The classic graphic tee has long been a staple in the wardrobes of the fashion-forward since they rose to popularity in the 1950s (yes they’ve been around for that long).
But with the recent renaissance of grungy 90s fashion, graphic t shirts are officially back en vogue and have the celeb tick of approval.
Whether it be a classic band tee nabbed at the merch booth of your most recent concert or a bold artistic statement graphic – the styling possibilities for the simple tee have gone beyond the basic.
In the past, the go-to way to style a graphic tee has been thrown on with a pair of jeans and boots, but as of late, we’ve been seeing innovative ways of wearing the classic piece.
Hailey Bieber caught our attention pairing an oversized style with a pleated black miniskirt elevated with a pair of baby blue flats, while Olivia Rodrigo repped her signature grunge-inspired style with a graphic shirt and tennis skirt worn with chunky loafers.
On the other hand, Taylor Swift and Emily Ratajkowski took a more casual approach by styling their graphic tees with bike shorts and oversized tracksuit pants.
No matter how you’re planning on styling a graphic tee this summer, you’re going to want to add one of these to your wardrobe for a laid-back style that works year after year.
Below we’ve rounded up some of our favourite options on the market to inspire your shopping.
The best graphic tees and shirts to shop in 2023
Oversized Rolling Stones tee, $29.99, Cotton On
We promise we won’t ask you to name five Rolling Stone songs before purchasing this graphic tee. Not only is a band tee the perfect way to share your love for iconic artists and bands, but style one in an oversized manner for that perfect grunge look.
Pull&Bear Short Sleeve Monet t-shirt, $39.99, The Iconic
Wear your art on your sleeve (ha) with this chic graphic tee that depicts an iconic Monet artwork. Style this tee with a pair of tailored suitpants and sneakers for the office or dress it down with shorts on weekends.
Oversized print tee, $24.99, H&M
Spring and summer are your chances to go big and bold with colour, and what better time than now to rep your Beach Boys merch too!
Plus acid wash Spice Girls t-shirt, $36 (usually $60), Boohoo
Spice Fever is officially back thanks to the latest Beckham documentary that solidly confirmed Posh, is the main character. And let’s face it, we’re always up for some 90s Spice Girls merch nostalgia.
Alex Tee Tapas scene, $140, Lisa Says Gah
If you prefer a baby tee fit of graphic shirt, this viral wonder from Lisa Says Gah is a worthy splurge. The seafood tapas scene is also just perfect for embodying that Euro summer energy.
Sofia Coppola UT graphic t-shirt, $24.90, Uniqlo
Uniqlo’s latest collection celebrating the queen of movies that hit us right in the feels, Sofia Coppola, is a must-buy. You can find graphic tees depicting scenes from iconic films like Marie Antoinette, The Virgin Suicides, Lost In Translation and more.
Pre Loved 1994 FIFA World Cup Brazil tee, $129.95, The Iconic
Football fever is certainly not going anywhere and you can get your own slice of the action with this vintage, hand-selected tee from the 1994 World Cup.
The oversized graphic tee, $34.99, Cotton On
For an oversized fit of tee, this slouchy NASCAR racing shirt is the perfect staple to throw on with jeans for an effortlessly cool look.
ASOS Design Graphic t-shirt, $38, Asos
Add a pop of colour to your everyday wardrobe with this bubblegum pink tee with a black and white graphic. Style it with baggy black jeans or a black mini skirt to take cues from Hailey Bieber.
Batch1 Last In Show Women’s slogan t-shirt, $55, Hardtofind
Despite what the shirt suggests, you’ll be first in show wearing this adorable graphic tee from Batch1.
Grey marl Los Angeles cherry print oversized t shirt, $21.60 (usually $36), Pretty Little Thing
Pair this oversized grey tee with some baggy shorts, sneakers and ample jewellery this summer for a outfit that looks both casual and expertly styled.