If you live in tees most days, graphic prints are one of the easiest ways to show some personality without trying too hard. From surf logos to band art, a good print can carry a whole outfit. If you have been searching for graphic tees in NZ or wondering how to style graphic tees, this guide walks through trends, fits, and outfit ideas you can build straight from the racks at Westside Surf & Street.

Why graphic tees still matter

Graphic tees sit at the sweet spot between comfort and self-expression. You get the feel of a regular tee, with artwork that hints at what you are into, from surf and skate to music and travel. In New Zealand, they work year round, layered under flannels and jackets in winter, then worn solo with shorts or denim in summer.

A solid collection of prints means you can rotate looks without changing your basic formula of tee, jeans or shorts, and sneakers.

Key graphic tee trends right now

1. Bold logos and heritage graphics

Big front or back logos are classic, especially from brands with real surf and skate history.

• Volcom brings strong Stone logos, custom art and that surf skate snow attitude. Explore the latest pieces in Volcom.
  

• Rip Curl ties prints back to the ocean with wave motifs, surf spots, and classic script logos. See what is new in the Rip Curl collection.

2. Vintage surf and faded colour

Washed blacks, sun-faded brights and retro style logos feel right at home in a coastal town or city skatepark. Look for tees with a slightly worn look rather than ultra crisp colour, especially for weekend fits.

3. Artist collabs and back prints

Big back prints are easy to style since the front stays simple, especially under jackets and overshirts. When the layer comes off, you get the full artwork on show. Brands like Volcom and Rip Curl often run seasonal prints, so checking in on new arrivals can pay off.

Choosing the right fit

The print might be the hook, but the fit determines how often you reach for a tee.

Men’s graphic tees

For men, the sweet spot is usually a relaxed or standard fit that skims the body without clinging. Shoulder seams should sit on the edge of your shoulders and the hem should hit roughly mid fly.

Start with Men’s Short Sleeve Tees, then filter by your favourite brands and colours. You will find a mix of surf labels, streetwear names and simple logo tees that cover you for everyday wear.

If you prefer a slightly heavier feel, look at product descriptions for words like “mid weight cotton jersey” or “premium cotton”, for example on styles like the Rusty Double Or Nothin Short Sleeve Tee. 

Women’s graphic tees

For women, fit choices range from cropped and fitted to boxy and oversized. Decide how you want to balance the top with your bottoms.

Browse Women’s Short Sleeve Tees for a mix of simple logo tops and more playful graphics, then refined by brands like Volcom and Unit for a particular vibe.

How to style graphic tees

1. Smart casual with denim

Graphic tee, good denim, clean sneakers. It is hard to beat.

For men, reach for a logo tee from Volcom and a straight or slim pair of jeans, then throw on a light jacket if you need an extra layer. A darker wash jean reads a little tidier for dinners and casual nights out.

For women, try a slightly cropped graphic tee with high waist jeans or tailored pants and a belt. Finish with trainers or low profile boots.

2. Laid back Surf and Skate

For an easy day at the beach, park or pub, mix a graphic tee with shorts and sandals or sneakers.

• Men can grab a surf print from Rip Curl and boardshorts or walk shorts for a fit that moves from sand to street.
  

• Women can pair a relaxed graphic tee with denim shorts, bike shorts or a simple mini skirt and jandals.

Add a cap from your favourite brand to tie the look together.

3. Winter layering

Graphic tees earn their keep in cooler months too. They sit easily under flannels, hoodies and jackets, giving a bit of interest at the collar and hem.

• Layer a Volcom tee under a fleece or puffer for trips up the hill or cold coastal mornings.
  

• In town, wear a tee under an open overshirt with straight leg jeans and trainers. You get warmth from the layers and still let the print show when the outer layer moves.

Ready to Refresh your Tees?

Graphic tees are the simplest way to tell your story without saying a word. Now that you know the key trends, fits, and outfit ideas, you can pick pieces that actually earn space in your drawer.

Explore the full range of graphic tees at Westside Surf & Street:

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