Graphic tees are a classic wardrobe staple that have been been popular in mainstream fashion for over fifty years. They are worn by people of all ages, in different walks of life, from different places, cultures, families, groups, etc. Although they’re a main-stay, graphic tees feel fresh because people continue to re-invented them with new fabric technology, original art, new cuts and detailing, and new messaging. Just the opposite is true as well— vintage tees are worn-in gems marking past history and elevating modern outfits. So whether you opt for the new or the old, graphic tees make any outfit more interesting!

Why I Love Graphic Tees:

Graphic tees are one of my favorite things in my wardrobe, and here are some of the reasons why:

• They are a blank canvas for original art. A blank t-shirt is like a blank sheet of paper to draw on or a blank canvas to paint on. The possibilities are endless to create unique and original designs that people can wear around.
• They mark places, memories, and experiences. If you’re the nostalgic type, graphic tees are reminders. They can be from schools you’ve attended, team sports you were a part of, groups you were a member of, places you’ve visited, concerts you attended, causes you stood up for, places you worked, events you attended, etc.
• They are comfortable, interesting, and can be worn all year long. You can throw them on alone in the hot months or layered in cooler weather. I love that they are comfortable and that they add interest in each outfit they’re a part of.

How to Wear Graphic Tees:

• Juxtaposed. My style is pretty casual, and I love juxtaposition. Graphic tees brings a casual vibe to whatever outfit they’re incorporated in, and I like pairing them with items that are traditionally more dressy, tailored, or elevated in some way. This creates a juxtaposed look through the contrasting style elements, which I think makes for interesting outfits. Some examples of this would be: layering a graphic tee under a blazer, pairing it with a midi skirt, wearing a graphic tee with tailored pants/shorts, etc.
• Casual & Classic. Graphic tees are a wonderful throw-on-and-go item. They work well on their own or layered, making them a year-round wardrobe staple. You can easily pair them with other casual garments for laid-back, classic looks. Some examples of this would be: pairing a graphic tee with your favorite jeans or denim shorts, or wearing a graphic tee with some joggers and sneakers.

Graphic Tee Outfit Ideas:

Here are some outfit ideas with some of my current favorite graphic tees from my wardrobe:

1.) Graphic Tee + Denim Shorts + Slide Sandals

Tee | Shorts (I sized up one size) | Earrings | Sandals

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Tee (old – similar, similar) | Shorts (similar same brand) | Earrings | Bag | Sandals (I sized up 1/2 size)

This is a classic, summer outfit combo, and one of my favorites— graphic tee, denim cut-offs, and easy slide sandals. The interest in these outfits is in the graphics, the distressing on the first pair of shorts, the color contrast with the second pair of shorts, and shapes of both pairs of sandals.

2.) Graphic Tee + Belted Linen Shorts

Tee (I sized down one size) | Shorts (old – this year’s version) | Earrings | Bag | Sandals (sold in whole sizes so I sized up 1/2 size)

Pairing a graphic tee with a tailored pair of shorts adds nice style contrast. I love how this look is light, and almost neutral, with the pop of blue from the graphic on the tee.

3.) Graphic Tee + Skirt

Tee | Skirt (old from Abercrombie – similar) | Denim Jacket | Sandals (I sized up 1/2 size)

A lot of graphic tees have words but some, like this one, have pictures only. I first saw this tee on my friend Andrea. I love how it is subtle and neutral— a versatile piece that can be incorporated into so many different outfits. Here, it brings a relaxed feel to a midi skirt and sandals.

4.) Graphic Tee + Denim Shorts + Sneakers

Tee (old from Imogene + Willie – current options) | Shorts | Bag (old from ABLE – similar, similar) | Sneakers

Tee (old from Imogene + Willie – current options) | Earrings | Bag (old from ABLE – similar, similar, similar) | Shorts | Shoes

A super classic combo— a graphic tee, denim cut offs, and sneakers. You can’t go wrong with this summer look, it’s timeless and comfortable.

5.) Graphic Tee + Shorts + Blazer

Sweater Blazer (I sized down one size) | Tee | Shorts (I sized down two sizes) | Glasses | Earrings | Bag (old from ABLE – similar) | Sandals

Layering a graphic tee under a blazer is one of my favorite ways to wear it. It mixes a more structured, tailored piece with a casual tee— serious mixed with playful.

6.) Graphic Tee + Jeans

Tee (old from Imogene + Willie – current options) | Earrings | Jeans | Bag (old from ABLE – similar, similar, similar))

Another classic combo that you can’t go wrong with— jeans, a graphic tee, and sandals. This look feels updated because of the cut of the balloon jeans (reviewed here), and slide sandals.

What Brands Have the Best Graphic Tees:

There are countless brands of graphic tees, so how do you find good ones? There are a few factors to consider like, style/fit, fabric content, price, quality construction, etc.

Premium Graphic Tees:

Madeworn, Mother

Graphic Tees Under $100:

Anine Bing, Clare V., Aviator Nation

Graphic Tees Under $75:

Imogene + Willie, Chaser, Daydreamer

Graphic Tees Under $50:

ABLE, Abercrombie, Junkfood, Urban Outfitters, The Bee & The Fox, Girl Dangerous

Graphic Tees Under $25:

H&M, Aerie, Target

Where to Buy Graphic Tees Online:

These are my favorite website to browse for graphic tees: Revolve, Shopbop, Free People, anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, Nordstrom, H&M

Are you a fan or graphic tees? If so, what is your favorite way to style them? Do you prefer new or vintage and nostalgic tees? I would love to hear from you in the comments below!

P.S. Here are the table and basket you see in all the photos in this post!