The possibilities a graphic tee offers are limitless. They can be worn to bed as pyjamas, with a leather skirt on a night out, and pretty much everywhere in between. They are comfortable, often unique and add a burst of life into any old outfit.
“Consider graphic tees the longtime wardrobe staple of the openly cheeky: Loudly stamped with a bold phrase or visual, they have spent most of their history relegated to the bottom drawer—designated for gym or laundry days only”.
Vogue writer Liana Statenstein wrote in 2015, exploring the resurgence of graphic tees, thanks to Louis Vuitton’s 2015 fall show.
While such versatility means that they have become a staple in the closet of many Australians, it can also be overwhelming when considering how to style one, where to purchase one from and deciding on what occasions it is appropriate to wear it.
Vogue market editor Kelly Connor told writer Liana Statenstein that “a graphic tee can easily be the focus of a chic ensemble… just consider its own personality and attitude”.
For inspiration and pointers, five fashionable Melburnians reveal the details of their favourite graphic tees and how they wear them.
Emilia Schnall
Emilia Schnall is a 24-year-old full-time musician, music educator and artist manager. She is passionate about everything music, fashion, beauty, sustainability, and her dog Chester.
“A black, cropped, long-sleeve with ‘GIRL PWR’ printed on the front in sequins is for obvious reasons, my favourite,” Ms Schnall said.
“It is so striking, unapologetic and badass. In other words, it is very me. I always opt for colourful, patterned, and sparkly tops. It also has a message I love, as I am an advocate for equal rights,” she said.
As a musician, Emilia can often be found wearing a graphic tee.
“I would style this with something neutral if I were performing, like jeans or a block coloured pant or skirt. If I were feeling extra fabulous, I would pair it with another piece with texture such as a blazer or cardigan.”
Marlon Dalais
Marlon Dalais is a 24-year-old student who loves everything pop culture, music, and gaming.
“My favourite graphic tee is my Fleetwood Mac merchandise t-shirt I purchased at their live show," he said.
"It was $50, which is almost double what I would usually pay for one, but it reminds me of seeing one of my favourite bands live and the design is really cool.
“It’s sentimental, which I think is something enjoyable about buying merch.
“I wouldn’t wear this as a staple because a bright red t-shirt can be quite difficult to pull off. I would only wear it with plain black jeans or shorts and vans, as it is quite bold already.”
Laura Buckley
Student and bar manager Laura Buckley is an aspiring artist who enjoys all things health and wellness.
“My favourite graphic tee is now merely a fond memory, as I unfortunately lost it while I was travelling,” Ms Buckley said.
“However, I originally acquired it at the bottom of my mum’s closet and cut it into a crop top. It is a vintage Nike tee, boldly printed with a cartoon of the statue of liberty.
"It is very 90s, and very groovy. The New York sports fashion movement was very iconic, so I was very lucky to have a t-shirt from the era.
“While I was studying art, I wore it all the time because it was both comfortable and unique.
"I love denim and would often pair it with light blue boyfriend jeans or shirts. I also wore it to work, because you can dress up a tee with leather and bold earrings.”
Laura perfectly summarised the role of the graphic tee in fashion.
“To me, a graphic tee is a great way of showing your personality and style.”
Amanda Jambu
Amanda Jambu is a 20-year-old student studying Communication Design and Business. She loves all things skincare, design and has a passion for travelling.
“I have a wardrobe full of graphic tees, so picking my favourite was really tricky,” Ms Jambu said.
“After making a shortlist, I finally decided that my Aminé merch t-shirt that I bought at his concert back in 2018 is my first choice.
"I love the tie-dye design, and the slightly oversized fit.
“This is a staple in my closet, and I wear it all the time. I always wear it with high-waisted pants and heavy jewellery, to elevate my look.
"As a student and a part-time retail assistant at a sneaker store, I can virtually live in a graphic tee.”
Rosie Hope
Customer experience manager Rosie Hope loves music, good food and wine.
“My favourite graphic tee was purchased from ASOS Marketplace, which stocks items from independent brands and vintage boutiques," she said.
"There are heaps of graphic tee designs on this website if you are struggling to find something that suits you.
“My favourite tee gives me Harley Davidson vibes, as it has a motorcycle and an eagle on both the front and back in a monochromatic colour scheme.
"It is an oversized fit, which I think is the best way to style a graphic tee.
“I love to pair a graphic tee in a casual style, super grungy but also feminine. I’ll often wear it with a floral maxi skirt or under a slip dress with chunky doc martens and hoop earrings.”