Inspo:
Back in high school, we used to rock the graphic tee constantly. That being said, we also used to wear yoga pants and Crocs. In college, due to some hearty doses of socialization, we learned quickly that this look was not acceptable for a grown woman. We shamed the graphic tee and sent it to a dark place, along with those other poor fashion choices. In the past two years, however, this wardrobe staple has come out of hiding and recreated its image. Celebrities, stylists, and really cool people whom we stalk on Instagram have explored this new graphic tee frontier. We followed suit and created these two fun but elevated looks from what we had on hand. We've also rocked an Einstein shirt paired with a mini skirt, a Cheeseburger shirt with leather leggings, and old jerseys with boyfriend jeans. We are totally on board with the graphic tee revolution, and you should be too.
Tips & Tricks:
How to Find the Perfect Graphic Tee:
The best gems can be found from either your own collection (bring back those high school staples!) or from thrifting and borrowing. J's Transformers tee in this post came from a thrift store, while C's shirt was left at her house by a friend, who had in turn borrowed it from a male friend. Men's shirts work really well for this trend, though most major retailers carry women's options as well. The design should be in some way striking, whether it be vintage, crazy, minimalist, or personally meaningful to you. The new graphics are an entirely different beast than those of the old days, when a trip to Abercrombie & Fitch was considered sufficient. Now you've got to hunt down something unique that you love, because people (read: unworthy dudes and jealous Basics) will definitely use messages that are broadcast across your chest as a conversation starter.
How to Make it Flattering:
J has, per usual, opted for a crop top design. She cut the hem of this boyish shirt into a loose fitting crop, and then rolled up the sleeves. She's now made the shirt look flirty, but not too sexy for this design. C's muscle shirt cut is also in right now, and has the added benefit of letting a cute bralette peek through the arm holes. To accomplish this style, simply cut off the sleeves in large, oval cuts. If the shirt is loose fitting, pair it with a tight pant or tie it up in a knot as C has done.
How to Amp Up the Chic Factor:
Sorry ladies, gone are the days when one may wear a graphic tee with jeans and flip-flops in public. That is way too 2004 Britney and we don't want to hear another word about it. (Side note, if you're going for comfort, try the chic athletic trend. Designer sneakers, skinny sweats, and a top with an athletic cut can accomplish a comfortable yet put together look. Alternately, don a stretchy cotton jumpsuit. Feels like pajamas, looks like Gabbana).
The solution? Pair the tee with the perfect balance of formal, structured pieces and casual pieces that enhance the laidback vibe of the shirt. For example, J has paired her tee with distressed jean shorts, but also elevates the look with a boyfriend blazer and gold clutch. She then adds some edge with a tall black boot, keeping it flat to avoid looking too vampy. Similarly, C has included a mix of formal and informal, wearing her muscle shirt with sporty but tailored pants (cinched ankle joggers in a crepe fabric), paired with edgy shoes and clutch. The cat-eye sunglasses and statement necklace add a ladylike vibe, but she still pays homage to the tomboy look with a classic Calvin Klein bra. Mixing aesthetics is not only permissible with this type of shirt, it is necessary in order to create a chic look.
What We Wore:
On J:
Shorts: Forever21 Similar, better quality / Similar price range
Blazer: Banana Republic Similar from BR, on sale / F21 Option
Boots: Dolce Vita Similar / Runway Inspo
Clutch: 7CHI / Also awesome
Watch: Michael Kors
On C:
Shirt: Borrowed, originally from Spiritual Gangster / Similar style (also yum that model) / Muscle tees here and here / Throwback brand repping here and here
Keep it Classy,
J & C
