How to Wear a T-Shirt – Stylishly

CEBU, Philippines — Everybody knows how popular t-shirts are. It may be safe to say that everybody loves to wear a t-shirt. For one, wearing a t-shirt allows freedom of movement, in the upper body at least.

A t-shirt – so long as it’s one’s right size and fit – is so comfortable to be in. It’s no wonder that people’s house clothes are usually shorts and t-shirts. Beyond the house, t-shirts are also common among students and young office workers on days without their uniforms.

Both boys and girls, men and women, love t-shirts. And the thing has vast possibilities – it can be very low key and yet can be made fashionable. The ladies know this; they’re quite creative in using bling-bling and accessories to turn a simple t-shirt into something dashing.

The men are, to a good extent, rather naïve when it comes to t-shirts. Not many men know whether to wear a crew- or V-neck. Crew necks are suitable for men with a small chest or sloped shoulders. They help in creating an illusion of broader shoulders, giving the body more proportion.

V-necks are perfect for shorter gents because they create an illusion of length and height, elongating the neck. They provide balance to men with long necks and narrow faces. What about a deep V-neck, a scoop neck or a boat neck? Antonio Centeno, of www.realmenrealstyle.com, says it’s best to steer clear of these styles. They tend to be fashion trends that can only be worn tastefully by a select group of men.

What about tucking in the t-shirt? In general, no, says Centeno. It may be tucked into the trousers if worn as part of a uniform. However, depending on the surrounding culture and common practice – as well as the shape of the t-shirt and the rest of the outfit – it is possible to rock a tucked-in tee. The tucked-in-t-shirt style works best as inner shirt to a short-sleeve polo shirt and tailored trousers.

In styling an outfit with a t-shirt, a man may simply follow the example of classic style icons (like James Dean, Marlon Brando) – pairing a classic white t-shirt with jeans and a pair of boots. This is the most understated and effortless look for a man. Or, layer a shirt by wearing a jacket, cardigan or checked shirt, along with dark denim and stylish loafers or monk strap.

When is it appropriate to wear a t-shirt? It is good for the man to consider the reason why he needs to wear a t-shirt. If intending to make a great first impression, on a date or a party, a colored shirt is a better option.

The man should ask himself what the rest of the people at the event are going to be wearing. If it looks like he’ll be surrounded by a sea of t-shirts, the man shall feel free to dress down as well, but with a quality top. Concerts, the local bar, beaches and casual parties with close friends are all acceptable occasions to dress for comfort in a t-shirt. Any activity that involves a lot of sweating, including sport requires a t-shirt as well. One shall ensure wearing a t-shirt that is designed as outerwear and not as an undershirt.

T-shirts shall be maintained with proper care while cleaning them. They won’t have the same impact if they look like their best days are well in the past.

Reference: “5 Secrets to Looking Great in a T-Shirt” (www.realmenrealstyle.com)  (FREEMAN)