It can be hard to say goodbye to a favorite tee or an old shirt you've had forever. Luckily, you don't have to part ways: you can keep your beloved memories, save shopping money,andstay eco-friendly, all while still adding new pieces to your wardrobe. That sounds like a win-win-win-win, doesn't it? That's because it is. Whether you're looking to transform an old closet staple or upgrade something you bought at the thrift store, you'll want to check out these upcycling tips and tricks.

Make Some Cuts to Create a Laced-Up Shoulder

Want something really unique? This lace-up shoulder tee is sure to turn a couple of heads. All you need are some eyelets, lace, and scissors. Make your cuts, attach the eyelets, and run your lace through, and you have a great new blouse for a night out. And this laced-shoulder aesthetic goes with any old t-shirt lying in your closet, whether it's a graphic tee or a plain shirt.

If you're feeling really experimental, you can switch things up with different colored laces or add a couple of knots at the end. Feel free to get as creative as you can with this idea.

Turn Your Favorite Shirt Into Your Favorite Tote Bag

We absolutely love this idea for old shirts, and while it might look daunting at first, it's fairly easy to pull off. It's also really eco-friendly since you can turn just about any old shirt into a tote bag. All you need to do is sew or tie together the bottom edges of your shirt, then trim any extra fabric around the seams to give it a more professional look.

Then, you can cut off the sleeves and cut more depending on how long you want the handles of your tote to be. The best part about this clothing upcycle tip is that you can do it with just about any type of shirt.

Turn a Plain Tee Into a Flirty, Off-The-Shoulder Top

Recycling an old t-shirt into an off-the-shoulder blouse makes for a great DIY project and saves on waste. Take your pick of a patterned shirt or solid-colored tee, and you've got a great shirt that goes with just about anything. All you need is some elastic bands and scissors. Make your cuts, sew a place for your band, and there you have it. That's literally all you need to do.

Just make sure to use a shirt that's not too baggy so that you don't have too many ruffles after you sew your band in, and you're good to go.

Make a Crop Top From an Oversized T-Shirt

Do you or someone you know have an old, oversized t-shirt lying around? Or an oversized button-down? Then consider turning it into a boxy crop top. These are great and super easy to make. All you need to do is cut from the bottom of the shirt, and you have a brand-new crop top. Of course, you'll want to make sure that you cut off enough to get that boxy look we see below.

If you're feeling particularly brave, consider making curved cuts along the bottom or just using a printed t-shirt. Both are great ways to add a little something extra to your crop top.

Add Lace to Glam up an Old Tee

Lace might be out when it comes to home decor, but it can still be combined with clothing for a dreamy look that's great for a night out or a fun lunch. Just find a pattern of lace that you like and cut off a strand long enough to go all the way around the top portion of your shirt. Next, attach it to your shirt by sewing it on or using an iron. But lace at the top isn't the only option.

Lace can also be used on other parts of your shirt for a more elegant look. You could attach it to your sleeves, the bottom of your shirt, or even the sides.

This Adjustable Tank Top Is Perfect for Warmer Days

If you have a really old t-shirt that's been sitting in the closet forever, then why not turn it into a cute tank top? It doesn't require much, just that you make a couple of cuts and do some simple sewing. Cut off your sleeves and the top portion of your shirt. Then sew the extra fabric back on as straps. Oh, and don't forget to add an elastic band.

Turning a tee into a tank top can completely change up its look, so much so that it might surprise you. This also works well with both solid colors and printed tees.

Crossover Back Tee for the Gym or Styled It up for a Night Out

This one requires a bit more work than some of the other items on this list, but the results are more than worth it. After you're done, you'll end up with a unique and stylish crossover back tee that's just at home in the gym as it is on a night out. You'll have to make a couple of different cuts and then sew some fabric back on, making sure to leave the neckband in place.

However, when you finish, you should end up with something like the shirt in this photo. This upcycling idea works with both printed and solid-colored tees.