Graphic Tee Outfits For Men: Men wear graphic tees to express something (a message perhaps) through the print of the tee itself. And some gents feel like rocking these tees simply because they want to. But what makes a graphic tee special?

What Is A Graphic Tee?

Graphic tees usually come in solid colors. It’s seldom to never that we see them in tie-dye, polka-dot styles. The best ones are in black or white canvas, in which the drawing or picture stands out perfectly because of the plain background.

Famous rock bands, brand logos, and artists are what we usually see printed on a graphic shirt. And logo shirts, in particular, have a hint of ’90s fashion. Designers used well-known streetwear brands as an inspiration to create graphic tees, making them a stylish wardrobe piece that we see today.

History

Graphic T-shirts were first seen in the 1950s as college tees before political activists used them in the 1960s. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s when they became a fashion statement as designers Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren made them more popular.

Since then, men started wearing them to express themselves or promote something (advocacy, I hope). Graphic tees also make a nice collection for designers and fashion enthusiasts alike. 

Types of Prints

• Typography. It includes messages, quotes, and slogans without images and plainly words.
• Photography. It focuses on images more than texts. 
• Abstract. It involves patterns, shapes, lines or a combo of these. Abstract prints don’t have to mean anything as they concentrate more on creating interest.
• Graphic. This design is the most commonly used type of print for tees. It’s a combo of texts, images, and drawings.

Tips On Wearing Graphic Tees

• The Fit. Get a graphic shirt that is never too baggy nor tight. For V-neck, the bottom of the collar should line up with your armpits. It’s best to try it on before checkout. And when buying online, double-check the details, especially the body measurements. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
• For Graphic Shirts With Words. Stick to catchy words, phrases, and even sentences that will help you channel your free-spirited self. And in any event, the font style would matter the most!
• For Band Shirts. Your style will show naturally if you are actually a fan of the person printed on your shirt. So if you can’t name at least one Nirvana song, you don’t deserve to wear one.
• Layering. When teaming up your graphic shirt with other pieces, make sure that the tee will be the main focus. That said, keep it minimal elsewhere and let the tee do the talking. Also, when wearing a graphic tee as an undershirt, do not cover or hide it otherwise, what’s the point?
• Accessories. Use your graphic tee as the basis to get the right accessories. For instance, if your tee is black, match it with a black belt or sunglasses.
• Colors. If you choose to wear a graphic tee, you are already making a statement. That said, stick with plain, solid hues. Colorful shirts and flashy graphics combined is overkill.
• Fabric. Your best bet is 100% cotton, as well as a 50/50 polyester blend. If you can, steer clear of synthetic fabrics as they are less breathable. They are also less absorbent and prone to shrinking, making them a bad choice for warm weather.

What To Avoid

• Looking so formal. Try not to look like you’re off to a black-tie or cocktail party. Graphic shirts are casual, and they should be styled accordingly. Even if you pair it with a smart piece, e.g. suit, the casual vibe should stand out.
• Prints promoting drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and other vices. Even if you find them cool, ditch them as much as possible. There are other options out there.
• Tees with vulgar and offensive terms. Ditch those tees with sexist remarks, racial slurs and whatnot. Promote what you love instead of bashing what you hate. And just think of other ways to be a head-turner.
• Tees with photos threatening or objectifying people. Most of the time, your graphic shirt will say much about your personality. And I’m sure you don’t want to make people think that you’re rude and reckless.

When To Wear Graphic Tees?

Graphic tees are best for casual hangout and laidback occasions. In short, they are suitable for events that don’t require much formality. And the office might be the last place you’ll be allowed to wear one.