In praise of the humble T-shirt

Anine Bing has never been big on trends. Ever since she joined Instagram when the platform was still in its infancy, she became known for her sense of style, teaming simplicity with rock 'n' roll. T-shirts have always been a mainstay of her wardrobe - in fact, she believes that they're the most important piece we own.

It was the late Terry O’Neill who gave the Danish influencer-turned-designer another reason to expand her ever-growing T-shirt collection. His team approached her after discovering that she had one of his original works in her home. They met in London and talked about his work and life, and decided to collaborate on a capsule range, featuring one of his most famed prints - Brigitte Bardot smoking a cigar on the set of The Legend of Frenchie King, in 1971.

"He was amazing, and we just talked about his life and photography," said Bing. "His Bardot print is iconic and it’s been on my mood board since I started the brand. It’s mesmerising and so effortless... her 'I don’t give a shit attitude.' She is who she is, and she doesn’t give a fuck. You just want to be her."

SHOP THE COLLECTION

Brigitte Bardot T-shirt, £99, Anine Bing

Here, Bing talks to us about the power of the T-shirt, why it's such an important piece and how to maximise its sartorial potential.

It's versatile

"A T-shirt goes with anything - you can wear it with a leather jacket or under a blazer. You can dress it up or you can dress it down. I dress it up with a suit, and I dress it down is with denim and sneakers."

It's the ultimate leveller

"Everyone looks good in a T-shirt, and, depending on where you buy them they’re affordable. You can find a cool vintage one for $10 or a super high-end style that costs $500. It's democratic."

I own around 30 T-shirts (although it could be more)

"Is that a lot? I have a collection of vintage T-shirts, then a collection of white T-shirts. They’re so easily stained that I like back-ups. I like them when they’re crisp, and I do know when it's time to get rid of them. I’m pretty good at clearing my closet. If there’s something I haven’t worn in a year, then it’s out."

There's two T-shirts everyone should own

"Everyone should have a white crisp T-shirt with a high neckline, as well as a cool rock ‘n’ roll T-shirt. They add attitude. Some hardcore fans might be mad if you’re not familiar with the music, but I’m not that judgemental. If you like the design or the artwork put it on."

T-shirts have sentimental value

"People might buy a T-shirt at a concert, and it’ll always remind them of that night. I have a couple that I bought at a fleamarket a couple of years ago and they get thinner and thinner, but I love them. I have one vintage holidays vintage T-shirt that I bought when I first moved to LA and I love it."

Wear political T-shirts with pride

"As a brand, we're more inspired by the rock 'n' roll aesthetic, but I like political T-shirts. If they’re used to say something you believe in, something important to you, then they’re great. I love them."

10 perfect white shirts to consider adding to your capsule wardrobe

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