My Favorite Everyday Basics for Layering or Wearing Solo

I’ve tried a lot over the years, and today I’m rounding up the ones I’m reaching for this season—soft fabrics, flattering fits, and versatile styles you can dress up or down. Whether you’re stocking up on affordable basics or investing in a few elevated staples, these are the tees and tanks I think are worth it.

Best V-Neck Tees

A classic v-neck is flattering, easy to layer, and never goes out of style. These are my top picks this spring!

AllSaints Anna V-Neck Cotton T-Shirt in White

also wearing: Wit & Wisdom kick flares (8) // Caslon stripe sweater (S) // Veronica Beard Via Slides (8) // Amazon woven crossbody // Anna Beck necklace

This one is my newest addition. It’s made from 100% cotton with a boxy fit and a modern 24″ length. I love the rolled sleeves, and the trim along the high v-neck adds a clean, finished touch. Just a heads-up: it’s quite sheer, so you’ll want to keep that in mind when styling. I like it with a sweater tossed over the shoulders for a subtle preppy vibe.

It also comes in a crewneck version, if you prefer that style. This tee runs true to size, but if you’re between sizes, I’d recommend sizing up. I have it in a medium.

FRAME Le Mid Rise V-Neck Tee in Blanc or Gris Heather

also wearing: MOTHER Roller (29) // rattan earrings // straw clutch // MOTHER Dazzler Flood (30) // Veja Esplar (39)

This one’s definitely a splurge, but the cut and fabric are so good. It’s made from a thinner material with a slightly dressier feel, and the narrow, deep v-neckline is super flattering. I usually reach for this one when I want a more elevated basic—it layers beautifully and also works on its own with a few fun accessories.

I like this one so much, I have it in both white and heather grey. I sized down to an XS in the white, but my usual size small worked well in the grey—go figure!

Gap Factory Favorite V-Neck T-Shirt in White

also wearing: High Rise Drapey Soft Seamed Wide-Leg Jeans (30) // Textured Crewneck Sweater (M) // Paul Green Hadley (8)???

This is a great budget-friendly option. The fit is classic—not too boxy, not too tight—and it has a clean trim at the neckline, similar to the AllSaints Anna, but it’s not as sheer. It comes in tons of colors and runs true to size, though I’d suggest sizing up if you’re in between. I have it in a medium.

EVEREVE Teddy Washed V-Neck Tee in Acid Wash

also wearing: LEFT: old AG jean shorts (similar wash here) // Miz Moos sandals c/o (39) // NAGHEDI tote, RIGHT: Gap Factory hoodie (S) // MOTHER jeans (29) // VEJA sneakers (39) // NAGHEDI hobo // Celine sunnies

This one has a worn-in softness that’s hard to beat, and I love the seaming details and subtle cap sleeve. It’s 23″ long, perfect for wearing untucked; and it has just a hint of shape through the waist for a flattering fit.

This tee runs true to size, but you can size up for a looser fit. I went with the medium. It comes in this black acid wash and a pretty adobe rose.

Best Classic Tees

These are the non-v-neck styles I’ve been reaching for lately—crewnecks, scoop necks, and a few elevated basics that can look casual or polished, depending on how you wear them.

LOFT Modern Wedge Tee

also wearing: Rocky Two Pocket Utility jacket (M) // Sanctuary Marine crops at Nordstrom, on sale at Bloomingdales (30) // Paul Green Hadley (8)

This dressier tee is made from a soft cotton-modal blend (60% cotton, 40% modal) with a nice weight to it—it’s not as sheer as some. It has a round neckline, cap sleeves, and a classic fit that follows your shape without clinging. My black/white stripe is starting to sell out, but the solid versions come in a bunch of colors and are fully stocked. This tee runs a bit big; I have the small, but probably could’ve sized down.

AllSaints Stevie Cotton T-Shirt in Grey Marl and Optic White

also wearing: similar Frame Le Easy Flare (29) // Franco Sarto Alexandria booties // All Saints Half Moon crossbody, RIGHT: KUT Matilda jacket, sold out (option) // Franco Sarto Alexandria booties

This tee is more fitted than most of the ones featured here, with a classic crew neckline and a subtle rib to the soft, 100% organic cotton knit. It’s a great in-between option when you want something with shape but not too tight. Just a heads-up: it runs very small—I actually went up to a large in this one!

Gap Factory Ribbed Crewneck T-Shirt in Grey

also wearing: GF denim jacket (S) // GF barrel jeans (S) // Gola Viper (7.5) // knot earrings

A budget-friendly alternative to the AllSaints Stevie, this soft ribbed knit tee has a straight, easy fit with short sleeves and a classic crew neckline. It runs true to size, but I’d recommend sizing up if you’re in between.

Sanctuary West Side Tee in White

also wearing: Splendid Diana French Terry Blazer (S) // Citizens Palma (29) // Paul Green Hadley (8) // similar belt // similar camera bag // LAGOS earrings // Anna Beck necklace // Jenny Bird bangle // AWAY The Bigger Carry-On // Goyard tote (option)

Fluttery sleeves and a scoop neckline give this super soft tee a slightly dressier look, and the breathable cotton jersey feels great on. It pairs well with all my jeans when I want something simple but not too plain, and it layers nicely, too. It’s a little longer than some of the other tees featured here and has a relaxed fit. Size up if you’re in between sizes—I have it in a medium.

