Can You Dress Up a Graphic Tee?

Last updated on July 27, 2020

When graphic tees first came out, they were more commonly worn as very casual items. They didn’t go far from their roots as band T-shirts or casual shirts bearing slogans or recognizable characters.

However, as graphic tees have become popular again in the 2000s, they’re use has extended more into formal wear. You can absolutely dress up a graphic tee. It may even be the best way to wear one.

Picking the Right Graphic Tee

If you want to dress up your graphic tee, your first step is choosing the right kind of graphic tee with the right kind of graphics. Here are some aspects to look for in a t-shirt that will look great when dressed up.

• Solid background. Putting your graphic tee under layers makes it dressier, but for this to look good, the t-shirt needs to have a solid background. Black and white are both good options. Light greys and other neutral colors can also work well.
• Bold design. A subtle design with light lines may look cool up close, but for a graphic to pop on your shirt from a distance, you want a bold design that clarifies what the design is.
• Limited color palette. Limit the color palette in the shirts you choose to four or five colors. Single color graphics work well too. A limited color palette in your graphic t-shirt makes it easier to match and accessorize.
• Is it art? Band names, slogans, and logos can be cool, but they’re probably not best when you want to dress up a graphic tee. A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself whether you would hang it on your wall. If not, it may not be quality enough to be your clothing.

How to Dress up a Graphic Tee

Now that you know what to look for in a graphic tee to dress up, here are some ideas for doing it. In each instance, you’ll want to balance formal features with less formal ones.

Jean Jacket and Dress Pants

Dress pants give this outfit a touch of formality, while a jean jacket over a graphic tee establishes a classic, cool look. This is a great outfit for a casual workday or for comfortable all-day wear.

Button-Down and Jeans

If you want to barely dress up your graphic tee, wear a button-down opened just to show off the graphic, along with jeans. Darker jeans and a lighter button-down work well. The graphic can be either dark or light, it’s up to you.

Sport Coat and Button-down

The sports coat and button-down work together to dress up the graphic tee. A sports coat is the perfect way to wear your graphic tee on a cooler day. If you want to take off the sports coat, you still have the button down to rely on.

Drawstring Pant and Light Jacket

Drawstring pants, a graphic tee, and a light jacket are perfect for a fun day on the water. Pair your outfit with minimalist brown sneakers or Topsiders, and you’re good to go.

Shorts and Jacket

For a preppy approach to the graphic tee, consider a sports jacket over the t-shirt paired with shorts. This is a great way to stroll on the beach on a brisk day. Pair your outfit with loafers for a very casual approach.

Dress Up Great Graphic Tees

If you love a great graphic tee, you don’t have to reserve it for only the most casual times. Use these tactics to dress up your graphic tee so that you’ll be able to wear it and look great on a variety of occasions.