Wondering how to dress up a t-shirt and other comfortable outfits? You don’t always need flashy outfits to appear dressed up. A t-shirt and jeans are foundational essentials versatile enough to fit most dress codes.
It’s important to know the basics of each dress code. It keeps you from showing up in jeans and sneakers to a wedding gala or in a suit or gown to a friend’s pool party.
However, there are times when there’s no certain dress code, yet you’re expected to look smart. Or maybe you only want to go for a night’s out in style yet in comfy clothing. Read on because here are some tips on how to dress up a t-shirt and other comfy outfits.
Ways to Dress Up a T-Shirt and Jeans
T-shirts and jeans are easy to both dress up or dress down. To elevate your look, use knee-high boots with your go-to pair. Suppose you’re not in the mood for form-fitting denim, partner a pair of ’90s-inspired baggy jeans with a sleeveless shirt and kitten mules.
Accessories aren’t the only things that elevate a jeans-and-shirt outfit. The base pieces are important too.
If you’re going with firm blue jeans that pool at the bottom, make sure to pair them with an elevated and breezy shirt. Meanwhile, if you’re going for a pair of tapered black denim, have something more casual on top. Here are other ways to dress up in jeans and a t-shirt.
1. Put on a Statement Blazer
A combination of jeans, a t-shirt, and a blazer always works. Instead of going for your usual black jacket, try on something brighter.
2. Have a Fashionable Handbag
You might feel casual with a box-cut shirt and cut-off shorts. Try doing a half-tuck to jazz the outfit up.
Finally, grab a trendy handbag to top off your look. This is one of the cute ways to dress up jeans and a t-shirt.
3. Wear a Pair of Statement Earrings
Big, flashy jewelry can make you stand out with a casual outfit. Elevate your t-shirt and jeans with a pair of droppers, bright hoops, or a large and bulky chain necklace.
4. Put on a Trench Coat
You can make any pair of jeans look more elegant with this sleek outerwear. If the weather allows it, top of your casual t-shirt and jeans with a faux-leather trench coat.
5. Red Lipstick
If you’re asking how to dress up a t-shirt and jeans with makeup, then here’s a tip for you. Wearing a navy tee with a sleeve that’s closer to the elbow can already help elevate your outfit.
Pair this with red lipstick, and you’re sure to look more elegant. You can even add magnetic eyelashes to brighten your gaze.
6. A Vintage Moto Jacket
A classic moto jacket is also a wardrobe essential good for any season. It’s most convenient during spring.
Add depth to your classic look by letting your tee hang past your hips. If the occasion is calling for more, like a date, a pair of sandals with a modest heel will do the trick.
7. A Faux-Crop and Mom Jeans
You don’t always need to pull out shears to achieve a cropped look. You don’t want to ruin a good shirt with a crooked hem.
Unless you have a graphic t-shirt with a cropped fit, you can tie your shirt up or tuck the hem into your bra. Pair your faux-crop with high-waisted mom jeans, layered jewelry, and sneakers. This might be your new favorite go-to for spring and summer.
Some Tips on Dressing Up Comfy Clothes
It’s not as hard as you might think to look dressy and comfortable at the same time. Here are some other tips for dressing up in comfy outfits.
Add Layers
Adding layers works wonders to elevate an outfit. Whether it’s a scarf, jacket, vest, or others, an extra layer gives your outfit more personality. A long-sleeved women’s cardigan sweater can make you look meeting-ready even with a tank top and palazzo pants.
For even more visual flair, introduce contrasting colors with your added layers. Regardless of the season, you can find a material that’s light or heavy enough to keep you comfy yet stylish.
Make Sure You Look Neat and Tidy
Whether you’re dressed up or dressed down, disheveled hair and not-so-neat makeup won’t help your look. Take care to look neat and tidy, whether it’s combed or tied hair or light makeup.
This can only take you a few minutes. A dressed-up outfit can only compliment you if you’re neat and tidy from head to toe.
Top Off Your Look With Shoes
The shoes may be at the bottom-most part of your outfit, yet they can make or break your look. Consider your shoes if you want to glamorize a casual outfit.
A t-shirt dress will look more casual with slippers and flats. Meanwhile, pumps, heels, or dressy sandals immediately elevate your casual outfit. If you do it right, shoes can complete the look you’re going for.
Pair Your Tunic Tops With Accessories
Cozy tunics and leggings are the go-to pair for loungewear. They’re so comfortable you can even wear them to bed without changing into pajamas.
You can turn this simple and comfy loungewear stunning by adding accessories. Try on a long necklace or a fashion scarf. These add-ons can transform your stay-in look to one that’s party-ready.
Go for a More Formal Bottom
Usually, changing the bottom part of your outfit is enough to elevate your look. If you want to know how to dress up a t-shirt or any casual top, attending to your bottom is key.
Dress up comfy tops like tunics and t-shirts by exchanging those sweatpants for slacks or jeans. This is a quick way to dress up while keeping your comfy sweatshirt on.
Enjoy Style and Comfort by Knowing How to Dress Up a T-Shirt
There will be times when you’re not sure about an occasion’s dress code. Other times you might want to dress up while keeping comfy and casual clothes on. If you’re looking for ideas on how to dress up a t-shirt and other casual clothes, then follow these tips. Want more ideas on how to dress up your outfit? Check out our other guides here.