We’ve sung the praises of the graphic T-shirt many times, but for those looking to make a statement with a little more refinement, the graphic shirt is the real MVP. Where a bold T-shirt is instant gratification — you can throw it on, creased, and it’ll do the job – the graphic shirt is slow-release. Sure, you’ll have to iron it, and it’ll take more effort to style, but when graphic shirts work, they’re an unbeatable summer force.
Much like the movement we’re seeing in the world of sneakers, streetwear has turned its gaze to more mature styles in recent seasons. Of course, the luxury-streetwear dynamic is not to be overlooked in this evolution, either. The merging of the two worlds has set the stage for a new sense of freedom in casual style and we’re here for it. It means that we’re styling beautifully crafted graphic shirts with basically everything this summer, from track pants and sports shorts to tailored pants and everything in between.
Whatever you’re matching your shirt with, just know that it’s probably going play a secondary role because each one of these bold graphic shirts is a bonafide main character. From Dries Van Noten to Stüssy, our roundup proves that the graphic shirt is a beautiful mid-ground in men’s style, and it’s at your disposal.
LA-born, NY-made artist Kenny Scharf took the lead on Dior’s SS21 collection. His graffiti-style artwork makes a bold focus for pieces like this silk-blend shirt.
Cut from pure cotton, this short-sleeve shirt from Norse Projects features a two-tone all-over graphic that abides by the label’s understated, craft-oriented MO.
Abstract graphics are a good way to go if you’re looking to make styling a bit easier. This Nanushka tie-dye striped shirt comes in a soft, neutral palette which helps, too.
Hawaiian shirts have a bad rep. Years of tourist-dad endorsement have left the category in tatters. People like Ralph Lauren are putting it back together.
We recently linked up with French icon Vilebrequin for a summer-ready capsule that featured bold abstract prints at its center. This underwater graphic will make people look twice.
Our Legacy never disappoints when it comes to shirts. A trippy take on polka dots sits on a delicate cotton-linen blend that’s ideal for hot days.
BODE’s fixation with vintage fabrics puts it in good position to be a leader in the graphic shirts conversation. Take the Bread Feedsack Shirt, for example.
Dries Van Noten’s work with artist Len Lye puts a wonderfully psychedelic twist on the designer’s pieces. This semi-sheer shirt is a breeze when it comes to layering.
If you’re looking to go really bold, this Stüssy Dice Shirt should do the trick. Two stacked orange dice contrast with a rich blue sky.
Substituting its signature Americana influences for something more Aloha, Kapital has blessed us with this elegant voile shirt. cut from a cupro-silk blend, it feels more like a liquid than solid in your hands.
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