This is an updated version of a post that was originally published in May 2020.
I like to consider myself a bit of a graphic tee connoisseur. They’re my favorite kind of clothing item to wear, no matter the season. They’re versatile and fun and suitable for all ages, shapes, and sizes!
I remember thinking when I entered my 20’s that graphic tees were no longer appropriate. I was a grown woman and they’re for kids. Boy, was I super wrong on that one. If you really know how to shop for graphic tees, you’ll be able to work them into your current closet with zero effort.
Over the past couple of years, I feel as though I’ve perfected the art of shopping for a graphic tee, and so, naturally, I want to share it with you!
outfit details
similar tee // pants // shoes // similar bag // earrings // similar necklace
5 Things to Consider When Shopping for a Graphic Tee
I like to consider myself a bit of a graphic tee-shopping pro at this point. As a teenager, I basically lived in dELiA*s (does anyone remember that 90’s/00’s brand?) novelty tops, and over time, I discovered some of the best hacks for getting your hands on the perfect graphic tee.
Don’t be afraid to shop the men’s section
Men’s t-shirts are cut in a more boxy shape, and they’re normally longer and softer! If you pick up a smaller size men’s tee, you can wear it tied at the hem, tucked into pants or skirts, or rolled up into your bra’s band as a crop top. If you get a bigger tee, you can use it like a short dress or tunic, or even over biker shorts. I highly recommend the men’s graphic tees at Target and H&M, as well as Urban Outfitters.
Opt for cotton or primarily cotton fabrics
Synthetic materials or lower quality materials often cause the shirt to shrink or warp after washing – even when taking precautions. I’ve had hems twist, prints fade, and serious shrinkage when working with materials like polyester. However, if the top is 100% cotton, while prone to shrinking, if you hand wash and lay flat, or at least following the cleaning instructions, you’re more likely to keep the piece in great shape for an extended period of time.
choose everlasting concepts
This means picking colors that work with your wardrobe long-term (black and white, white with red text, blush pink, etc.). It also means choosing classic pop culture references. I’d be more likely to choose a Queen or Friends tee over Billie Eilish or Rick & Morty. Catch my drift? Also, if you’re going to pick a “band tee,” please, oh please, choose a band you know at least one song by, so you don’t appear naive. And if the phrase on your shirt is in another language, double check the translation! *For instance: my t-shirt says “c’est toi, mon chรฉri,” which roughly translates to, “it’s you, my darling.”
Don’t overspend
This should be a no-brainer, but you do not need to spend more than $50 on a graphic tee. Heck, I don’t think I’ve ever spent more than $25 (unless it’s literally band merchandise I purchased at a concert to support the artist). These kinds of pieces are like filler for your wardrobe. They’re not necessity, they’re often trendy, and it’s likely that you won’t be interested in the particular subject matter on your tee in a year or two. These are not investment pieces, so don’t spend investment piece money!
Shop around and find a favorite retailer
Just like I had dELiA*s in my younger years, I know that H&M is my favorite place to go for all my graphic tees now. I know exactly which size to choose, and which line works best for me. Occasionally I grab a tee from Target, but those are really my favorite spots. I’ve purchased shirts from other stores, only to be disappointed with the fit or quality later on. Once you’ve bought from a couple of places, you can nail down your go-to!
10 Graphic Tees You’ll Love
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Easily Create a Spring Capsule Wardrobe // How to Elevate a Graphic Tee // 4 Classic Fashion Items You Need
Where do you shop for graphic tees? Do you have any shopping tips?
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Lucy says
Some great selections for graphic tees and I love the advice you have given. I do love a graphic tee, it makes an outfit look even better! x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
Eleanor Jones says
Great tips! Going for cotton is a great tip, it’s so much better for your skin and it can be so comfortable too x
Raji says
Thanks for sharing these great tips! I’ve been meaning to pick up a few graphic tees this summer, so this is really useful!
Mariah says
You always have the cutest graphic tees! I love this one with a French saying.
XO
https://mariahcooke.com
Neely Moldovan says
You nailed it! I love the entire outfit! I feel like it can be so tough to find great fitting, cute graphic tee’s!
Darleen says
I definitely think there is a certain way to purchasing graphic tees, and I’m the worse at it! I always find ones that aren’t the best cut or quality of cotton. I’m love these tips! They will come in handy.
Alison says
These are great points for shopping! I really agree with the idea of shopping for lasting trends instead of a trendy concept. That would help get your money’s worth out of the piece for sure. I feel like thrift stores might be a good place to find graphic tees too, if you wanted a retro vibe ๐
Merry Sari says
Love the outfit! I like to shop for graphic tees because they’re so comfortable to wear. Thanks for sharing your tips, gonna remember them when I shop graphic tees later x
Emely Turish says
You canโt go wrong with a graphic tee. I have an oversized โmenโsโ band tee and I love it. I love Nirvana tee you shared!
Elle says
I absolutely LOVE a graphic tee! They are my favourite thing to wear as they go with anything. I especially like them with jeans or cycling shorts! Anything causal is my thing. I actually got the friends graphic tee for Christmas and I love it! Thanks for sharing these Xo
Elle – ellegracedeveson.com
Rach says
You definitely find the most perfect graphic tees. I really like the one you are wearing. I’m so picking about the fit of the tees. I want it loose but not too oversize so that it can slouch perfectly haha. I’ll have to take your advice and check out the men’s section.
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Jessica says
Oh my gosh, I lived in dELiA*s, too! I remember always getting excited when the catalog came in!
I love your tip to shop in the men’s section for graphic tees – I need to start doing that.
Adaleta Avdic says
These are great tips honestly, and I never know how to shop properly for them. I’ve seen people spend hundreds on a specific band tee and it always baffles me if I’m being honest. I do love good tees year round so taking your tips! x
Corinne says
I love that graphic top on you! I don’t have any myself as I’m more of a dress girl haha!
Corinne x
Giulia says
I’ve never been one much for graphic tees–I like ones that have flowers or animals printed on them vs logos or pop culture stuff. I only have a few graphic tees in my wardrobe right now, but perhaps after my pregnancy I can get a few more. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Giulia, tidbitsofcare.com
Lovely says
Graphic tees are wardrobe essentials, and these are fab tips! Love your causal look!
xoxo
Lovely
http://www.mynameislovely.com
Jocelyn says
I love wearing graphic tees more than anything! I do shop in the men’s section, they have the cutest designs ๐ thanks for sharing your tips! Your photos are so pretty and aesthetic, love them! xxx
Deborah says
Yess as a fellow graphic tee enthusiast, they are the best! I always have had good luck finding vintage graphic tees at thrift stores – particularly band tees!
Venus says
Honestly, you can never go wrong with a graphic tee. Especially if you’re always on the go. ๐
Ifรฉoluwa says
I love how eclectic this look is! So comfy. I need to pick one up for myself