
T-shirts are a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down. While they are often associated with casual wear, with the right styling, they can be elevated to create a smart-casual or even a formal look. Whether you're aiming for a polished workwear outfit or a party-ready look, learning how to dress up a T-shirt is a valuable skill. By pairing it with the right pieces and accessories, you can create versatile outfits that are both comfortable and stylish. From simple skirt-and-shirt combinations to more intricate layering tricks, the possibilities are endless. So, get creative and give your T-shirts the attention they deserve!
Characteristics | Values |
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Pair with | Skirts, Blazers, Trousers, Sneakers, Heels, Jewellery, Cardigans, Boots, Scarves, Blazers, Camo Vests, Leather Leggings, Patterned Blazers, Dresses, Jumpsuits, Wide-Leg Dress Pants, Trainers, Statement Jewellery, Skinny Jeans, Pop-of-Colour Shoes, Satin Sweatpants, Designer Scarves |
Modify | Cut, Sew, Add Lace Trimmings, Add Prints, Add Sequins, Bleach, Tie-Dye, Add Fabric Paint, Crop, Tuck, Roll Sleeves, Embroidery, Add Safety Pins |
What You'll Learn
Layering
The key to successful layering is playing with different silhouettes, fabrics, and pairings. For example, try layering a short-sleeve T-shirt over a long-sleeve T-shirt, or vice versa. You can also experiment with contrasting fabrics, such as pairing a crisp, white T-shirt with a leather jacket or a soft, knit cardigan.
For a Y2K-inspired look, try layering a T-shirt over a lacy cami or a long-sleeve shirt. This adds a playful touch to your outfit and can be styled in various ways, from mini skirts to baggy jeans.
When layering T-shirts, pay attention to the fit. Slim-fitting crewneck tees are a great choice as they layer well under most garments without adding bulk. Looser T-shirts can also be layered, but be mindful of the overall silhouette to avoid looking dishevelled.
Another classic layering combination is a T-shirt with a blazer. This instantly elevates the T-shirt, creating a smart-casual look. You can pair a blazer with a simple T-shirt and jeans, or layer it over a statement tee for a more fashionable outfit.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different layers, such as a T-shirt under a bustier top or a slip dress. This adds a casual, cool element to your look and is a great way to transition your favourite summer dresses into the cooler months.
Finally, don't forget about the power of a simple white tee. A white T-shirt layered under a V-neck sweater or a button-down shirt is a timeless look. You can also style it with a denim jacket for a relaxed, Americana vibe.
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Accessories
When it comes to accessorising a t-shirt, statement jewellery is a great option. The type of jewellery you choose will depend on the neckline of your t-shirt. For a classic round neckline, a bold chain necklace can transform a simple t-shirt into a polished look. If you're wearing a v-neck t-shirt, opt for a necklace that follows the shape and size of the neckline. Try layering a few soft necklaces with small pendants or charms.
In addition to necklaces, other types of jewellery can also elevate your t-shirt game. Earrings, bracelets, and elaborate necklaces can all add interest and style to a basic shirt. Playing with different types of jewellery, such as mixed metal looks or simple silver pieces, can create different aesthetics to match your t-shirts.
So, don't be afraid to experiment with different accessories to dress up your t-shirts. By adding the right accessories, you can create stylish and polished looks while still enjoying the comfort and versatility of your favourite t-shirts.
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Skirts
Pencil Skirts
Pencil skirts are classic and streamlined, fitted and tapering down to the knees. They are perfect for formal occasions and the office. For a chic look, pair a black pencil skirt with a black fitted T-shirt. Add a wide, vibrant belt and some red pumps for a pop of colour. For a romantic look, choose a blouse in a contrasting colour. Alternatively, go for a white blouse and add a wide red belt and red pumps.
Denim Skirts
Denim skirts are similar in shape to pencil skirts but less fitted, and they go with almost anything. For a casual look, pair a denim skirt with a T-shirt, from a tank top to a tee or a button-down shirt. You can opt for a classic white blouse or go for a vibrant colour. Graphic T-shirts and blouses with patterns also pair well with denim skirts. For a punky look, layer a loose graphic T-shirt over a fitted, striped button-up blouse, along with a dark-coloured denim skirt. In the summer, pair a denim skirt with a white-and-blue striped blouse. For a dressier look, wear a white or ivory blouse with wedges.
A-Line Skirts
A-line skirts tend to suit most people and are a safe choice. They are fitted at the waist and then flare out, ending just below the knees. For a bold look, pair a patterned A-line skirt with a T-shirt that has thick, bold stripes, ensuring that the skirt and shirt have at least one matching colour. For a more subtle look, pair two different solid colours together or wear a patterned skirt with a solid-coloured T-shirt.
Fit-and-Flare Skirts
Fit-and-flare skirts are similar to A-line skirts but with more volume. They are perfect for twirling and go well with belts and button-down blouses. They are usually knee-length but can also be shorter or longer. For a chic look, try a black fit-and-flare skirt with a fitted T-shirt, pumps, and statement jewellery. For a casual look, pair the skirt with a denim button-up blouse.
