Piper Gore's Five Rules For Buying The Perfect Tee

Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.

A few weeks ago, designer Piper Gore, formerly of Oliver Rayn, Lucky Brand and Levi's, announced the launch of her own namesake label debuting with a spring/summer 2012 collection for both men and women. Her new line is a mellow adaption of trends and is focused upon basics—namely, the perfect tee. Here, Racked catches up with Gore about her five ways to find, and buy, the perfect tee.

Buy multiples: Once you find the right T-shirt, buy a few in white and then a few in different colors. There's nothing more sexy than a great white tee, but wearing a bright color that works for you can be almost as powerful.

Pay attention to fit and fabric: As with all clothes, fit and fabric is key. With T-shirts, it's what will keep you from looking sloppy, so PAY ATTENTION. Different fits work for all different body types and there isn't just one to go-to. For women, if it's oversized and drapey, it must be a nice light fabric that is fluid. For both guys and girls, I am super partial to a light cotton slub jersey. The slub adds subtle and sophisticated detail.

Explore!: Just because something works for you, don't be afraid to branch out. There are some amazing new lines with some really beautiful silhouettes. Grab a bunch of tees from different brands and take them all into the fitting room with you. Don't be afraid to be a pioneer!

Buy what you wear: If there is one style you wear often, buy a lot of that style. But make sure to add some fun new styles as well. I usually wear our Holly v-neck tee (pictured). It's not too loose and not too tight...just right.

The power of a 'T': Never underestimate a T-shirt. They deserve the same amount of attention as all your other clothes. Tees can be one of the most classic and effortlessly sexy pieces you own.
· Piper Gore [Facebook]