The 12 Best Long-Sleeve Tops to Refresh Your Layering Game

Thought the long-sleeve tee was boring? Think again.

The Essentials Long Sleeve T
(Image credit: Getty)

Welcome to The Essentials, our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.

Too often overlooked, the long-sleeve top is a classic basic that deserves better. Once an invisible layering piece, an item your parents forced you to wear under your favorite t-shirt on cold days, this item could be the MVP of your grown-up wardrobe—if you let it. It's endlessly adaptable, and modern designers have added everything from pleats to voluminous sleeves to give it that extra edge. Keep scrolling for inspiration on how to refresh your long-sleeve collection, whether you're looking to replace your basics or want a new standout piece that goes with everything.

Rachael Noll
Contributor

Rachael is a sustainability-focused fashion writer and creator. She works full-time as the Brand and PR coordinator for Mara Hoffman whilst focusing her writing efforts on covering sustainable fashion for Marie Claire and EcoCult. As an Aussie living in Brooklyn, you'll catch her splitting her time between Sydney & NYC.