How to style a white tee and black trousers for three different scenarios

If you’ve been feeling uninspired while looking at your closet lately, we don’t blame you. Many of us have been reaching for the same simple pieces, especially those of us that are working from home. While now is a great time to declutter what you don’t wear, it’s also a great time to rediscover what you own and figure out how you can use it in new ways! To show you how to bring new life to your pieces, we challenged Alexis Honce and Erica Wark to a style-off using things they already have in their wardrobe. Both stylists started with a white tee and black trousers and had one minute to add on top for a complete look to match different scenarios submitted by our viewers.

BACKYARD PICNIC AT HOME

When it comes to a backyard picnic, every environment is different. While some may opt for a day-time casual look, others may go a little dressier. For those that prefer something more “every day,” adding a simple button up on top of your white tee is the perfect solution. Living in Canada means there’s often unpredictable weather, so you can also throw a jean jacket over your shoulders if you know you’ll be outside for a long time. If you’d prefer to get a little fancier, a long silk kimono, duster or wrap-up dress can be worn on top of your white tee. For both looks, a simple pair of sunglasses and a sun hat, as well as comfortable shoes, will complete the look. 

GET THE LOOK

Daytime Casual: Tie-hem Blouse; H&M, $29.99 | Madewell Denim Jacket; Nordstrom, $157 | Sunglasses; H&M, 9.99 | Packable Panama Hat; Nordstrom, $35 | Natural Mini Basket Bag; Zara, $25.90

Dressy: Astrid Kimono; Antropologie, $118 | Donddia Leopard Multi; Steve Madden, $70 | Liable Bag; ALDO, $55

AT-HOME DATE NIGHT

You'd be surprised how much of a "wow" factor you can give your basics when incorporating the right pieces. When it comes to date night, there are a variety of looks you can go for. If flirty and fun is your vibe, a bold moto jacket and a conductor hat is a great way to achieve that! You can accessorize with playful touches like a pair of matching heels and a statement bag. For those that prefer an edgier look, a dress black tank can be added on top of your t-shirt then layered with your favourite leather jacket. All black is a fabulous way to tie together an edgy look, especially when you add in a pair of simple pumps!

GET THE LOOK

Flirty: Lucky Lizard Moto Jacket; Hudson's Bay, $149 | Brixton Fiddler Fisherman Cap; Nordstrom, $42 |

Edgy: Satin Effect Tank Top; Zara, $25.90 | Faux Leather Jacket; Zara, $79.90

BACK TO WORK

If you get called back to the office post-pandemic, it might be a difficult transition to put aside your sweatpants. However, building from a white tee for work can be as easy as layering with a bright or bold blazer. If you already have one that's a boyfriend style, you can even add a button-up shirt under the blazer for added depth. For accessories, layered necklaces are always a great addition on top of a white canvas. Paired with your favourite staple bag, you'll go from "at home" to "on-the-go" in no time!

GET THE LOOK

Oversized Blazer; H&M, $99 |