The t-shirt has been a wardrobe staple for decades. During that time, it’s seen a wide variety of uses. Never though have t-shirts been quite as mainstream, sophisticated or acceptable as they are today.


In recent years, the t-shirt has become classy and versatile enough to be worn to the beach, the office or a cocktail party.

A Brief History of the T-Shirt

(In case you were wondering…)
As Underwear: The t-shirt originally derived from men’s one-piece underwear. The one-piece garment was cut below the waist, leaving the shirt long enough to tuck into the pants. Men who labored in warm environments would often remove their jackets or button up shirts and work in their t-shirts. American military men observed European dock workers laboring in their t-shirts during the first World War. Shortly after the war, t-shirts began being issued as part of the standard military uniform.
As Shirts: Before the 1950’s, t-shirts were only worn alone by men who worked outside. Even then, they were often worn under shirts that were discarded as the weather got hot or the work got intense. T-shirts were easy to clean and thus preferred by laboring men and the mothers of young boys.
In the 1950’s, James Dean and Marlon Brando wore t-shirts in popular movies, making the shirts more of a wardrobe option and less of an undershirt.
By the 60’s, t-shirts were being used to advertise, starting with Disney characters and vacation resorts. It was at this point that t-shirts became accessible to young girls, but they were still not worn by women.
T-shirts weren’t really a stylish option for women until the 80’s with wide-neck tees that hung off one shoulder. Even then, these tees were primarily for young women. Women never would have worn t-shirts to the office or out to a classy party.
It’s really only been in the last few years that women of any age can stylishly wear t-shirts for more than just lounging or vacationing.

T-Shirts on the Runway

T-shirts are the perfect wardrobe addition because of how versatile they are. They can be dressed up or used to dress down a more dressy piece. T-shirts and t-shirt material are being used by designers more and more frequently, especially during this recession.

Balmain Fall 2009, D & G Fall 2009, Tory Burch Spring 2010, Rebecca Taylor Spring 2010

Types of T-shirts

There are tons of different types of t-shirts. The categories I’ve picked to spotlight here are the types that are most stylish and popular this year.

Drapey Tees

Drapey tees that hang off the shoulder, gather at the waist and/or act as tunics are a great dressy option to the traditional tee. Some of these styles (like the off-the-shoulder tees) hearken the iconic 80’s tee. Others take the men’s muscle tee to a more feminine level. While still others are ultra feminine and not too 80’s at all.

Shown: Lush Studded Dolman Sleeve Top, ADORA DOLMAN TUNIC, Free People ‘Jersey Ballerina’ Slit Shoulder Top

Basic Tees

You know the basic tee. It’s typically either round-necked or v-necked with sleeves that hit just below your bicep. Basic tees can have pockets or be completely plain.
For a stylish basic tee, choose one that is fairly fitted, is hip-length or slightly longer, with either a v-neck or a slightly plunging round-neck.
Basic tees are great to dress down other pieces. A basic tee can be paired with a dressy pencil skirt for a look that’s sophisticated, but not overdone. Basic tees are also perfect to wear under suit jackets.

Shown: Banana Republic Timeless Tee, Victoria’s Secret Crewneck Tee, JCrew Classic Tee

Embellished Tees

Embellished Tees take the basic t-shirt to a whole new level. Many embellished tees are dressy enough for a night on the town or, depending on the shirt, a cocktail party. JCrew has a great variety of ‘novelty tees’ that feature embroidered and sewn-on embellishments, ranging from sweet to full-on glam.

Shown: Bellatrix Beaded Knit Tunic, Victoria’s Secret Studded Scoopneck, CAMILLA LACE-BACK DOLMAN

Designer Tees

While some designers are dabbling in tee design and including t-shirts in their collections, there are other designers who are known for their t-shirts. Celebrities and fashionistas are willing to shell out hundreds of dollars for t-shirts designed by certain designers. James Perse, Kain and Elizabeth & James are a few of the brands that are most well-known when it comes to t-shirts.

What do you think?

I have become a huge fan of tees this Fall. They’re pretty much all I want to wear. I love wearing a basic v-neck tee with dressy skirts, hose and heels.
What about you?