Midi Skirts
Midi skirts end at the mid-calf and can make your legs look shorter or wider, so choose one with a high waist to elongate your lower half. Wear midi skirts with heels, such as booties, pumps, or wedges, to make the outfit more flattering. If you have short legs, buy a midi skirt in a petite size, which will have a specific cut that flatters your figure. For a classic look, pair a midi skirt with a fitted blouse, matching booties, and a long necklace.
Tulle Skirts
Tulle skirts are longer than the frilly pink tutus of your childhood, usually ending below the knees. They can be dressed up or down depending on your shoes, T-shirts, and accessories. For a dressy look, pair a long tulle skirt with a fitted blouse or T-shirt, nice jewellery, and pumps or ballet flats. For a casual look, try a graphic T-shirt and canvas sneakers. Add a studded leather belt for a punky touch.
Maxi Skirts
Maxi skirts are long, usually down to the ankles, and are typically loose, breezy, and flowing. They are perfect for a bohemian look and work best with fitted T-shirts. Pair a maxi skirt with a tribal or geometric pattern with a black, fitted T-shirt. Add a necklace that matches your skirt's pattern and theme to bring colour and texture to your outfit. For a casual look, wear a jersey maxi skirt with a fitted graphic T-shirt, sandals, a hat, and sunglasses.
Ball Skirts
Ball skirts are long and voluminous, often made from fancier materials such as taffeta, and are great for formal occasions. For a dressy look, pair a dark-coloured ball skirt with a fitted blouse and pumps or heels, along with matching jewellery. To tone it down, wear a light-coloured patterned ball skirt with a casual knotted denim blouse.
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Blazers
A blazer is a great way to elevate a casual T-shirt, giving it a smart-casual look. It's a good option for when you want to be comfortable but also need to dress appropriately for a particular place or occasion. For example, you might want to wear a T-shirt on a hot summer's day, but if you're going to a restaurant or bar that requires a certain dress code, throwing on a blazer can instantly make your outfit more suitable.
When it comes to styling a T-shirt with a blazer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to pay attention to the fit. Your T-shirt should be slim-fit, fitting snugly around your arms and tapered at the midsection. This will ensure your outfit looks sleek and well-fitting, and it will also help to avoid any unwanted bunching of fabric under your blazer.
The type of blazer you choose also makes a difference. Go for a form-fitting, unstructured blazer for a casual look. This means the blazer will have less stiffness or definition in the shoulders and waist. The sleeves should sit slightly above your wrists, and the blazer should fall below your hips.
In terms of the T-shirt, a crew neck is generally recommended over a V-neck to stay modern and avoid looking like a 1980s throwback. However, a plain white V-neck T-shirt can work well under a printed blazer, especially with a statement necklace. Keep the colours simple and neutral—navy, grey, or white are all good options. Avoid bright colours and bold patterns, and steer clear of graphic T-shirts. A thin-striped T-shirt in a neutral colour is a nice way to add a subtle pattern.
To avoid looking too casual, it's best to tuck your T-shirt into your pants. This also helps to create a tidy, put-together look. When it comes to pants, jeans or chinos are a good choice to match the style of your blazer. For a casual outfit, avoid matching the colour of your blazer to your pants, as this can look too much like the style of the 1980s. Instead, complement your blazer with a different colour or pattern. For example, pair a brown blazer with tan chinos, or a grey plaid blazer with grey trousers.
Finally, finish off your outfit with the right shoes. Sneakers will keep the look casual, while loafers will dress it up a bit more, giving it a business casual feel.
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Trousers
T-shirts are a casual wardrobe staple, but they can also be dressed up for a smart-casual look. The humble T-shirt has emerged as a comfortable, versatile piece that can easily be incorporated into multiple outfits.
When wearing a T-shirt with trousers, you can go for a smart-casual look by adding a blazer. A T-shirt and blazer combination can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. For a more formal look, pair a T-shirt with a well-fitting blazer and tailored trousers. You can also try wearing a T-shirt with a pair of high-waisted trousers and a belt to emphasise your waist. For a more relaxed look, wear your T-shirt untucked over trousers, or try rolling up the sleeves of your T-shirt to add a casual twist.
Additionally, you can experiment with different colours and patterns to create a more stylish ensemble. For instance, try wearing a white T-shirt with a pair of black or navy trousers, or pair a printed T-shirt with plain trousers. You can also try colour-coordinating your T-shirt and trousers for a more polished look.
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Frequently asked questions
Dressing up a T-shirt is a great way to make a comfortable wardrobe staple more versatile. It can easily be incorporated into multiple outfits, giving you a smart-casual look.
There are several ways to style a T-shirt for a smart-casual look. You can pair it with a blazer, a skirt, or trousers. Adding accessories such as statement jewellery or a scarf can also elevate your outfit.
Here are some specific examples of ways to dress up a T-shirt:
- Layer a T-shirt under a bustier top or a slip dress.
- Pair a simple T-shirt with a polished plaid skirt and statement shoes.
- Tuck a plain T-shirt into a pair of high-waisted trousers or a skirt.
- Wear a T-shirt with a midi or maxi skirt and a pair of Doc Martens or similar shoes.