cuff and the sleeve, then fold it over one more time to complete the roll. Make sure to run your fingers through the fold to ensure the cuff is settled flat. Repeat on the other sleeve, making sure both rolls look equally crisp and clean.

The Italian Roll

This roll works on both stiff, formal shirts and softer, more casual materials. Undo all of the buttons on your cuff and sleeve. Flip the cuff inside out and fold it up about one inch past your elbow. Then, flip the inside-out sleeve upward so the edge nearly covers the cuff, leaving a thin sliver of the cuff visible over the fold. Repeat on the other sleeve.

How to layer a unisex T-shirt

A unisex T-shirt is a versatile piece that can be styled in various ways to create different looks. Here are some tips on how to layer a unisex T-shirt to elevate your style game:

Choose the Right Fit

The key to successful layering is to start with the right fit. Opt for a slim-fitting crewneck T-shirt as a base layer. Looser T-shirts might bunch up under additional layers, while V-necks and boat-necks tend to disappear or look out of place. Ensure your T-shirt has a fitted neck, as a worn-out neckline won't look polished. Go for a tuckable length, which will help keep your outfit streamlined and in place.

Layer with a Blazer

One of the classic ways to layer a unisex T-shirt is by pairing it with a structured blazer. Whether you prefer a trim and formal style or an oversized and casual look, a blazer instantly adds polish to your ensemble. This combination can effortlessly take you from the office to drinks with friends.

Denim Jacket for a Relaxed Vibe

Embrace the Americana vibe by pairing your T-shirt with a denim jacket. This laid-back combo is perfect for your days off. Go for a full Canadian tuxedo by throwing on matching straight-leg jeans or a denim skirt. A slim-fit white T-shirt works well here, but you can also opt for a more relaxed, lived-in tee under an oversized jean jacket.

Button-Down Shirt

Layering a button-down shirt over your T-shirt is a great way to transition between seasons. Play with the buttons to control the amount of T-shirt exposure. Clash with the tailored vibe of the button-down by pairing it with leather or suede bottoms.

Leather Jacket for an Edgy Look

Once you invest in a leather or faux-leather jacket, layering it with a T-shirt is a must-try. Whether you go for a no-frills T-shirt, a ribbed pick, or a graphic band tee, it will look effortlessly cool under a vintage-inspired jacket. Complete the look with jeans and white sneakers or a midi skirt and slingback heels.

Trench Coat for Transitional Weather

When the weather is unpredictable, pair your T-shirt with a classic trench coat. This preppy combo works for various occasions. Try jeans and rain boots for rainy days or a miniskirt and loafers when the temperature is mild.

Vests for a Put-Together Look

Vests, whether sweater vests or waistcoats, create a nearly foolproof combo with T-shirts. They give off a relaxed yet put-together vibe, making them ideal for a fancy brunch or a casual day at the office. Adapt to colder weather by throwing a blazer over a sweater vest and your T-shirt.

Crewneck Cardigan or Sweatshirt

Show a hint of your T-shirt under a crewneck cardigan or sweatshirt for a chic, effortless look. You can also layer a crewneck T-shirt under another crewneck for a subtle yet interesting detail.

Dress Over T-Shirt

Revive the early-2010s trend by pairing your T-shirt with a dress. Go for a strappy number and layer it with a slim-fitting T-shirt. A cropped baby tee or a long-sleeve option works well for chillier days. A slip dress leans into grunge style, while a lacy pick is perfect for low-key outdoor celebrations.

Play with Prints and Colours

While solid-coloured T-shirts are versatile, don't be afraid to add a printed tee to your collection. A striped T-shirt, for example, can add depth and interest to your look. You can also experiment with colours to create different moods and styles.

Remember, when layering your unisex T-shirt, consider sizing up for a relaxed fit, especially if you plan to layer it under jackets or over long sleeves. Additionally, blends like cotton-polyester tend to retain their shape and fit longer, so keep this in mind when choosing your T-shirt fabric.

Frequently asked questions