Over the years I’ve come to develop a few “fashion” rules for myself… more as guidelines for investing smartly + getting the most wear out of my items. I’ve waisted money more times than I care to admit on items that I only wore a handful of times, mainly because they just didn’t go with my current wardrobe, or lifestyle in general.

One of those rules I have, especially for trendier items, is that I ask myself if I can make at least 3 outfits, with pieces already in my wardrobe, with the item I’m looking to purchase. If the answer is yes, then it’s likely a smarter choice. If the answer is no, then I need to figure out if it’s really worth adding to my closet. There are a few exceptions. For example, a dress for a special occasion. I have a little more wiggle room in those situations.

So, when I was looking to add a tie dye sweatshirt to my closet I spent a lot of time looking for a piece that was more neutral, and on the muted side, as opposed to the brightly colored tie dye options out there. I ended up purchasing two options, this black + white oversized sweatshirt, as well as this blush tie dye sweatshirt. I applied my same rule to both of them and ultimately decided that they fit into my wardrobe nicely… although more in the “statement” making category.

That being said, I decided to style the black + white sweatshirt for you 5 different ways. I compiled this in video format over on instagram, but have simple little mirror selfies to show a few different ways to wear this comfy piece…..

Make it spring appropriate with white denim, a light-wash denim jacket, and white mules. You can easily wear it front tucked, or fully out for an oversized feel.

Love it paired with the Everlane high waisted leggings + my go-to leather jacket. A very simple off duty look.

I wore this exact outfit yesterday… my stretchy high waisted, distressed, black jeans were perfect with the oversized look of the sweatshirt.

The sweatshirt works solo with these AGOLDE jeans + white mules… or you can dress it up slightly with this white crepe blazer that I wore last weekend on our date night…

Annnnd, since we’re heading into the warmer months (Maybe? In some places?) it easily pairs with my favorite cut-offs… you can wear it with white or black slides, or the white mules work as well.