THE BASICS: A Perfect White Tee

Splendid Basic Tee$46.00
Available at: Amazon.com

Need a really good New Year's resolution that will actually be fun to keep? Resolve to make over your wardrobe. Out with the old; in with quality fashion staples that will help create a functional wardrobe you adore. We started our new series "The Basics" with a must-have shoe-- the Classic Black Pump. Now we're ready to tackle the original wear anywhere top: the Perfect White Tee.

Why is the Perfect White Tee a wardrobe staple? A white tee can be worn on it's own or layered under anything from other tees, to sweaters, to blazers and cardigans. A white tee can be casual, when paired with a flirty summer skirt and flip-flops, or dressy with dark denim and high-heel peep toes. The Perfect White Tee can also take you to a black tie affair, when paired with a ballgown style skirt and shimmering flats, or to the beach over your favorite bikini. There isn't a single piece of clothing in your wardrobe that is more versatile. The key is to always have a few high quality white tees on hand. Why high quality? The higher the quality, the more versatile the shirt. C'mon, can you imagine wearing a discount store 3-pack tee with a ballgown skirt? High quality also buys you a body-conscious fit, longer length, better stretch, softer fabric, better shape retention, and longer life. All things that you really do want in a wardrobe staple.

I'm a little obsessive about tees and have tried on (and bought) more than I can count. My favorite tee shirt by a mile is Splendid (top right). They are so soft that they rival my finest cashmere for the title of coziest top in my closet. The secret is a 50/50 Modal and Pima blend that stretches to conform to your every curve. The shape is feminine and body-conscious and the length is nice and long, so you can wear them with your low rise jeans without looking like you are trying to relive your teen years. On a scale of 1 to 10, I give them an 11.

A close second in the running for best ever tee is anything from James Perse. These tissue-light tees feature a fabulous fit that is so distinctive that some fashionistas can spot a James Perse tee just by glancing at the woman wearing it.

James Perse Short Sleeve Crew
$39.00
Free Shipping
Available at: ShopBop.com

Like your tees to skim, rather than hug, your curves? Then the C+C California Surf Tee is the one for you. C+C tees have a cult following thanks to their unique, super thin cotton knit and shapes that are made to be layered. Their Surf Tee combines the C+C style with a relaxed fit to make the perfect weekend tee. I was even able to find you a great sale price!

C+C California Surf Tee
$19.95 (was $40-- save 50%!)
Available at: Adasa.com

For a "green chic" alternative to your standard cotton tee, check out American Apparel's Organic Tee. Widely regarded as the softest, best fitting organic tees on the market, these form fitting tees combine American Apparel's super sexy style with 100% Organic Cotton fabric that is combed for softness.

American Apparel Organic Tee
$11.80
Available at: Amazon.com

Gap's Favorite Tee is the classic bargain-priced basic tee. For only $14.50 you get a cotton tee with a timeless shape and great fit that you won't feel bad tossing away when the mustard vinaigrette from your salad finds it's way onto the front of your shirt. What a deal.

Gap Short-Sleeved Favorite Tee
$14.50
Available at: Gap.com

Click on any photo to link directly to where you can purchase that perfect white tee online. Don't miss any of "The Basics." Subscribe to Stiletto Jungle and get free updates by e-mail or RSS.