The first time I ever wanted to buy a band t-shirt was in the 8th grade. Up to that point, I had never really been to a concert and the only “cool” t-shirts I owned were old sports themed hand-me-downs from my aunt and uncle. But then I was invited to go with a friend (and her dad, because duh, we were 13), to my first ever concert; a concert that was not Backstreet Boys, or Britney Spears, or some other teenage dream. My first concert was Aerosmith– in all their middle-aged rockin’ glory. I was enamored. I was hooked. And my t-shirt choices would never be the same.
Fashion, much like music, is an art form used for self-expression. And what you wish to reveal to the audience is completely up to you. Should you wish to portray confidence, you might wear a suit. Should you wish to be seen as taller, you don a pair of heels. Should you wish you to be seen as approachable and comfortable, you might throw on your favorite pair of jeans. Should you wish to be seen as cool (but you know, not like you’re trying too hard).. now that’s when I slip on my favorite band t.
Over the years, I’m not ashamed to share that I’ve compiled an embarrassingly large collection of such t-shirts. Johnny Cash, David Bowie, The Who, Aerosmith, Queen, The Rolling Stones– if it’s a band that your Dad likes odds are I have a t-shirt for it. There’s something about a hip, grungy t-shirt that makes me feel instantly trendy. It’s one of those go-to items for me that no matter my mood, I know I will always feel good in. Mixing something so worn and so accessible, with an elevated piece such as a blazer or tailored pair of pants creates the perfect combination of high/low. I once even wore such an outfit to an interview (yes, a ballsy move, perhaps only appropriate when you work in a creative field), but I walked into that interview feeling like ME. I felt confident and sure that I was wholeheartedly presenting who I was- an individual not afraid of playing outside of the lines. That confidence came through, and it was one of the best interviews I ever had.
And here’s the good news. For the first time in a long time, it seems that I’m not alone. The resurgence of the band t can be found everywhere from Zara, to Levi’s, to Nordstrom, to Topshop. My current favorite is this Short-Sleeve Ramones T-Shirt paired with this Two Tone Mini from Zara. But should the music move you, here are a few more favorites.
Lace Ruffle Rocker T TOPSHOP via Nordstrom// Pink Floyd 1980 T via Revolve Clothing// Levi’s X Rolling Stone Authentic Graphic T via Levi’s//
Rock out. Wear you are now.
xx
Natalie
Natalie
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