3 Surprisingly Chic Graphic-Tee Outfits

This article was last updated on April 16, 2022

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If the word “graphic tee” makes you think of bargain-bin diving at the mall for ill-fitting $5 shirts, you’re not alone. It’s hard for us to not associate the phrase with tacky logo tees, shoddy screenprints, and “graphics” that advertise the cheesiest event to ever take place in Faux City, U.S.A. Graphic tees for the first day of seventh grade? Totally fine. But, for your first date with your latest flame? Or your first big weekend trip this summer with your clique? Actually…a graphic tee works, too — but it’s time for an update. 

The modern graphic tee is cut generously, drapes seductively, and features illustrations chic enough to hang on your walls. Wear them tucked into structured skirts or loose over baggy trousers; the new graphic tee will make you look like a cover girl, not a mall rat. Scroll through for three sophisticated ways to wear them.

Casual Friday — On the one day of the week when you can get away with fun heels and (tailored) shorts, don’t be scared to go casual with a T-shirt. Layer a structured vest on top that hits you mid-derriere, and you’ll look good for HR and some R&R later. 

Friend of Mine Leather Vest, $398, available at The Grand Social; Jimmy Choo Sandals, $1,050. available at Net-a-Porter; Uniqlo E.M.Happy Project T-Shirt, $9.90, available at Uniqlo; Reiss Clara Jay Shorts, $126, available at Reiss; Juicy Couture Perforated Shopper, $139.99, available at Juicy Couture.

City Slicker — For a long day of walking, sightseeing, and general errand running, a T-shirt is a no-brainer. But, if you choose your other pieces carefully (a walkable flat sandal, a cropped pair of slouchy trousers, a backpack that’ll turn heads…), your tee will look sharp, not schlubby. 

Topshop Photo Dove Tee, $32, available at Topshop; Cole Haan Baily Sandal, $84.95, available at Cole Haan; Alexander Wang Pleated Trouser, $550, available at La Garconne; C Wonder Bold Cat Eye Sunglasses, $78, available at C Wonder; Black Town Backpack, $495, available at Boticca.

Date Night — There are few things as sexy as a T-shirt (worn right, of course). Tuck in a paper-thin tee into an equally graphic skirt, and keep your leg line long with a strappy heel in a natural hue. 

Marni T-Shirt, $270, available at Marni; Lipsy Sateen Skirt, $26.68, available at Lipsy London; BCBGenerationHandbag, $48, available at Macy’s; ASOS Love Rocks Fluro Earring, $50.91, available at ASOS; Forever 21 Raffia Sandals, $32.80, available at Forever 21.

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