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August 3, 2005
Over the years, the t-shirt has truly evolved into a wardrobe staple. According to a recent survey by Hanes, the average woman owns 26 t-shirts. The majority of women even own more t-shirts than shoes!
The t-shirt is no longer just a basic white crew, there are tons of styles, fits and fabrics that can be worn to virtually any occasion all year round.
Choosing the right fit and style:
Neckline:
1. Crew neck t-shirt
The basic crew neck is the most traditional style t-shirt. It�s classic and will always be in style. But it�s not for everyone, women with larger chests or short necks should avoid the crew neck.
* Hanes Classic Pre-Shrunk Tee - The basic white tee will never go out of style. Our favorite, and still the best bang for your buck, is the traditional pre-shrunk 3-pack from Hanes. Shop in the boys department for a snug fit.
* Banana Republic White Crew Neck � this one�s a bit thicker for a dressier look
2. V-necks, Scoop Necks
These tend to be the most flattering styles, they can flatter both large and small chests and tend to show off a woman�s thinnest feature: her upper chest and collarbones. Also helps to elongate the neck.
* Dark Red Scoop neck tee with � sleeve from Three Dots
* Pink V-neck sleeveless tee with twist front from Lilla P
Length / Shape:
Choose tees that are tailored, rather than boxy, for the most flattering fit. Many tees today are cut very narrow, so don�t be afraid to go up a size if necessary.
We�re also seeing a lot of longer-length tees (mainly as a result of low-rise jeans!) These can be very flattering and slimming on some, but petite women should be careful as they can make you look shorter
* Red v-neck long length tee from Splendid
A banded bottom can help offset the length for a petite woman
* Mauve Henley with banded bottom from Three Dots
Sleeves:
Shoulder seams should sit right at the widest part of the shoulder for a proper fit.
Cap sleeves work well on most figures, unless you have a particularly heavy arm
* Orange cap-sleeve tee found at Marshalls
Avoid short sleeves that hit right in the middle of the upper arm and any sleeves that don�t fit snugly. If you prefer to cover up, go for � length sleeves which showcase a thinner wrist, or long sleeves.
* � length sleeve tee found at TJ Maxx
What to Wear Under Your Tee:
The right bra is essential for getting a smooth, no show-through look under your tee. A t-shirt bra typically has a very slightly padded cup to give a finished look. Avoid lace which can appear lumpy.
* Barely There Comfortable Curves Underwire T-Shirt Bra � thin foam, seamless cups and tag free for comfort. Or, look for tanks and tees with built-in support
* Bali Behind the Scenes Tailored Camisole � has a full support underwire bra inside to give shaping without bulky layers or unsightly straps
buy it here
* En Vie tee from figleaves.com � has a built-in shelf bra for women who don�t need as much support
Plus Sizes:
Many companies today are cutting their t-shirts specifically to flatter larger sizes.
* Short Sleeve Tunic Tee and � Sleeve T-Shirt from Roaman�s Catalog � These have a loose fit to cover tummy and bottom and arms that go past the heaviest part. A scalloped scoop neck and deep zippered v-neck are the most flattering.
Fabrics:
Fabric determines many factors about a t-shirt.
100% cotton is the classic - it's comfortable and breathes well. This hooded version has Stay Clean fabric protection added in to reduce staining
* hooded jersey from Hanes
A Lycra or spandex blend will drape better and help the shirt to retain its shape, even after repeated washings. You can also get a nice, close fit without feeling constricted.
* � sleeve stretch scoopneck from Lands� End
A cotton/rayon blend feels extra silky and the color stays true and retains its luster through repeated washings.
* Ivory Supima cotton and rayon Henley from Lands� End
Mesh is a great fabric variation that truly bridges the gap towards a dressier look
* Mesh shirt from Sweet Pea
Tissue Thin t-shirts have become extremely popular over the last few years. They�re ultra-light and great for layering. Some companies cut their tees on the bias for a figure-skimming look.
* J Crew and C&C California tees
Trends:
* Vintage/washed out tees (from Fashion Bug, PlanetFunk.com and Barking Irons)
* Embellished with sequins or beads (from PlanetFunk.com and J Lo)
* Tanks with built-in jewelry (from Cynthia Rose, Crimes + Misdemeanors and Miller Girl)
* Prints (zebra print from Thalia at KMart, leopard prints from C&C California)
* Message tees (David & Goliath and Planet Mom T-Shirts)
* Layered (Conspiracy Eight and JC Penney)
* Interesting Shapes (crossover and tie front tops from Lilla P)
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Our models wore Adam + Eve tank tops:
* For daytime, we paired it with a peasant skirt from TJ Maxx and wood jewelry
* For evening, we paired it with black pinstripe gauchos and a short nylon jacket from Ellis Dixon
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