THE CLASSIC WHITE T-SHIRT

Being just a “jeans and t-shirt girl” has been stripped of any association with a careless attitude towards fashion by stylish girls looking for the, “I just rolled out of bed and threw this t-shirt on and yet I look undone in that fabulous way” vibe. That t-shirt no longer comes in a 3-pack and it definitely costs more than your morning grande iced latte.  After all, what goes better with $300 Japanese denim than a perfectly un-fitted organic cotton white v-neck?

Ashley Olsen built her entire line, The Row around the idea of a perfect t-shirt with French seams, elongated short sleeves and a part v/part scoop neck line.  Ashley wears her design with ease paired with trouser pants for Marie Claire.  Mischa Barton brings a boho vibe, while Kate Moss, as always, is complete rock and roll girlfriend. Rachel Bilson layers her t-shirt under an amazing Rick Owens leather jacket, a look the man himself explored on the runway.  Alexander Wang built a fall collection around the undone vibe of a t-shirt paired with a structured jacket, a juxtaposition Nicole Richie is also into.

The birthplace of perfectly undone cool, L.A. is home to many designers who focus nearly solely on perfecting the tee.  From ubiquitous American Apparel mainstays, to James Perse, who has brought soft to another level, and Splendid, who has expanded their wares to include more patterns, the list is seemingly endless. 

 

You don’t need Adam Smith to tell you the demand is there.  Newcomer Kain, a label by the owner of a vintage shop in California is becoming the next shirt to covet and collect with a slightly oversized feel for the slouch that’s just perfect on waifish hipsters, and a touch of unexpected cashmere to add an element of luxury.

The price point may be rising, but in that recession-speak of wear-occasions, the white tee simply cannot be beat. And how else are you going to appear perfectly disinterested while looking perfect?

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