Graphic tees are the perfect way to express yourself. There’s a design to showcase every unique aesthetic, whether a subtle splash of color or a bold concert tee.
Read on to learn how to style a graphic T-shirt and create go-to outfits that balance comfort and trendiness.
Graphic tees are an effortless choice—you can dress them down or up, depending on the event and your personal style.
Here’s how to wear graphic T-shirts in 10 popular ways.
We adore classic cotton blazers. They can dress up nearly any outfit, and graphic tees are no exception. Wear an understated logo graphic tee with a solid blazer and black jeans for a casual yet stylish look. To finish, add your favorite heels—classic pumps and peep-toes are great options.
Shift this outfit into an edgy, retro aesthetic by pairing a plaid blazer with a band tee and distressed jeans.
This look is perfect for chilly days when you need more coverage. Layer a graphic tee over a fitted long-sleeved shirt in a contrasting color—our favorite combo is a black tee with a magenta long-sleeve. Wear this combo with a midi skirt and shoes that go with everything, like white sneakers or loafers.
Pro tip: Choose a long-sleeved shirt that brings out the color of your graphic. So if the graphic has whites and yellows, opt for a pale undershirt.
We love to style graphic tees with denim. Blue jeans and a denim jacket are an effortless, comfortable combo that highlights a graphic T-shirt’s casual rocker vibes. Yes, double denim is back, and it’s our favorite fun outfit idea!
Accessorize this with a crossbody bag and baseball cap for a convenient, practical look suitable for traveling, weekend errands, and lunch with friends.
Pro tip: Swap the blue jeans with overalls for extra comfy vibes. Unbutton one shoulder strap to show off your graphic tee.
Oversized graphic tees are our top choice for workout gear. Grab a top two sizes larger than usual and pair it with active bottoms like leggings or bike shorts. This flowy, breathable outfit is ideal for the gym or a morning jog. Add a matching headband and durable athletic shoes, and you’re good to go.
But this isn’t just workout wear—an oversized tee and leggings are excellent for casual occasions, like coffee catch-ups and thrifting with friends.
High-rise jeans and a cropped tee were made for each other. A boxy graphic tee makes an angular contrast alongside waist-hugging denim, creating a striking silhouette that celebrates natural curves.
We adore this outfit with wide-leg jeans. Aim for a cropped style that showcases a pair of statement ankle boots or heels. Or for a different but equally striking frame, try high-waisted skinnies instead.
We’re channeling 2000s fashion to create the ultimate trendy yet comfortable combo. Wear relaxed joggers with a fitted graphic tee and chunky sneakers. For a standout color palette, use mainly black with a splash of neon in the graphic. Rock this outfit on girls’ night, turn heads at parties, or settle in for a relaxed day at home (swapping sneakers for slippers).
If you are going out, it’s totally suitable to add a designer bag to a more relaxed Y2K look—try a bold design, like animal print or metallic.
This breezy, comfortable getup is versatile and looks great on every body type. Pair an oversized graphic tee with jean shorts—you can French-tuck the shirt or leave it baggy. Accessorize with a colorful bucket hat and neutral tote bag.
Use this as your go-to summer staple, from festivals and shopping to a laidback day mozying on the boardwalk.
Pro tip: Ditch the shorts and wear the oversized tee as a mini dress for a hot-weather variation.
Pair your graphic tee with similar-colored pants for a striking monochrome look. We adore a white-based graphic tee with white jeans for a 1980s California vibe. It’s eye-catching without being overwhelming.
You could also cut through the minimalist aesthetic with a contrasting layer, like a moto jacket for added edginess or a vibrant aqua blazer to dress it up.
For footwear, try a solid shade with a pop of color, like white sneakers with pink laces or heels with bold straps.
Try a cardigan with a graphic T-shirt for a cozy, easygoing. You could also add structured trousers or a pencil skirt for increased sophistication.
Accessorize with a knit cap and ballet flats for a look that’s perfect for lunch dates and solo coffee shop visits.
Graphic tees look runway-ready with the right pairings, seamlessly blending into a contemporary aesthetic. For instance, you could pair a loud graphic shirt—we recommend a black tee with chunky white letters—with a cropped leather jacket and leather mini skirt for an elevated vibe.
Any statement shoe works here, but our top pick is knee-high silver boots to elongate the legs and add extra flair. Complete this outfit with a designer handbag (we’re thinking Prada or Chanel).
ThredUp is your all-in-one platform for thrifting graphic tees and pairing essentials like high-waisted jeans and statement handbags. We receive over 50,000 new items daily, so you’ll always find what you need—whether you’re looking for a wardrobe refresh or just a few key pieces.
Looking for more outfit inspiration? With the Style Chat feature, you can create a graphic tee outfit that matches your ideal aesthetic. Describe your ideal look and view it on a generated model, then use simple prompts like “More casual” and “Less colors” to refine it. Once you love the look, browse relevant items from our collection and add your dream outfit to your real-life closet.
While the number one choice is a pair of dark blue jeans, graphic tees pair well with various bottoms, including joggers, leggings, chinos, and shorts. Keep in mind the overall vibe of the outfit. For instance, denim keeps your graphic shirt casual, and chinos add a touch of sophistication.
Graphic tees are naturally relaxed, but wearing the right size for you and de-wrinkling the shirt can make it look better. You could also try tucking in the shirt and adding a structured blazer and tailored, high-rise jeans for a more professional vibe.
Not usually. Graphic tees are typically too casual for work environments and may come across as unprofessional. Of course, there are exceptions—fashion companies and casual tech startups often take a relaxed, bold approach to office wear. Double-check the company’s dress code before you wear this to work.