Baby Tees Can Be Chic Too—7 Outfits That Prove My Point
These looks are perfect any time.
Listen—it's too hot to be wearing a lot of the trends we're seeing these days. The only reasonable item to style in this heat is a baby tee. What makes one so great to have in your closet? It's reliable, lightweight, and just about the same as a regular T-shirt—aside from the fact that it's cropped. This is the perfect item to stay cool this summer.
A T-shirt isn't always deemed chic, and that’s totally understandable. It's a laid-back, casual item usually worn without much thoughtfulness, which is part of its allure. A baby tee, on the other hand, can be chic. You just have to style it the right way. Think long shorts, trousers, and sleek flats to make this basic look elevated and sophisticated. It's easier than you think. I discovered some stunning, copy-worthy looks that will take your baby tee from casual to event-ready. Keep scrolling to shop each chic look.
With Taffeta Pants
When you really want to dress up a baby tee without trying too hard, all you need to do is style it with a pair of taffeta pants. The shiny finish of these pants will make your baby tee look intentional and fun rather than unthoughtful. If you really want to dress up your look, add a pair of beaded sandals.
Shop the Look
With Polka-Dot Capris
We all know that capris are a polarizing trend, but even they can look ultra chic with a baby tee. You'd think that this type of outfit would look too casual, but with a pair of black leather flats, there's a perfect balance of playfulness and elegance. Let your polka-dot capris be the star of the show, and wear either a white or black baby tee.
Shop the Look
With Genie Pants
Genie pants are perfect for summer. They're breathable, simple, and easy to style. They look especially chic with a baby tee. The tiny-top, big-pants combination is always my go-to when I don't want to overthink an outfit. Just throw on a baby tee in a hue you desire with a pair of roomy black genie pants. Add a pendant necklace to accessorize.
Shop the Look
In a Layered Look
I know layering during peak summer sounds a little wild, but layering lightweight baby tees is such a fun way to express your personal style. I love seeing this type of outfit IRL. Try black and white baby tees over one another or any other color combination you see fit. Then slip on a pair of baggy culotte shorts for a breathable look. Add a fun accessory, like a bucket hat, then complete your look with a pair of Mary Jane heels.
Shop the Look
With Cargos
Cargo pants and baby tees are both quite casual, so try styling them with a pair of strappy pink sandals or any pair of vibrant-hued sandals for a fun contrast. Keep your pants a classic olive green as a base, and explore from there. Whether you want to wear a white or gray baby tee is totally up to you.
Shop the Look
With Long Shorts
I'm a big fan of the long-shorts trend, and I know it's not going anywhere this summer. They look especially chic styled with a simple baby tee. Try to keep a dark color palette like the outfit below. Start with a black baby tee and long gray shorts, and for shoes, stick with black slingback thong sandals. You won't regret how chic this outfit combination will make you look.
Shop the Look
With Khaki Trousers
Khakis are so back. The once-dated trend is now mainstream in the coolest way. A baby tee styled with khaki pants actually looks really cute if you add a pair of white flip-flops to make the outfit a little more eye-catching. Accessorize further with a shoulder bag or clutch.
Shop the Look
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognizable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality, and real-world wearability.
We regularly try pieces ourselves, including everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes; speak to external experts and fashion insiders; and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels, so you can feel confident in every recommendation.
Kerane Marcellus is a New York-based writer. She joined the Who What Wear team in 2025 after writing for Essence Magazine and freelancing for a number of other arts and culture publications. Fashion is a form of expression that she encourages everyone to take part in. There is no right or wrong in getting dressed! When she's not writing, she's reading in the park or gallery hopping in the city.