Looks can be deceiving. Sure, a t-shirt can seem basic, but its everyday appearance belies its wardrobe transforming abilities. In other words, it can do a lot to make you look cute. And just because a t-shirt is simple, doesn’t mean it’s easy. Finding the right t-shirt can be a challenge. Fortunately, I’ve rounded up some of the best options for every budget and every body type!
Top T-Shirt Tips
1. Details, details: Look for a t-shirt with a clean hem, nice edges, and upscale details like satin trim or piping.
2. Weight matters: Look for a t-shirt that is substantial enough to wear on its own, and not so sheer that it needs to be layered over something.
3. Keep it simple: The most versatile t-shirt is a solid color, in a simple shape, without any unnecessary embellishments.
4. Quality counts: As with everything, buy the best you can afford. Spend more on classic t-shirts that you can wear for a couple of years, but save on trendy t-shirts in of-the-moment colors, patterns or silhouettes.
5. Black and White: Black, or navy/chocolate/charcoal, if you prefer, and white are the two basic t-shirt colors to start with. Add additional colors as the need arises. White t-shirts need to be updated regularly, because they can look grungy after a couple of seasons.
Read on for the best t-shirts by body type. Don’t know your body type? Here is a handy graphic that breaks it down, or make it official with a custom body type and color analysis (by me!).
Best T-Shirts for Style Dial #1
This proportional body type does well in a slightly fitted, but not skin-tight, v-neck style in the sleeve length of your choice.
Best T-Shirts for a Style Dial #2
This body type, with narrow shoulders and curvy hips, bum and thighs, looks fabulous in horizontal details, like scoop, boat, or wide necks, and details at the shoulders to help the hips appear proportional.
Best T-Shirts for a Style Dial #3
This straighter body type, with proportional shoulders and hips (or sometimes, with broader shoulders) and an undefined waist, will be flattered by v-neck styles, especially with draping, shirring or ruching for waist definition.
A t-shirt might seem like one of the humblest items in your wardrobe, but its versatility and classic, laid-back style make it an essential, so it’s worth the time to find a style that you love. For more Capsule Wardrobe Essentials, check out my regularly updated Essentials Catalog with hand-picked item for every body type, budget, and lifestyle.
Nada Manley says
Hi Sara! Great question! Some ruching is going to be very flattering, but an excessive amount can look maternity-esque. Also, make sure the overall outfit is flattering, and then the focus isn’t just on the shirt. Something simple like this doesn’t look like a maternity top at all, in my opinion. https://www.talbots.com/online/Fairleigh-Ruched-V-Neck-Tee-prdi46042/N-0&selectedConcept=Misses&selectedColor=1008&multifab=False?cmp=dfc-20181022-google-October-allproducts&utm_medium=dfc&utm_campaign=Misses&utm_content=Shirts%20&%20Tops&utm_term=20181022&gclid=Cj0KCQjw6rXeBRD3ARIsAD9ni9DDFs9Lb6pZKCMKP5W87wwcLqjMXKl4-7488t4HQuQJfHoBVBFs2ogaAk9HEALw_wcB
Nada Manley says
LOL Sue! I think every woman needs to own a full length mirror. 🙂
Sue gillenwater says
what is with older women wanting to wear the sleeveless look.High heels and low cut jeans.dont they have a mirror?
Sara says
I’m a style dial 3. Any suggestions on preventing a ruched T-shirt from looking like a maternity shirt?
Nada Manley says
I’m glad you found it helpful Sandra!
Sandra young says
Thank you As an women in my 70’s I like looking good but not to out of fashion for an older person. The app helps to know what to wear for my age and size.
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