T-shirts are a classic genre that often gets an unfair casual label. While few outfits spark immediate feelings of comfort and security, like a T-shirt and sweats. When done right, T-shirts can be a fantastic, effortless way to go from day to night without stopping at home for a total outfit change.
T-shirts can be casual and leisurewear adjacent when needed, but when paired with the right outfit, they can elevate any evening or event look. When attempting to pair, there aren’t a ton of rules. However, there are some basic guidelines we suggest adhering to:
Remember Dress-Codes
As with all great things in life, T-shirt pairings tend to be dress-code dependent. If you’re heading to a semi-casual or “modern” semi-formal event, a T-shirt paired with something more structured and elevated will usually be OK. However, if you try to show up to a strictly formal or black-tie event rocking a T-shirt under that tuxedo, you’ll most likely feel out of place and need to run home for an outfit change. So, when playing around with T-shirt pairings, keep the event you’re going to and the associated dress code firmly in mind.
Pay Attention to Color and Patterns
One thing that we love about T-shirts is that they go with anything. However, when people mix and match their T-shirts with other clothing items, they often forget that colors and patterns still have their time, place, and best fits. Make sure that whatever outfit you’re creating still flows as it should; and remember, the rules on patterns, colors, and clashing will always apply.
Stay True to You
No matter what T-shirt pairing you choose, make sure that you stay true to yourself, embracing your individuality and unique style. When selecting your t-shirt pairings, it’s essential to consider what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Whether dressing up for a special occasion or simply going about your day-to-day routine, your attire should reflect your personality and preferences.
The best part about T-shirt pairings is that they’re gender ambivalent. All of the pairings we list below can be rocked by everyone.
T-shirt and Slacks
If you’re heading to an event with a fashion-forward dress code, a great way to achieve a formal-adjacent look is to pair a T-shirt with a nice pair of pants. Whether going with classic work-style slacks or experimenting with a more flowy or loose option, adding a more casual top to a more formal bottom immediately centers your look. It allows you to ride formal and casual lines with a chic and effortless edge. Pair a cotton T-shirt with satin or textured pants for dramatic effect. The dimension will give you a great silhouette and enhance the look and feel of the outfit.
T-shirt and Blazer
Like the T-shirt and slacks, a T-shirt and blazer is a great way to achieve a chic look without seeming stuffy or overdressed. The T-shirt and blazer combination gives you that “something special” look and offers an elevated look that’s formal enough to hold its own at a semi-casual restaurant but casual enough not to seem out of place at a happy hour or friends’ night out. We love the work-to-play nature of this look, and, as a bonus, the blazer comes in handy during cooler months or warmer months when indoor AC can get a bit too frigid.
T-Shirt and Sweater/Sweater Vest
Layered looks are some of our favorites. If you’re looking for a way to make a stuffy sweater more relaxed and endearing, try layering it with your favorite T-shirt to add some dimension and to make things more casual and comfortable. At the other extreme, if you have a T-shirt but you want it to feel a bit more nuanced, add a sweater or sweater vest and create a more structured, versatile look that can flow more easily between venues and events with different themes and dress codes.
Oversized T, Skinny Jeans
Oversized T-shirts are not new to the fashion world, but they are definitely having a moment. Oversized T-shirts paired with skinny jeans or tighter pants (we love T-shirts and leather pants) are a great way to enhance your T-shirt pairing. When trying out this look, make sure that you don’t go too oversized. Whatever oversized shirt you choose should be the correct dimensions and length, or you risk losing yourself in whatever outfit you create.
T-shirt/Sweatshirt
Like the sweater/T-shirt combo, the T-shirt/sweatshirt mix-and-match is a great way to enhance a casual sweatshirt moment. We love pairing gray or white sweatshirts with bright or bold-colored T-shirts to add color and dimension to a look. However, even a classic white t-shirt can immediately elevate your sweatshirt look.
Formal Bottoms/Distressed T
Mixing genres is always a great way to make a statement and stand out. One way to do this with a T-shirt is to combine a distressed T-shirt with overly clean and structured dress pants. This combination will bring some casual, fashion-forward dimension to the pants, taking a potentially stuffy outfit and making it chic, sophisticated, and modern.
Whatever combination you choose, pair that look with the right accessories. Whether it’s a necklace, watch, earrings, or belt, make sure that your outfit accompaniments match the look and feel you’re going for. As with our T-shirt combination preferences, we love pairing elegant, elevated accessories with more casual and distressed looks. Think a classic white with a statement watch or a distressed T-shirt paired with a diamond necklace or earrings. This sort of duality will help take your looks to the next level.
When it comes to T-shirt combinations, the sky’s the limit regarding what works and what doesn’t. Whatever you choose, make sure that your end look makes you look and feel like you want it to, and, most importantly, have fun with your combinations. Fashion should be fun and creative, so have a good time and find the best combinations for you, your body, and your life.
