During last year’s Shopbop sales event, I tried out the Ulla Johnson Philo sweater which I had loved on Jennifer Fisher. But I thought it looked comical on me (sort of linebacker-ish) so I returned it. Yet I was really into the puff-sleeve trend (and still am). So I looked on Shopbop for a puff sleeved tee that was not too over the top (ie too puffy), and I found the ALC Kati tee. It looked like exactly what I wanted! Well fast forward a year and it’s one of my favorite tees to throw on when I want to look a little “extra” but not over the top. And I guess it’s a fan favorite since it’s still selling one year later.

I never wrote a review of it when I first got it because tbh ALC isn’t exactly an ethical brand (there’s no details about where their items are made, whether their workers are paid fairly nor where they source their materials). However, this particular Kati tee is made in the US, so that’s at least something. It might also explain the price tag. I know, $135 for a tee (even an extra one) is quite a bit. But I have to say, I wear it pretty often (at least every other week this past year and this is with the pandemic mind you), and that brings the cost per wear down.

Over the past year the top has worn well with minimal fading. I wash the tee in cold water and hang to dry. Nowadays the sleeves feel a little tighter on my arms though I’m pretty sure that’s because I’ve gained weight (as opposed to the top shrinking). When I first bought the top I was worried the puff sleeve trend would go away, but I think it’s actually gaining momentum. It’s the perfect plain black tee with a twist and I plan to get even more wear out of it this year!

P.S. You can see how I paired it with my Agolde 90’s jeans here.