How to Style a Graphic Tee for the Workplace

I am not one to buy merch for the sake of merch, but these days you may be finding a desire to wear your heart on your sleeve and share your beliefs with a clear message. One way is through graphic t-shirts, which are easy to throw on with your favorite jeans. But I wanted to share some ideas on how to style a graphic tee for the workplace or more polished or elevated of situations.

sweater | dickie/false shirt | earrings | glasses | bag | pants (ALISON15 for 15% off) | lipstick | watch | loafers

The concept of wearing a graphic t-shirt, or in this case, sweater, is a more modern and casual concept. Counteract that stereotype with very classic tailored pieces. Inspired by a favorite Instagram follow, Kris Cravens-Hutton, the look is tasteful, classic, elegant, but has a very clear message.

Choosing a flare or straight full-length pant will balance the volume of a statement sweatshirt or sweater. A loafer in a similar color but different texture will add a luxe detail while elongating the leg line. There is a matching blazer if you'd like some additional warmth and polish. I added a faux collar or dickie for some interest at the neck and to elevate the sweater; you can also do a full shirt or play with silk scarves for a pop of color. Speaking of pop of color, since this look is quite neutral do not be afraid of both a bolder lip color, and a sock of an unexpected hue like red, pink, or even lime green.

ring | earrings | necklace (I own) | t-shirt (I own) | jacket | skirt | bag | lipcolor | boots

When it comes to a boldly colored graphic t-shirt, the best way to make it look more professional is to pair with more subtle of colors and fabrics with texture and elevated details. The tweed pencil skirt has gold buttons, the jacket, while denim, is saturated and nips in at the waist creating shape. The use of glossy leather and gold takes this t-shirt from weekend to creative workplace.

A mix of jewelry adds interest and turns the unexpected color of the t-shirt into a purposeful pop of color. Again, the gold and gloss keeps it from feeling arts and crafts. Bringing the color of the t-shirt's text into one of the accessories also makes the effect more cohesive and purposeful. Again, have fun with cosmetics and choose one place to add a statement: lip is easy, but colored mascaras are back in fashion and can be a subtle pop of fun (I am a fan of the ones from Thrive Causemetics).

blazer | tank | pants | necklace (I own) | tote | lip color duo (I own) | shoes (I'd own if I didn't have wide feet)

If you are looking to style a graphic tank top for the workplace or in a more elevated manner, may I suggest a matching pantsuit? The polish and power of a pantsuit will take a tank top or any graphic t-shirt to the next level. With the strong juxtaposition of suit and tee, keep accessories simple to let the message hold the spotlight.

While I used a pink pantsuit, this concept works just as well with a more traditional color and suiting fabric. From glen plaids to tweeds, neutrals to brights, a pantsuit works best with a crisp t-shirt in white or black with clear contrast writing. Keep the look elevated with snub- or pointed-toe boots, flats, or pumps, or embrace comfort with a creative pair of oxfords or a sleek sneaker in suede or calfhair.

earrings | t-shirt (I've shopped this retailer) | scarf | cardigan (I own) | bag | skirt (link for misses sizes) | lip oil | sneakers (I own)

If you're looking to style a graphic tee with a skirt, I recommend going with a slimmer fit, or use a hair elastic to gather the shirt at the small of your back and tuck it in. A cardigan is a way to stay warm, add polish, and also show your personality. While I used a cardigan in a fun color, don't be afraid of intarsia prints, stripes, and textures. A scarf at the throat will also elevate the t-shirt and make the whole look feel more polished. You can take the professionalism up a notch by switching out the sneakers for Mary Janes, boots, or block-heel pumps.

I used a faux leather skirt for some edge, but you can do most any textile. I do recommend for the workplace, if you're styling a t-shirt with a skirt, have the skirt be below the knee and an a-line to pencil fit, which will read more professional and balance the casualness of the tee.

blazer | tee | reading glasses | earrings | pants | bag | lipcolor | belt | socks | loafers

For those who can wear jeans in the workplace, it can seem difficult to also wear a graphic t-shirt because it feels too casual. Adding a blazer is an easy way to give such a look professionalism. Also consider your denim wash: a colored jean like the cream barrel jean here, or a dark/indigo wash with little distressing will look more office-friendly.

Classic details like loafers, and finishing touches with gold like the leather belt and subtle yet interesting earrings will also elevate a graphic tee ensemble to give a more polished effect.

t-shirt | earrings | glasses | cardigan | belt | trousers | laptop bag | phone case | shoes

If you embrace color and creative details, they, and your colorful graphic t-shirt can be made office-friendly by having a neutral base and classic pieces. Pairing this graphic tee with a classic cardigan and gray wool trousers gives a traditional vibe while still making a statement.

While I used gray as the base color for this concept, other soft neutrals like cream, tan, camel, and olive will also provide a similar effect while also being pieces you can wear for years of classic style.

t-shirt | scarf | earrings | cardigan | pants | laptop bag (ALISON20 for 20% off) | watch | bracelet (I own; ALISON20 for 20% off) | shoes

Keeping a look classic, you can still infuse your personality with color and accessories. Pattern mixing, in fact, makes a graphic t-shirt look more purposeful within an ensemble.

I hope this provides you some sartorial inspiration to find ways to style a t-shirt for the workplace. As always, adhere to company guidelines, but now more than ever is a good time to push the envelope.