White tee alternative: Pink button up, similar | Sweater over shoulders | White Mother jeans | Gold sandals, similar
Goodbye Basic White Tee: Here’s the Cooler Alternative
This past week, I popped into Nordstrom and found the cutest Vince cotton skirt! But, when I started thinking about the perfect top to use to make an outfit, I quickly realized the usual white tee wasn’t going to cut it. After giving it some thought, I decided that for now, I’m saying goodbye to basic white t-shirts. I’ve found a cooler alternative that’s flattering, super stylish and just as easy to wear!
Today I’m sharing 7 white essentials that always look good, including the white tee option I know you’ll love. You’ll live in these pieces all spring and summer, and they’re the key to making stylish outfits. While you likely already own these staples, there’s a good chance that last year’s favorites need a little refresh! Keep reading for a recap of some favorites, along with some new finds.
ICYMI: Spring Posts You Might Enjoy
What to Wear Now: Spring Outfit Ideas You’ll Love
The Style Edit: Everything on My Radar Right Now
The Only 5 Outfits You Need for Your Spring Vacation
Style Board Inspo
Shop everything here!
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17
Love this new polo top – such a great basic with so many things
Been wearing these pretty earrings on repeat and getting lots of compliments
A white blazer is a wardrobe staple, and this one caught my eye
#1 Here’s Your White Tee Alternative
This season there is ONE style that’s going to give every single outfit an update! I’m talking about a collared t-shirt — better known as a polo style top. When I put this new Vince top on with the eyelet cotton skirt I mentioned above, it was an instantly updated outfit. While there’s a place for basic white tees and tanks, they’re not going to “make” your outfits. And, I don’t know about you, but sometimes a crewneck tee isn’t really that flattering, especially if you’re a little “booby” like I am at the moment 😉 Trust me on this one, this is the update we all need! See below for more options you’ll love.
#2 Classic White (or écru) Jeans
Vince jacket, new version here | White tank | White jeans | Sandals
In my opinion, white (or écru) jeans are the key to making cute spring outfits. Yes, it can be tricky to find the right ones, but it’s worth the effort. Lately, I’ve been wearing these new Mother écru ones on repeat, and the wider leg is updated and flattering. Of course, the Mother Hustlers have been one of my go-to pairs for years — and they’re still best sellers. For a more fashion forward style, check out this wide leg style and this longer length one. Oh, and don’t forget your thong — a must for white jeans!
Ecru options: Frame boyfriend jeans | Mother Lemon twist, petites here | Paige Anessa | Frame Le Slim Palazzo
White options: Mother crop jeans | Frame Le Sleek ankle | J.Crew flare jean | Paige skimmer petites| Madewell long straight leg
#3 White linen pants & trousers
J.Crew linen vest & matching pant | Sandals | Clutch
Last year I discovered my favorite-ever linen pants my J.Crew – called the Carolina Flare pant. I loved them so much, i purchased them in black, white and navy! And so just the other day I noticed they’re back in stock (!!) along with this vest that makes a super stylish matching set. I sized up in the pants – and they’re available in regular, tall and petite sizes.
Several years ago, I watched my daughter Em wearing loose linen pants on basically every hot summer day. So I decided to copy her, and since then, I bring mine on every warm weather vacation. They’re comfy, stylish and easy to pack. Coincidentally, while I’m writing this post, I’m wearing this pair with this Quince cotton sweater. Best options include this Aritzia Lodge pant, this J.Crew one (size up), and this Rails one.
#4 Easy White Dresses & Skirts
Quince linen dress | Gucci cardigan, similar | Sandals, similar
White dresses and skirts are another spring and summer favorite. I think Quince has some of the best options, and you won’t believe the price! Add a cool straw or canvas bag and a cute pair of sunnies to finish the look! Don’t forget to add a white dress (or two) to your collection so you have an easy choice when getting dressed.
Skirt options: This pretty eyelet one, this Vince one that’s on sale, and this tiered midi style
#5 Pretty white tops
Frame eyelet top, similar here | Mother Tripper jeans | Sandals | Dragon Diffusion bag
A white top is one of the easiest ways to refresh your wardrobe for spring. There are so many pretty options this year, like this Frame one I’m wearing on vacation, this classic button up is another great piece, and so is this linen vest top.
#6 Vacation coverups & swimsuits
Tuckernuck dress/coverup | Loewe basket bag | Amazon sandals
Hands down, a white coverup is one of the most important pieces you can have in your vacation capsule wardrobe! It goes with every single swimsuit, and it always looks so chic. I also love a white swimsuit, and this one by La Blanca is my favorite. It’s so flattering, and everyone loves it!
#7 Tennis & Pickleball whites
White tank | White tennis skirt
Whether you play tennis or pickleball, or just want to be comfortable in warm weather, a tennis skirt is a great option. No, you don’t need to play a racket sport in order to wear tennis whites! Even my daughter Emily (who doesn’t play either) wears a tennis skirt and tee when the weather is warm outside!
#8 Jackets & Blazers
White jacket | Tank | Mother jeans | Sandals, similar here
When it comes to the perfect third layer, casual white jackets or blazers are a great choice. They’re versatile and easy to wear, and look polished. Try a blazer like this favorite Cinq a Sept one which is a shorter hoodie version, or this Frame swing denim jacket. Here are a few other options I think you might like.
Thank you for reading! xx
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through the links, we may make a commission.
