TEE OFF

Words: Nhlanhla Masemola | Images: Supplied

Decades of outfits have been anchored by none other than a crisp tee, paired with classic blue jeans, tailored slacks or your most slouchy pair of sweats. Easy styling is the name of the game and thankfully, branded tees are holding firm on the playing field. Founded in 1966, The North Face is your go-to destination for gear suited to making a statement. The brand is named after the north face of mountains, the toughest to climb in the northern hemisphere because they get the least sun. Since spring is here, we'll be giving the reputable outerwear a skip for the season and heading straight to the recently launched collection of graphic tees. Know how to rock yours? We have a few ideas.

01. DRESS IT UP

A graphic tee with a blazer is one of the best styles to emerge from the 80s, adding a little bit of edge to amp up a clean look. Let the tee do the talking and keep all other style elements simple so that your outfit doesn't look overdone. Opt for black jeans, white kicks and a simple blue or black blazer to turn your graphic tee into your new going-out uniform.

02. LET THE STREET GUIDE YOU

Searching for sartorial street cred? A graphic tee delivers a layer of cool. Choose a T-shirt that’s bold, but not too flashy and versatile enough to be party or beach-appropriate… without looking like a teenager. Street style is where The North Face graphic tees have made the greatest strides – think Pharrell Williams. The trick to nailing this look? Focus on fit, add a layer with a shirt over your tee and keep your bottom half clean lined with a pair of tailored sweats. And don't forget the statement sneakers.

03. THEY GO GREAT WITH JEANS

One of the best ways to wear a graphic tee also happens to be one of the easiest: with a pair of jeans. White jeans, a graphic tee and a pair of dark sneakers or boots and you're good to go. Fit is everything here, too.

04. ADD PERSONALITY BUT NOT TOO MUCH

It’s a T-shirt, after all. You should be having fun with it. Thanks to a tastefully placed logo and classic cut, The North Face’s tees are a solid alternative to slogan tees with outdated references (see Keep Calm and Carry On). Going for a grown-up rocker look? Try some faded grey skinny fit jeans, a patterned or plaid button-up shirt and a pair of Chelsea boots.

05. MAKE IT ACTIVE

The T-shirt’s new wave has an incarnation for nearly every occasion. There’s one perfect for the weekend, one you’ll wear in the evening, one for work and one that’s workout appropriate. We thank you, athleisure, for the endless options that you bring.