White tees are my summer hero piece. The simple, unfussy staple solves all my dressing woes, because I know I can wear it with everything. Come fall and winter, though, I reach for white tees less and less—for the obvious reason that it’s a bit too cold—and instead, repeat-wear the equally unfussy essential Viola Davis just styled in the most elaborate way.

Viola Davis.

Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Davis attended a Swarovski event in Hollywood, and naturally, the night was full of sparkle, including that glitzy necklace and long, dangling earrings that were the main star of her look. However, my mind went to the most practical part of her look—and that’s why her black turtleneck bodysuit immediately caught my eye. I just wore a similar one, and I know I’ll be wearing it again soon. It’s simple! It’s timeless! It looks so chic!

Quince Cotton Cashmere Ribbed Turtleneck Bodysuit

Quince

Intimissimi High Collar Bodysuit in Modal Ultralight with Cashmere

intimissimi

Davis wore her black bodysuit with a sheer skirt with exaggerated front pleats—think: ballerina vibes but make it black tie. She rounded out the look with black booties that peaked through the sheer hem. Of course, Davis went a dressier route styling her black bodysuit, but it’s proof of how versatile it really is. She wore it for a black-tie event, while I styled mine yesterday with jeans and heels. See? Versatile.

Bodysuits are especially practical for this time of year because they layer easily; style one under a sweater, with a leather jacket, or wear it on its own. Then, throw on the accessories, if you please. It is, like a white tee, a blank canvas with which to build out an outfit. No wonder other celebs like Nicole Kidman and Demi Lovato have also worn it in the past.

Get the Look:

Reformation Cordelia Knit Bodysuit
Shop now: $98; thereformation.com

Commando Ballet Long-Sleeve Turtleneck Bodysuit
Shop now: $138; nordstrom.com

Marcella Maven Mock Neck Long-Sleeve Jersey Bodysuit
Shop now: $104; nordstrom.com

Skims Long-Sleeve Turtleneck Bodysuit
Shop now: $88; nordstrom.com

Aritzia Original Contour Turtleneck Bodysuit
Shop now: $58; artizia.com

Clyque Orlee Bodysuit
Shop now: $88; clyquethelabel.com