Z Supply Camino Top

also wearing: Splendid Dre Cardigan (S) // PAIGE Anessa – over 25% off (29) (budget option) // similar belt // Veronica Beard Via (8) (budget option) // similar bag

This one has a similar silhouette to the Sanctuary tee, but with a more classic crew neckline, a slightly shorter length, and a more substantial fabric. I really like it, but it runs very small—I sized up to a large.

Also, do not put it in the dryer. Mine shrunk, and I had to pass it on, but I’m considering ordering another and being sure to always lay it flat to dry.

J.Crew New Relaxed Linen T-Shirt in Perfect Stripe Navy Natural

also wearing: Gap Factory Denim shorts (29) // GOLA Viper (7.5) //  similar camera bag

Made from 100% linen with a boxy fit and a shorter 22″ length, this tee is perfect for wearing untucked with jeans or shorts for a laid-back vibe. It comes in a bunch of solid colors and several striped options, and it runs true to size—though I’d size up if you’re in between. I have the medium, and it fits perfectly, so I’ll be sure never to put it in the dryer.

Best Sleeveless Styles (Tanks & Muscle Tees)

Tanks and muscle tees are perfect for the hottest days or for layering under jackets and cardigans. I look for styles that aren’t too clingy and have wide enough straps to wear with a regular bra.

EVEREVE Sarina V Neck Tank

also wearing: similar FRAME Le Easy Flare (29) // similar Birks (39) // Capital Z bag c/o (clear option) // YSL sunnies // similar silver hoops // station necklace // Yurman bracelet

This first one feels a little more elevated than your typical tank. The v-neckline and wider straps create a flattering shape, and the gusset under the armholes keeps it bra-friendly. It looks great on its own or layered under a jacket. It runs true to size—I have it in a small.

Z Supply Elin Tank in Black Stripe

also wearing: Athleta Brooklyn Heights cargo pants (6) // Paul Green Hadley (8) // EVEREVE utility jacket (M) // On Cloud sneakers (9) // AWAY The Everywhere Bag // AWAY The Medium

For a more casual option, this classic scoop tank has a fun contrasting trim and is made from a soft, stretchy blend (50% cotton, 49% modal, 1% spandex). It has a nice weight to it, so it’s not as clingy as some ribbed fabrics, and I really like the 23″ length—I don’t feel the need to tuck it. I’ve worn this with everything from joggers to denim shorts—it’s super easy to throw on and go.

EVEREVE Dessa Muscle Tee in Bright Pink

also wearing: KUT Lana c/o (S) // AG Mari (30) // Veronica Beard slides (8) // Vineyard Vines shorts (also at Nordstrom & on sale at Bloomingdale’s) (8) // VEJA sneakers (39) // NAGHEDI hobo // Anna Beck necklace (option)

This muscle tee has a flattering v-neck and just enough structure to give it shape without feeling stiff. The 100% cotton knit is substantial yet soft, and the armholes aren’t too big—a common issue with muscle tees. I also like the 22″ length, which works well untucked. It also comes in black and white, and it runs TTS or size up if in between. I have a medium.

EVEREVE Nora Muscle Tee in Red

also wearing: LEFT:  MOTHER Insider (29) // Beek flip flops (8) // NAGHEDI tote, RIGHT: EVEREVE Camp Jacket (M) // MOTHER Insider (29) // VEJA Esplar (39) // similar belt // silver hoops // NAGHEDI hobo

Another muscle tee from EVEREVE, the Nora is similar to the Dessa but features a crew neckline and about an extra inch of length. I really like the raglan cap sleeves and the subtle shaping through the waist—it gives it a flattering, easy fit. This one comes in a bunch of great colors and neutrals; the red I’m wearing has a slight orange undertone, which I love for spring and summer. It runs pretty true to size and is definitely a bit roomier than the Dessa. I went with a small in this one.

Faherty Sunwashed Slub Muscle Tank in White

also wearing: Faherty Stretch Terry Short (8) // similar sandals

This is a nice, thick muscle tank with a textured slub finish made from organic cotton. It has a classic crew neckline, a straight fit, and a subtle seamed shoulder detail that adds a little interest. At 22″ long, it’s the perfect length to leave untucked with mid- to high-rise pants and shorts. I’m very much in between sizes on this one, but I kept the small. I’m going to try to remember not to put it in the dryer!

EVEREVE Alicia Tie Dye Tank

also wearing:  PAIGE Leenah Ankle (29) // Splendid Row (8)

And to wrap things up, this tie-dye tank is a fun, colorful option for when I want to mix things up. The fit is relaxed, the material is super soft, and it’s perfect for casual days when you just want something easy and light. It runs true to size—I went with the medium so I can throw it in the dryer.

Whether you’re refreshing your spring wardrobe or just looking to upgrade your everyday basics, a good tee or tank makes all the difference. These are the ones I’ve personally worn and loved—some for years, others new to my rotation this season. From budget-friendly staples to splurge-worthy favorites, there’s truly something here for every style and price point. Let me know if you’ve tried any of these or if you have a favorite I should check out!