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The Best Graphic Tee

Last updated on September 21, 2022

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Graphic t-shirts have been around for decades, but the internet has made it easier than ever to get the exact design you want. In fact, the custom t-shirt market is worth $3.9 billion and is expected to grow at a rate of     9.9 percent from 2022 to 2030.

But before you have a custom t-shirt designed, first take a look at the many options already available. Chances are, you can find one that expresses exactly the sentiment you want to convey. Whether you simply want something retro or you prefer a whimsical, comedic graphic, you can find it online.

But as with any clothing item you purchase, it’s important to look at the quality of any graphic tee you buy. Cotton is perhaps the most popular material for t-shirts, but it can be prone to shrinking. For that reason, some are preshrunk or mixed with other fabrics like polyester. Still, you might want to size up a little or line dry your t-shirt after washing on cold.

Another consideration with graphic tees is the integrity of the design. Today’s graphic tees are typically higher quality than 40 or 50 years ago, so you’ll likely be safe to wash your t-shirt. For best results, though, turn your t-shirt inside out and wash on cold, then line dry. This will help reduce the risk that your design will fade or crumble.

It’s also important to pay close attention to sizing. Many t-shirts follow the Small, Medium and Large sizing convention with extra-large and extra-small sizes added in. But some can be larger and smaller than what’s advertised, leading to the need to size up. Men’s shirts tend to be boxier in nature, so if you’re a woman who prefers that looser fit, that may be the way to go. That option could also be a great shirt for wearing around the house or with your favorite pair of leggings when you head out for the day.

Our Picks For The Top Graphic Tees

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Hanes Lightweight Jersey Men’s Graphic Tee

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Hanes

Lightweight Jersey Men’s Graphic Tee

Made from 100 percent cotton, this t-shirt offers a wide range of graphic options and colors to help you find one that fits your personality. The material is machine washable and the soft, lightweight build will keep you comfortable throughout the day. The fit is a little on the tight side, so size up if you prefer your shirts looser.

Overall Take

Wardrobe StapleChoose from a wide range of designs and sizes from Small to 3X-Large with this tee.

 Runner Up

Meladyan Loose Fit Oversized Women’s Graphic Tee

Meladyan

Loose Fit Oversized Women’s Graphic Tee

Choose from a variety of colors, each featuring a fun butterfly design with the words “Butterflies in my stomach” printed on the front. The t-shirt can be worn with leggings, shorts or jeans to make it a versatile addition to your closet. The material is 100 percent cotton and sizes are available from Small to X-Large.

Overall Take

Comfortable DesignWhether you’re lounging around the house or hanging out with friends, this casual graphic tee is fun and comfortable.

 We Also Like

MTV Logo Print Short Sleeve Graphic Tee

MTV

Logo Print Short Sleeve Graphic Tee

Available in a variety of colors and material options, this t-shirt will make a great addition to your pile of graphic tees. It features the MTV logo prominently on the front and a pop of color to liven things up even more. You can choose from a variety of sizes and both women’s and men’s options.

Overall Take

Fun DesignRetro meets classic style with this fun t-shirt, which features the MTV logo on the front.

 Strong Contender

Aoang Loose Fit Crew Neck Women’s Graphic Tee

Aoang

Loose Fit Crew Neck Women’s Graphic Tee

The polyester-spandex blend of this t-shirt makes it comfortable while still being attractive. It’s lightweight and stretchy and great for those summer months. But you can also find seasonal options among the designs, including Halloween and Christmas.

Overall Take

Whimsical PatternsWhether you’re looking for a festive tee to celebrate your favorite holiday or an everyday option, this t-shirt will fit the bill.

What to Look For

  • Screen printed tops can vary in quality, so it’s important to look closely before buying. Graphic prints tend to look and endure better on 100 percent cotton, so consider that as you’re weighing different options.
  • Pay close attention to the pricing on a graphic tee. Some less expensive tees can look appealing, but you’ll regret it if the image starts cracking after the first wash. A quality print goes through a multistep process to ensure it’s fully set into the fabric before going up for sale. Screen printed graphic tees go through a curing process that adheres the print to the fabric so that as it’s stretched and exposed to water, it holds its shape.
  • Look at the quality of the fabric itself. You’ll want a t-shirt that’s thin enough to be comfortable even on the hottest days without being so thin that it’s sheer.
  • Consider where you’ll be wearing your tee. If you’re looking for something to wear outdoors for hours, you’ll likely want a different type of fabric than if you’re only wearing it indoors.
  • Also consider the pants you’ll pair with your graphic tee. If you’re wearing leggings, you might want a t-shirt that rests at mid-thigh, while jeans or shorts might have you looking for a cropped tee or one that’s waist length.
  • Pay close attention to the care instructions on any t-shirt you’re considering. Some can be washed and dried, while others need to be hung or lain out to dry. You might still want to wash your tee on cold and tumble dry it if you do go with a machine washable option.
  • If you have a very specific design or you’re wanting to support a band or movie you like, you may be limited in your options. You can always have it custom designed, but often you can buy tees on the websites of your favorite artist or entertainment vehicle. You’ll obviously have less control over quality when you go directly to the source.

More to Explore

Graphic tees came well after the very first t-shirt hit the market. Those early t-shirts were considered undergarments, which meant there was no need to print anything on the fabric. But that changed in 1939, when the film The Wizard of Oz featured a team of workers wearing green t-shirts with the word Oz printed on them as they work on the scarecrow.

The military is considered responsible for bringing graphic tees to the mainstream. During World War II, soldiers were issued t-shirts bearing their branch or training program, designed to be worn under their uniforms. Some of these soldiers continued to wear those t-shirts after returning to civilian life. Next came Marlon Brando, who made t-shirts popular when he wore one in A Streetcar Named Desire in the 50s, and by the 1960s, printed designs on t-shirts caught on.

More to explore