Spring is a time for new beginnings, and that includes your outfit choices. So, if you haven’t tried the graphic tee trend at the office yet, there’s no time like the present. From brands like Vetements with their swear word-strewn version complete with removable shoulder pads to vintage finds with band names that you can’t name a single song from, graphic tees were all over the spring 2017 runways. And they can work for the office when paired with the appropriate workwear staples (but better save your Vetements purchase for the weekend). Whether it’s a Gucci-emblazoned number or a throwback slogan beauty, what could be more comfortable than sporting a t-shirt to the office? Here are the quintessential outfits to try for your next business meeting.

Throw on a Structured Blazer

 

Opposites attract, so when putting together an outfit around a slouchy top, be sure to pair it with something more structured. A sleek, classic blazer over a loose tee makes for a more polished, work-appropriate look. Plus, it will keep you warm in those sometimes over-air-conditioned offices.

Tuck It Into a Pencil Skirt

 

Although great for a casual day with boyfriend or mom jeans, a laid-back graphic tee and jean combo isn’t exactly going to fly at the office. Luckily, it looks just as great tucked into a ladylike pencil skirt. Along the same vein as the blazer, you want to pair it with a classic black or navy skirt to keep it professional. Side note: the t-shirt tuck also works with a midi-length pleated or a-line skirt.

Layer a Button-Up Underneath

 

Many of us go for the sweater/button-up or blazer/button-up combo when we’re not feeling particularly creative in the morning madness. But now, the graphic tee/button-up duo is taking centre stage to spice up this classic layered work ensemble. Opt for a banker-striped shirt if your tee is relatively subdued or go for a classic white if it has a bolder design. Once the temp gets a bit warmer, swap in a short sleeve button-up to avoid office hot flashes.

Pair with High-Waisted Trousers

 

You can’t beat a pair of sleek, great-fitting trousers for the office; they go with everything. Que: the graphic tee. To freshen things up for spring, try pairing your tee with culottes in the seemingly trendy colour that is definitely here to stay: millennial pink. Add a statement necklace or single earring to bring the whole look together.

Wear It Under a Slip Dress

 

Yes, pajama dressing is still in and yes, you can wear it to the office. As long as the length is well below the knee, you will have your new go-to work outfit for casual spring Fridays when you add a graphic tee underneath. A silky slip dress in a neutral colour over a rad tee with the sleeves rolled complete with on-trend kitten heels will no doubt get your co-workers a little jealous.

 

 

 

Product Info

 

1. Fitted Jacket, $39.99, available at H&M.

2. Junk Food Aerosmith Tee, $42, available at Nordstrom.

3. Theory Stretch-Wool Pencil Skirt, $215, available at Net-A-Porter.

4. Gucci Print Cotton T-Shirt, $705, available at Gucci.

5. Shea Top, $98, available at Reformation.

6. Loewe White Bat T-Shirt, $440, available at SSENSE.

7. Straight Cut Culottes, $69.90, available at Zara.

8. Reebok Classic Crew-Neck Tee, $44, available at Urban Outfitters.

9. Cityshop Open Back Slip Dress, $333, available at Farfetch.

10. Topshop Slayer Graphic Tee, $29.98, available at Nordstrom.

 

Inspirational Imagery

Courtesy of Pinterest

 

By Kelly McLeod, Toronto, @KellyMcLeod7

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