Graphics are kind of our thing, and we wear them pretty much constantly.
See our guide for finding and styling your new favorite graphic tees!

The Ultimate Graphic Tee


A great graphic tee isn't just a wardrobe staple—it's a form of self-expression. Whether you're going for a bold statement or a subtle nod to your favorite band, this guide will provide you with creative ways to style your graphic tees. From classic pairings to unexpected mixes, get ready to elevate your tee game with our top style tips and inspirational looks.

What is a Graphic Tee?


A graphic tee is a t-shirt that features a printed design, image, or text on the front, back, or both sides. These designs can range from simple logos or slogans to intricate artwork or illustrations. Graphic tees have become a fashion staple that we can’t live without.

The origins of the graphic tee can be traced back to the 1960s and 1970s when counterculture movements and political activism embraced t-shirts as a canvas for self-expression. Band merch and protest slogans were among the first graphic tees to gain popularity. As the decades passed, graphic tees evolved into a versatile fashion statement, reflecting pop culture trends, artistic movements, and personal styles.

Now, graphic tees have become an everyday part of fashion, with designers and brands constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. From vintage-inspired designs to cutting-edge streetwear, graphic tees are in every corner of the fashion world. They have become a way for individuals to showcase their interests and personalities through their clothing choices.

Types of Graphic T-Shirts


· Band + Music Graphic Tees: These graphic tees show off album covers, band logos, or tour designs, acting as wearable keepsakes.

· Art + Design Graphic Tees: For those who love fashion and art. These shirts are made by designers and artists, showing off special and eye-catching designs that turn a simple tee into a stylish art piece.

· Brand + Logo Graphic Tees: Featuring famous brand logos or fashion labels, these tees let you show off your favorite brands. They range from high-end designer logos to streetwearbrands, making them versatile for various looks.

· Sports Graphic Tees: Rep your favorite team or athlete with a sports graphic tee. From classic team logos to memorable sports moments, these shirts are great for adding a sporty edge to your outfit.

· Movies + TV Graphic Tees: These tees feature iconic characters, quotes, or scenes. They let you share your love for your favorite shows while adding a fun, pop-culture twist to your look.

· Cropped Graphic Tees: Fun and modern, cropped graphic tees go well with high-waisted pants or skirts. They help create a stylish look while letting you show off your favorite brands or messages.

· Oversized Graphic Tees: Big and comfy, oversized graphic tees can be worn as dresses or paired with bike shorts. You can also layer them with jackets for a cool look. They are flexible in creating both casual and bold styles.

· Long Sleeve Graphic Tees: Great for colder days or layering, long sleeve graphic tees keep the fun designs of a normal t-shirt but add warmth with the sleeves. They are perfect for creating layered looks.

How to Style Graphic Tees


Depending on where you're going and your personal taste, you can either dress up graphic tees or keep it casual. The trick to getting the graphic tee look just right is to mix and match colors well, pick a tee that fits you just right, and make sure the tee design matches your overall look.

When picking colors, look at the main colors in the tee and think about how they go together or stand out against the rest of your clothes. A bright graphic tee can be the main attraction in a simple outfit, adding a splash of color to an understated look. On the other hand, a more muted graphic tee can go well with bolder pants or accessories to create an interesting fit.

When choosing the perfect graphic tee, consider what you like to wear, where you're going, and what you want to say with your outfit. A graphic tee is a great way to show off your personality, so pick one that makes you feel good and matches your style.

Styling Oversized Graphic Tees


Oversized graphic tees are super versatile and can be worn in several ways depending on the look you're going for. A popular way to wear an oversized graphic t-shirt is like a dress. Cinch it at the waist with a belt to add definition to your silhouette or tie the bottom part in a knot for a more form-fitting look.

For a laid-back and comfortable outfit, throw on a big graphic tee with some leggings or biker shorts. This combo allows you to embrace the relaxed vibe of the tee, while still looking put together. Toss on a pair of New Balances or slides and your OOTD is made.

If you're going for a more edgy look, try layering an oversized graphic tee over a snug long-sleeve top or beneath a leather jacket or flannel. This mix adds layers to your look, giving off a casual yet pulled-together feel. Finish the look with Dr. Martens or chunky trainers for a bit of street flair.

Styling Cropped Graphic Tees


Cropped graphic tees are an excellent way to bring a bit of edginess to your style while still looking casual and effortless. A popular way to wear a cropped graphic tee is with high-waisted jeans or skirts. This look enhances your waist and makes your legs look longer. For a classic style, match your cropped tee with high-waisted baggy jeans or a denim skirt. Play around with different washes and distressed textures to give your outfit some unique flair.

Another way to style a cropped graphic tee is by layering it beneath overalls. This playful look is perfect for channeling your inner child while still looking stylish. Pair a cropped tee with ripped overalls for an edgy look we love.
As the weather warms up, a cropped graphic tee is the perfect addition to beach outfits. Pair your tee with a flowy wrap skirt or a pair of denim shorts for a laid-back, boho vibe. You can also layer a cropped tee over a swimsuit for a cute and practical cover-up. Don't be afraid to experiment with bold prints and bright colors to embrace summer vibes.

Layering Graphic Tees


Layering graphic tees is a fun way to bring depth and a unique touch to your look. One approach is to wear a graphic tee under a slip dress. This combination pairs the laid-back vibe of the tee with the elegant shape of the slip dress. Throw on combat boots or chunky sneakers for a look that’s effortlessly chic.

Another way to layer a graphic tee is beneath a button-up shirt or blazer. Leave a few buttons undone on the shirt or blazer to let the graphic peek through, adding a touch of personality and style.

When the colder months roll around, don't pack away your graphic tees. They’re great for layering and keeping warm in style during the winter months. Try wearing a graphic tee under a chunky knit sweater or cardigan. The graphic design will add a fun pop of color or pattern to your winter look. You can also layer a graphic tee under a denim or leather jacket for a cool, edgy vibe.

What Bottoms to Wear with Graphic Tees


Denim is the classic choice when it comes to pairing bottoms with graphic tees. From skinny jeans to distressed cutoffs, denim offers a versatile and effortless way to complement your graphic tee. Straight-leg jeans can create a sleek and streamlined look, while distressed or boyfriend-style jeans lend a more relaxed and edgy vibe.

Skirts are another excellent option for styling graphic tees. Mini skirts can add a flirty and youthful touch, especially when paired with a cropped graphic tee. Midi skirts, on the other hand, offer a more sophisticated and polished look, perfect for dressing up a graphic tee for a night out or a casual work environment. For a boho or summer-ready ensemble, consider pairing your graphic tee with a flowy maxi skirt.
Trousers and wide-leg pants are a modern and sophisticated choice for graphic tee outfits. High-waisted trousers can create a sleek and elongated silhouette, while wide-leg pants offer a relaxed and effortless vibe. Both options can elevate a graphic tee from casual to chic, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.

Graphic tees are versatile options that let you show off what you're all about while allowing endless outfit opportunities. Whether you're into baggy oversized tees, cropped ones, or like to pile on layers, graphic tees are like a blank canvas for your looks. Don't be shy about mixing things up with different textures, colors, and shapes to create outfits that are totally you.

Check out the huge selection of graphic tees at Urban Outfitters and get ready for endless possibilities to express your style. Find the perfect fit in our collection of graphic tees, which range from the latest trends to timeless classics.