how to wear jeans with t shirt

HOW TO STYLE A GRAPHIC T-SHIRT

Fashion is undeniably cyclical—a fact that might earn a Liz Lemon-style eye roll from some—but it’s true: trends often bring us back to pieces from our past. Case in point: the graphic t-shirt. This humble wardrobe staple is effortlessly cool and could be just what you need to elevate your style with ease and confidence. But forget the tissue-thin tees with quirky sayings from your high school days (remember Live. Laugh. Love.?) paired with low-rise jeans. Today’s graphic tee has found its home in the balance of high-low styling.

Think of a graphic tee as a stylish substitute for a classic white t-shirt. It’s the perfect way to add personality to a blazer-and-trousers ensemble or a playful touch to a mini skirt. Whether it’s a vintage band tee or a bold graphic design, this piece can infuse any outfit with a laid-back yet fashion-forward vibe that says you’re in tune with what’s trending. It’s the ultimate way to make a statement without reverting to a basic blouse.

Ahead, discover 10 fresh and modern ways to style a graphic t-shirt.

1 OF 10: MIXING PATTERNS

A graphic t-shirt can serve as a neutral base for anyone who loves bold colors and mixed patterns. Opt for a tee in black or white to anchor the look and create balance amidst the chaos of prints. Use this styling opportunity to experiment with unexpected combinations that showcase your creative flair.

Pro Tip: Pair a tee with a smaller graphic when wearing large-scale prints, and vice versa for outfits with smaller patterns.

02 OF 10: WITH AN OVERSIZED SUIT

One of the most effortless ways to style a graphic tee is by pairing it with a matching oversized suit. This look is versatile enough for the office, an evening out, or even a gallery opening. The tee adds a touch of casual ease to the suit while keeping the overall vibe polished and put-together.

03 OF 10: WITH A MINI-SKIRT AND MEN’S JACKET

Pairing a graphic band tee with a mini-skirt strikes the perfect balance between playful and polished. Add a worn-in tee for extra character and top it off with a structured men’s evening jacket to create a look that’s sharp yet approachable.

04 OF 10: WITH A SOPHISTICATED SILK SKIRT

Style a cheeky graphic tee with a jewel-toned silk midi skirt for an effortlessly chic ensemble. Tall boots and a brightly colored tee elevate this mix of edgy and elegant, ensuring you’ll turn heads wherever you go.

05 OF 10: OVER A LONG-SLEEVED SHIRT

The early 2000s are calling, and layering a graphic tee over a long-sleeved shirt is back with a grown-up twist. For a fresh, laid-back take, opt for an oversized tee paired with a loose-fitting long-sleeve and boyfriend jeans.

06 OF 10: WITH A SWEATER SET

Transform a classic twin set by layering it with a graphic tee. For a modern monochromatic look, choose a tee in similar tones with subtle text. Feeling bold? Go for a brightly colored graphic to add a fun, contemporary edge.

07 OF 10: WITH A LEATHER JACKET

Channel your inner rockstar by styling a distressed leather biker jacket with a band tee. This punk-inspired combo is effortlessly edgy. Pair it with a maxi denim skirt and sneakers for a softer, feminine touch.

08 OF 10: WITH A CANADIAN TUXEDO

Elevate the classic denim-on-denim outfit with a bold graphic tee that adds a pop of color and personality. Break up the monochrome denim with this playful addition, and finish the look with a pair of stylish heels.

09 OF 10: WITH TAILORED SHORTS

Tailored shorts get an edgy upgrade when paired with a vintage-inspired graphic tee. Add a blazer to keep things polished, then finish the look with combat boots for a cool, casual vibe that’s perfect for summer.

10 OF 10: WITH A MONOCHROME LOOK

Bright monochromatic outfits make the perfect canvas for a graphic tee. A black-and-white design adds just the right amount of contrast between vibrant hues, like a pink knit jacket and bubblegum-colored pants. Complete the look with accessories in complementary tones for a cohesive yet striking outfit.

9 STYLISH WAYS TO WEAR WIDE-LEG PANTS

I don’t know about you, but I’m loving all the different silhouettes in fashion right now—especially when it comes to pants! Joggers have become a must-have, full-length trousers are having their moment, and the variety of denim cuts, from mom jeans to straight-leg to wide-leg, is endless.

I recently made a pair of green wide-leg pants using this pattern and fabric. It was a pretty simple project, and I’m thrilled with the result! Not only are the pants super comfy, but they also add an interesting touch to my wardrobe. Incorporating them into my outfits has been effortless and fun. Some looks are more casual, while others are a bit more polished. Here’s how I’ve been styling my wide-leg pants this season!

Denim Jacket + Pants + Slip-On Sneakers

This outfit combo feels laid-back and cool. Popping on some sunglasses would have really completed the vibe—ha! The oversized, black washed denim jacket and checkered slip-on sneakers give it a relaxed, lived-in, and youthful feel.

White Button-Up Shirt + Pants + Ankle Boots

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This might be an everyday look for some, but for me, it’s a bit more elevated. The combination of this top and wide-leg pants creates an effortless yet polished vibe. You could easily swap the boots for sandals or mules to turn this into a perfect spring outfit.

Blouse + Wide Leg Pants + High Top Sneakers

This outfit feels very “me.” I love wearing sneakers, and my favorite tops always have some feminine detail. Here, I’m wearing a slightly puffed, balloon-sleeve top. I added the cognac bag to bring in a warm tone, and I absolutely love how it completes the look.

Crewneck Sweater + Pants + White Sneakers

This one feels the most laid-back of the bunch. It’s the perfect outfit for running errands and still looks effortlessly stylish. I love it as is, but you could also elevate it by adding a top layer like a denim jacket or a moto jacket for extra flair.

Black Turtleneck Sweater + Wide Leg Pants + Ankle Boots

This outfit is incredibly comfortable—cozy yet put-together, which is the perfect combination I’m loving these days. With its color-block feel, it’s a great choice for an everyday look that still feels stylish.

Sweater + Wide Leg Pants + Combat Boots

Every once in a while, you just need a fun color combo, and this outfit delivers. I paired a pink sweater with olive pants, but kept it grounded with black shoes and accessories. Adding a black jacket would really pull the whole look together too.

Cardigan Sweater + Wide Leg Pants + Mary Janes

For this outfit, I grabbed my most-worn cardigan sweater, buttoned it up, and wore it as a top. I paired it with my favorite mary jane shoes (a style I’ve been loving lately) and a classic black bag. It’s a super comfortable, everyday look that still feels put-together.

Blazer + Wide Leg Pants + Mules

This one is my favorite. If you’ve been following me for a while, you probably already know how much I love pairing blazers with everything! (Check out this post and this one for proof!) Here, I’m wearing bone mules and a white tank, which gives the pant-and-jacket combo a more spring-ready vibe. This look strikes the perfect balance between tailored and laid-back.

Chore Coat + Pants + Mules

This last look is definitely giving me spring vibes! I love the subtle purple of the tank paired with the olive green pants. The bone mules add a fresh touch, giving the outfit a light, spring-ready feel.

conclusion

In conclusion, wide-leg pants are a versatile and stylish piece that can be easily incorporated into various outfits, whether casual or more polished. From laid-back looks with sneakers to elevated pairings with blazers or mules, these pants offer endless styling options that can be adapted for any season. Whether you’re opting for a cozy vibe, a pop of color, or a fresh spring ensemble, wide-leg pants are a perfect way to add comfort and flair to your wardrobe.