Casual

Tulip Sleeve Tee

When I was living in NYC, I was working long hours at my regular job and then pulling late nights working on my blog. I was trying to make as much money as I could, save as much as possible, and to spend the very bare minimum. At one point, I seriously considering starting a recipe blog with everything you could make with eggs + bread, as those were two of my major food groups because it was super inexpensive. (And there’s a lot you can do with an egg and one piece of bread, trust me. I did it all that first year!)

A white tee and denim are the fashion equivalent!

I have always been a big fan of a white tee. In fact, I may be one of its biggest supporters. Over the years, I have stocked up on what has to be the most basic, but essential, closet staples. This is my favorite basic short sleeve white t-shirt and this is my favorite long sleeve. With such a simple “base” for an outfit, you can tone up (or down) your accessories for an endless number of looks. Add a blazer or a statement necklace or a vest. Wear with heels or ballet flats or even a comfy pair of sneaks.

Carly Heitlinger

This white t-shirt quickly became one of my favorites. The sleeves are a little (read: impossible) to get into a coat, so I can’t wear it if I’m going to be outside in the winter for prolonged time outside. But when I’m ducking from my car to a coffee shop? An oversized wrap or coat draped over my shoulders does the trick! (We’ve also been pretty lucky with one or two “warmer” days a week. 🙏🏻)

Tulip Sleeve Shirt

They describe the sleeves as tulips– it’s like an ultra feminine take on the bell sleeve. Could not love it more if I tried.

How to Style a White Shirt

Lorca Coffee Shop Carly the Prepster Tuckernuck    White Bell Sleeve Shirt

White T-Shirt (c/o) // Jeans (c/o) // Tote (similar option under $50) // Booties (on sale!) // Similar Bracelet (another option under $100) // Similar Necklace (similar option with cubic zirconia under $40) // Sunglasses

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31 Comments

Cristina - Memories of the Pacific

I love the analogy, Carly. You are so funny 🙂
I love basic white tees with a twist like yours. I’m not a fan of plain ones because I can’t pull them off. I think that they look amazing on models but I need something with ruffles or tulip sleeves to look good on me.

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Stevie

Your hair looks gorgeous in that second photo! And this entire outfit is so cute and casual.

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Teresa

Hi Carly- how long are the sleeves on this bell sleeve tee? From the photo it looks like they are bracelet length on you?

Thanks

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carly

The photo with the bag is accurate. It appears longer when my elbow is bent (like when I’m seated at the table on the computer).

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Angel

I would love to read your laundry tips! I always need a new white tee after a month of wear because they never stay white, especially the under arms 😑

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Byrd of Passage

This is so super cute! I love bell sleeves and that blouse is no exception! Keep up the lovely photographs!

xx Byrdie
http:/byrdofpassage.wordpress.com/

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Alina

If there are any ladies who want this look for less, I just bought an almost identical version in both white and burgundy at Walmart… $15 each!

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Olga

I LOVE the white top! I am always hesitant about wearing white. Aside from a basic white T shirt, I never purchase any purely white items because I feel like they wash me out. Will have to make an exception for this top!

Olga
http://www.littlethingsolga.com

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Annie

Oh my gosh, I love plain tees! Also, would you do a post on the eggs and bread recipe? Would LOVE to know your recipes, as I’m currently going through a situation similar to what you described.

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Barbara

You need to use your influence with Tuckernuck to get them to add plus sizes. Their clothes are darling but not for plus sizing. Thanks

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carly

They use wholesalers so they don’t dictate the sizes, but do you have any favorite lines that carry plus sizes? I can definitely send suggestions their way!

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