Styling an Oversized Black Tee

Cute, classic, and comfortable—three words that describe the current status of my wardrobe. I think it’s safe to say that a majority of our recent clothing purchases were made with different intentions than in previous years. Comfort has always been a priority of ours within our wardrobe choices, but now more than ever, I find myself looking for the “comfort factor” within all of the pieces that ultimately make their way into my closet.

I think that there’s a large misconception when it comes to categorizing our outfits. We associate clothing items such as t-shirts, sweatpants, and sneakers with days of lounging, and denim and blouses with days of something more. Don’t get me wrong, there’s reasoning behind this mindset—you want to be at your most comfortable while relaxing at home and you want to look your best on days of being out and about. However, if there’s anything style-wise that this year has taught me, it’s that you do not need to settle for either looking your best or feeling your best. In fact, it’s rather easy to accomplish both of these style goals.

This brings me to the focus of today’s post…In looking to obtain both comfort and style within my spring wardrobe, I purchased some “basic” pieces that would add elements of simplicity and sophistication to my closet.

…You’re probably wondering how something like a plain t-shirt can be seen as anything more than just that, a plain t-shirt—A valid point, for sure, but I’m about to show you just how versatile a basic clothing item can be…

A favorite of my latest purchases is a naturally oversized black tee from Bloomingdales (from the BB Dakota x Steve Madden Collection). I initially picked out this shirt with the intention of having more tops with short sleeves (something that my wardrobe seemingly lacked…I know, surprising for someone that shops as much as I do). However, I quickly realized that this shirt could be so much more than just a t-shirt for lounging. Yes, it’s simple, but it is because of this that it can be styled within a variety of different looks.

Here are three of many ways that you can style an oversized tee…

Look 1-Athletic

I’d describe this first look as ~athletic chic~…it includes all of the elements of athleisure, but with an added touch. Here, I paired the oversized tee with a pair of black bike shorts (these are the 8” Lululemon Align Shorts—the absolute best). I went light on the jewelry, pairing these pieces with my go-to sterling silver hoop earrings and my Love Ring, adding the chic to these evident athletic vibes. I would finish off this outfit with a pair of all-black sneakers and a small backpack, keeping with the simple, sleek nature of this sporty look.

Look 2-Everyday

This is what I like to call an ~everyday~ outfit, simple pieces appropriately accessorized for a classic look. Here, I paired the same oversized black tee with vintage, straight leg jeans from Express. I accessorized with jewelry a little more with this outfit, including a puffed heart pendant necklace and a beaded heart bracelet, along with the sterling silver hoops and Love Ring from the last look. I would finish off this look with a pair of fashion sneakers or sandals, and either a tote or shoulder bag for practical, everyday use.

Look 3-Elevated Casual

This last look is my definition of ~elevated~ casual, which combines elements of casual and elegant fashion. Here, I styled this oversized tee as a t-shirt dress (spandex underneath=no issues with length) and belted it a little above the waist to create a subtle look of elegance. In keeping with the “golden” tones, I accessorized with yellow gold jewelry, which included white and yellow gold twisted hoop earrings and a gold bangle bracelet (you can also add a necklace to further enhance the outfit). I would finish off this look with a pair of platform or heeled sandals, and with a gold-accented crossbody or evening bag.

I hope these looks inspire some of your next apparel purchases…Definitely think twice before you underestimate the ability of basic pieces within your wardrobe—and remember, cute, classic, and comfortable looks can be found in some of the least expected pieces.