Chaotic Graphic Tees Are the Most Fun Trend of 2024

Raise your hand if, in the early aughts, you patiently waited for your Delia’s catalog to arrive in the mail, eager to flip through the pages and circle your favorite kooky, silly graphic tees. Though the beloved mall retailer closed its doors a decade ago (RIP), a slew of brands are currently breathing new life into the humble graphic T-shirt. The trend has been somewhat of a slow burn: If you recall, Hailey Bieber riled up the internet when she stepped out in early 2023 wearing a white crop top that read “Nepo Baby.” We’d argue the look hit its stride this spring amid the release of Challengers, which showed Zendaya’s character donning an “I Told Ya” tee courtesy of Loewe. Now, it’s nearly impossible to scroll through Instagram without coming across a humorous graphic tee. Below, read up on the conversation-starting graphic tee trend, plus shop our edit of 11 fun options.

About the Trend

Playful, maximalist looks of yore have undeniably been at the forefront of fashion in 2024—looking at you, jelly sandals and bag charms. So it should come as no surprise that bold graphic tees, an antithesis to last year’s understated “quiet luxury” trend, have returned to the fashion vernacular. But let’s rewind to the early ‘00s for a minute: Yes, the eye-catching style was the look du jour back then, with a fan club boasting the likes of Britney Spears (who could ever forget the singer’s “Dump Him” tee?) and Paris Hilton (her “Stop Being Desperate” top—and the controversial “Stop Being Poor” edit of it—still lives rent-free in our heads).

As of late, celebrity endorsements have helped put the not-so-serious graphic tee trend back on the masses’ radar. That’s right, the Rhode founder and Challengers star aren’t the only A-listers who have co-signed the look: Rihanna, for instance, made headlines with her “I’m Retired. This Is As Dressed Up As I Get” look. Sabrina Carpenter, too, tried the trend on for size, rocking a “Jesus Was a Carpenter” top at Coachella. Then there’s Kaia Gerber, who recently promoted her book club, Library Science, via a tee that read “Come To My House, I Have Great Books.” If bold, in-your-face motifs are more your sartorial speed, look to Hollywood darling Olivia Rodrigo, who rocked a tee splashed with a photo of young Angelina Jolie last September. 

When it comes to styling graphic tees, there are many routes you can take. To keep the outfit relaxed and casual, consider teaming the top with denim cutoffs and sporty sneakers (think Adidas’ cult-favorite Sambas). Alternatively, to jazz up the look, we’d suggest opting for a flowy skirt and strappy sandals. Without further ado, scroll ahead for our 10 favorite cheeky graphic tees on the market right now.

The Best Playful Graphic Tees to Shop Now

Unfortunate Portrait Pickleball Tee

In your pickleball era? Show up to the courts in this on-theme tee—your opponent will be envious of it, no doubt. Add even more of a sporty feel to the outfit by way of gym shorts and workout sneakers.

Favorite Daughter Tee

Warning: If you have a sister, she may disapprove of Favorite Daughter’s signature tee. But if she’s not around, feel free to rock this around your mom (it’s bound to make her giggle). Or, as the product description suggests, why not wear it to your next family reunion?

Lisa Says Gah Charlie Tee

Embrace the nostalgic energy of the chaotic graphic tee trend wholeheartedly with this feel-good boardwalk print. (Ferris wheel? Check. Hot dog stand? Check. Carnival games? Check.) If you can’t physically be near the breezy shore, donning this piece is the next best thing.

Theophilio Souvenir Shirt

If you snatched up an I ❤️ NY tee during your first visit to the Big Apple, we have a feeling you’ll be drawn to this luxe top from Brooklyn-based label Theophilio. Ground the rhinestone-covered tee with slouchy denim and leather loafers.

Reformation Cropped Classic Crew Tee

Need a reminder to call your mom? Have this Reformation cropped tee in your collection at all times. Transition the skin-revealing silhouette into the chilly months with a cozy cashmere cardigan and high-waisted jeans.

Anine Bing Cade Tee

Anine Bing champions attention-commanding graphic tees, and this ombré mushrooms motif is no exception. It feels especially fitting for a music festival, should you be attending one in the coming months.

Guizio Blessed Tee

If you need a friendly reminder that you’re too blessed to be stressed, this is it. The tee’s bold color palette only adds to the fun of the message. Since it’s quite statement-making, consider rounding out the look with minimal, pared-back accessories.

Ganni Relaxed Bunny T-Shirt

Spread positive vibes with this Ganni bunny tee, which reads “Have a nice day! Please recycle.” Enough said, right? (Note: You can also purchase this look in other graphics, such as a cat or cherries, should they better resonate with your style.)

Cherrykitten Born to Yap Y2K Baby Tee

Love to run your mouth about anything and everything on your mind? Tell everyone as much with this baby tee from Cherrykitten, which also has countless other playful, Y2K-inspired graphics on offer. Now everyone knows that whenever they approach you, they’re in for some hot gossip.

Re/Done Girl Power Classic T-Shirt

Re/Done’s Girl Power shirt is aptly named—because yes, women do have the power to take over the world. Not to mention, this vintage-inspired comic book graphic is a fun, refreshing take on the trend.

Off-White White Printed T-Shirt

If you’ve ever wanted a creative way to get people to leave you alone (or simply wanted a cool street style moment similar to Bieber’s “Nepo Baby” tee), this one’s for you. The playful graphic tee format feels right up Off-White’s alley.