Let’s face it: If you’re anything like me, you’ve been to your fair share of shows, and you’ve collected your fair share of band shirts. Maybe most of yours ended up in Goodwill, like mine did, or maybe you have them lying around in drawers, hoping to be worn one day. I have a couple band shirts I keep around for nostalgic reasons, and even I won’t give them away. Besides being worn over leggings and a sports bra to yoga, however, none of my band tanks see much light.
I appreciate a good challenge, in everything from the books I read to the men I like, and wearing band shirts is a good one. I don’t like wearing plain jeans or shorts and I really feel like that’s the only way most people know how to wear band shirts. So, why not change it up and reinvent this staple? There are limitless opportunities.
First and foremost, you’ll need a band shirt.
I chose this The Air I Breathe tank top that is soft and comfy.
Let’s begin.
One: The Classic (with a Twist)
Everyone wears band tanks with shorts, right? Well, that doesn’t mean you can make it different. Grab some non-denim shorts, some thigh high socks., your favorite combat boots and you’re good to go. If your tank or shirt is super long, you can gather it on one side and tie it with a hair tie and tuck it in the side of the shorts. I threw on my leather jacket and my trusty oversized purse to add a little bit of flair to the simple outfit. The key to keeping this shirt new and fresh is being creative. Don’t be afraid to dress up your shirt!
Two: Leggings
Throw on some high waisted leggings, a clutch and some heels and you’re golden. It’s fun to dress up super comfy tank tops. If you have a well-dressed boyfriend, you have even better prospects; steal his shirt and you’ll be looking and feeling your best. I like that the leggings are high-waisted and the shirt is tucked in; it keeps it a bit more feminine, and keeps your legs looking long and lean. Add some bright metal, like this gold studded clutch, and you’ll be making a statement wherever you are.
Three: Mini Me
Okay, much like wearing leggings, throwing on a bodycon skirt and some heels is a good way to dress up your band shirt. Try wearing an oversized sweater if you’re wearing a loose cotton tank or shirt that you’ve tied at the side. Add a simple little purse and you’re ready to hit the Nick theatre or happy hour.
Four: The Kitchen Sink
Literally layer everything you can under your shirt. This very obviously depends on the shirt and style you have, but I have faith in you; you can make it work. I layered my tank top over a semi sheer netted asymmetrical dress, added some Dolce Vita ankle boots, a chunky gold necklace and a delicate quilted bag. Try wearing your shirt or tank over a simple dress or layering it over a collared shirt and under a leather jacket (so the collar peeks through on top of the tank but you don’t have the different sleeve length since you’re wearing the leather jacket). Honestly layering is amazing, and if I had a beanie I would definitely be wearing it with this.
Five: The Printed Jean
Just cause wearing a band tank with plain jeans is boring, doesn’t mean wearing it with printed jeans is. Find a color in your shirt that is in the pattern of the jeans that you’re wearing so the outfit flows. Throw on some wicked boots, maybe a fitted cardigan and your favorite purse and you’ll be lookin’ fierce.
The key to reinventing a piece of clothing is thinking outside the box. Don’t be scared to break any fashion “rules;” remember, rules were meant to be broken.
Namaste,
Gabriela Lorraine
