I Basically Live in Graphic Tees During Summer—7 Fashionable Ways I Plan on Wearing Them


Few things express your personality quite like a graphic T-shirt—whether it features a band logo, a positive affirmation, a French phrase, or a favorite song lyric. Not only do these tees add character to any outfit, but they also happen to be incredibly versatile.
I've been seeing a resurgence in graphic tees on the fashion set this summer, and they've been my go-to when I'm in a fashion rut. I like that they're youthful and casual, and I've been styling them with everything from poplin skirts to lace shorts and miniskirts this summer so far. But it's not just the messaging on the tee that makes it cool; it's the way the piece is styled. There are so many fresh and exciting ways fashion people have been wearing them this season, and below, I'm sharing a handful of graphic-tee outfits along with plenty of shopping picks to get you inspired. I guarantee you may want to copy them for yourself.
Graphic Tee + Lace Maxi Skirt + Ballet Flats
One of the coolest ways I've seen graphic tees styled this summer is with delicate lace (and lace-trimmed) skirts, giving the casual and edgy tee a contrasting romantic touch. Wear with red flats to add an extra pop.
Graphic Tee + Striped Shorts + Beaded Necklaces
I love the idea of mixing prints and colors for a trend-forward summer outfit. It's a "sardine summer," so opt for a fish motif on your tee and pair with of-the-moment striped shorts and plenty of beaded necklaces for good measure.
Graphic Tee + Low-Rise Relaxed Jeans
For a youthful and unabashedly cool look, simply style a vibrant yellow graphic tee with low-rise, dark-wash jeans. Finish the look with polished accessories.
Graphic Tee + Miniskirt + Beaded Necklaces
It's chic to tie in the color palette from your T-shirt with the rest of your outfit. A red miniskirt to coordinate with the reds in your tee will make for a cohesive look.
Graphic Tee + Striped Pants + Thong Sandals
A graphic baby tee can look just as chic as oversize one. Style with trendy striped pants and keep the accessories simple.
Graphic Tee + Miniskirt + Minimalist Heels
For a subtle and elevated way to style a graphic tee, opt for a neutral miniskirt and minimalistic accessories. This will let the tee do the talking.
Graphic Tee + Polka-Dot Skirt + Heeled Ballerinas
Give a classic tourist tee a fashion-forward touch by pairing it with a polka-dot skirt and heeled ballerinas. Throw on a red sweater around your waist to complete the look.

Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear and has worked in fashion for over a decade. She specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.
-
These 31 Effortless Summer Basics Make Getting Ready So Much Easier
Low lift, high reward.
-
Forget Trying Hard—This Dress Trend Is Every Stylish Woman's Secret to No-Effort Dressing
Putting together an outfit has literally never been easier.
-
No One Wears a White T-Shirt Quite Like a Fashion Person—6 Incredibly Cool Looks to Re-Create Now
Nothing but chic, effortless vibes.
-
Put Down That Crewneck—*This* Is the Neckline Everyone Everywhere Is Wearing Instead
Throwback.
-
5 Shirt Trends Everyone in NYC Is Wearing With Trousers and Jeans
Make your next outfit more interesting.
-
People Are Skipping Plain White Tank Tops for the Trend That Makes Outfits So Much Cooler
Texture for the win.
-
Striped Shirts Are Always In, But Not *This* In—These 28 Will Make Every Outfit Cool
Fact.
-
This T-Shirt Trend Was "Out" for So Long It's Hard to Believe It's Cool Again
Proof that everything comes back eventually.