The staple clothing item of our era are t-shirts. It’s an ingrained part of our material culture and therefore goes with almost anything in a man’s modern wardrobe. However it is important to keep in mind that what you wear presents a statement about who you are, so try and refrain from putting any obvious or offensive branding or slogans on your person. Keep to subtle coloring; solids are ideal put patterns can work too if you are careful.

T-Shirt and Jeans

This is the primordial ancestor of all modern t-shirt combos. It’s a casual look that harkens back to an era of grubby, mid-century kids playing a pickup ball game and should inform as to the right way to pull off this look without looking too much like a slob. Any non-branded t-shirt will work as long as it fits right and is tucked in. Complete with a pair of high-top chucks, or if you are trying to be a bit more grown up, penny loafers and you will look indistinguishable from the progenitors of this look.

T-shirt and shorts

I’ve spent too many summers trying to pretend like shorts were a fashion misstep, now I can’t wait for the first day when I can finally bring those bad boys out. Since t-shirts are about the most comfortable thing in the heat that still has sleeves. The most obvious choice for foot cover are sandals or similar. If you are uncomfortable putting anything that looks cheap on your feet, opt for leather sandals.

Dressing-Up a T-Shirt

T-shirts can work with vaguely more formal dress as well by simply throwing a cardigan or sport coat over it. The best combinations come from choosing contrasting color schemes with plain t-shirts. Some say leave the cardigan unbuttoned for the best effect. Also, t-shirts can be stepped up a bit and t-shirts made out of posh material like silk can be worn with a suit for a night on the town.

Leather Jacket Combo

For the classic rebel without a cause look pair jeans, t-shirt and leather jacket. This look tends to be a bit costumey, which means basically go whole hog or go home. Therefore a fierce pair of boots is a necessity (no tennis shoes need apply here). My personal favorite here is either high lace boots with the legs of the jeans rolled up, or a pair of snake skin cowboy boots. Also, make sure to have your t-shirt tucked in so as to reveal your similarly fierce belt and aggressive belt buckle.

Tags: t-shirts