A great wardrobe always starts with the basics, which is why we’re talking about t-shirts today. When was the last time you cleaned out your t-shirt drawer? It’s time to toss out any white tees with sweat stains or black shirts that have faded. A couple new shirts can make even make your jeans-and-t-shirt uniform feel fresh again. Wear your new black and white t-shirts under sweaters or blazers now, and let them shine on their own when it starts getting hot again.
Gap’s basics have gotten really, really great again – and this half-sleeve crewneck shirt is a prime example. I was surprised by how great the Amazon Essentials tees are, and the 2-shirt package is an unbeatable price. J.Crew’s slim perfect t-shirt is fitted with a longer-than-usual short sleeve, so it’s great for tucking in under a blazer.
With summer coming up, a linen-weight v-neck from Vineyard Vines is a good idea. For an extremely fitted shirt, the Theory Apex Tiny tee fits the bill. The Lauren Ralph Lauren crewneck is fitted but a little bit longer, so it avoids cropped vibes. On the other hand, you can always rely on this COS tee for a perfectly structured fit.
If you want to splurge on a basic, Rag & Bone’s The Tee is a perfect crewneck in white or black. It’s fitted enough to layer underneath sweaters and tuck into jeans, but not so tight you’ll feel self-conscious after a big lunch. The Vince Essential crewneck tee ticks all the same boxes.
Looking for a long-sleeve? We’ve got you. Tommy Bahama’s three-quarter sleeve has a chic boatneck. Liverpool Los Angeles’s square neck feels different and adds a dose of sophistication. When in doubt, you can always find something great at J.Crew, like this vintage cotton inspired long-sleeve.
Finally, maybe you want a basic that feels…a little less basic. This COS oversized mock-neck t-shirt feels more like a blouse than a tee thanks to the billowy sleeves and slouchy, contemporary cut. Goop’s G.Label shirt has pleated sleeves for a crisp, unexpected detail that feels dressy enough for trousers. Speaking of sleeves, Rebecca Taylor’s puff-sleeve comes in black or white.
Shop the rest of our black and white t-shirts edit below:
All of our recommendations are curated by Susan & the In The Groove editorial team. In some, but not all cases, we receive a small commission for leading you to what, how and where to buy all this wonderful stuff.
