Let Me See Them Hanes!

With the recent introduction of Hanes x Karla, I got thinking about that most humble and hardworking of fashion items: the t-shirt - and how to incorporate it in daily fashion! Once relegated to being underwear for men, the style history of the t-shirt has been influenced by gents from Clark Gable (who once went tee-free. Coincidentally, the undershirt factories in America had to shut down the next day and Clark's influence as a style-setter has been blamed ever since) to James Dean, who made the garment iconic with his inimitable 50's cool. Luckily for us, the t-shirt has expanded its fashion territory and now can be worn by pretty much everyone and with pretty much everything. Hanes is an iconic purveyor and their product quality has maintained its high standards over time. Early last year, I updated my collection with a bunch of yummy colors in the classic not-overly-refined ribbed-trim style (the Beefy). I'm a fan of the fabric weight, which is thick enough to not be overly see-through even in lighter hues (like yellow :D). Note: I did not try a white as I am a stain magnet and have basically tapped out on the whole attempt to wear white tees.  The colors have held up wonderfully through multiple soaks and washings and the fabric gets even softer the more its worn. And how exactly might it be worn?
Tees are so casual that they work really well as the laidback piece of a casual-formal mix. I love the idea of pairing one with high-waisted wide-leg pants - it's a modern take on the classic style.  The bold statement and ultra-chic vibe of the pants is softened by the chill vibes from the tee. I went with on-trend stripes here, but nearly any variation of the wide-leg (from standard neutral twill to pink silk) will work. A super-casual rendition of the look can be done with a denim version of the silhouette. To keep the casual-formal dynamic, finish with low-heeled mules or wedge espadrilles. Or, bring the nonchalance via sneakers. I love adding a touch of contrasting color to a neutral pairing, like this powder pink with the navy. Add an oversize watch with a pink band, or a  bangle to echoe the hue, carrying it through the look.
The interplay between simplicity and complexity is another fun avenue to explore. Consider pairing the pared-down tee with an intricate lace pencil skirt or floral-embellished A-line. Other possibilities include floral prints or pleated metallic pieces. Don't shy away from unusual and expressive color combinations, either! The bright teal really gives the look a pop, as would lilac, bright rose or lemon. Choose neutral accessories, or mix-without-matching by adding  more colors (e.g. a powder blue bag or light aqua ring here) in the same family.
The obvious partner for the iconic t-shirt is the equally iconic blue jean. Go for a cropped (or roll your own ;)) skinny silhouette and add panache by styling with strong contrasting accessories and beauty looks: deep magenta sandals and bag, or an orange statement ring and lip shade.  Heels help elevate the relaxed tee-jeans combo - don't be afraid to push the envelope with satin or be-jeweled versions. (Note: flats in those two genres will be fancy enough to work similarly).
For warm temps,  and relaxed occasions, the tee works fabulously with shorts. Well, duh, right? :) Since the combination is so ubiquitous, add a spark to the look by including an unexpected twist: finish it off with ankle booties (split-shaft versions like the Jeffrey Campbell Cromwell (as modeled by Summer) are having a moment, but any pair will do. Think more 'practical', 'broken-in'  and 'urban' than fierce. Stay with mid-low heels or flats.  Add color and visual interest with an embroidered or intricately laser-cut belt (studs work too ;)), printed scarf, ribbon or tassel at your waist.  I hope this inspires you to let the world see your Hanes sometime soon ;) Happy styling!