Discover the 10 Most Iconic T-Shirts That Defined Fashion History

10 Most Iconic Graphic Tees

T-shirts, more than any other ready-to-wear clothing, have a particular place in our wardrobe. Many t-shirts have gained the title of being the most iconic tees that will never go out of style after being around for 100 years.  

These are not only comfortable, trendy, and quirky, but they also let you wear your attitude and flaunt it to the world in the greatest manner possible. 

Some of the most memorable logos and slogans have been printed on t-shirts and personalized clothes for fans to proudly wear and show off their favorite designs, bands, films, and more to everyone they encounter. 

So, without further ado, let us have a look! 

I Love NY t-shirts 

There's a fascinating story behind the classic "I <3 NY" t-shirts. They were created in 1977 to boost tourism.  

It's one of the most well-worn shirts ever. Milton Glaser made this renowned design on a napkin. However, it was immortalized on a shirt and became renowned all over the globe. 

Nike – Just Do It!  

When Nike launched its 'Just Do It' tagline, they produced not just one of their most successful t-shirts, but also one of their most popular phrases of all time. 

The tagline was devised by advertising executive Dan Wieden, who drew inspiration from a convict's last words before death. 

The idea and design of the three-word motto resulted in the manufacturing of a slew of 'Just Do It' t-shirts in a variety of patterns and colors. 

This trend hasn't gone away, and Nike continues to manufacture the popular tees today. 

Bob Marley T-shirts 

For many people throughout the globe, Bob Marley is a symbol and an icon. He was instrumental in popularising Rastafarianism and Reggae music, and he felt that music could heal rage and racism.  

His t-shirts have sold 25 million copies worldwide, and he is still acknowledged as one of the greatest singers of all time. 

Bob Marley t-Shirts continue to sell, whether it's an iconic image of Bob or one of his phrases, and his ideals of love and peace are more important today than ever. 

Vote For Pedro Tee 

The cult blockbuster American film Napoleon Dynamite (2004) is credited with giving birth to one of the most famous t-shirts—Vote for Pedro.  

The shirts were popular shortly after the film's premiere. Cooper family's Vote for Pedro typeface, for example, became popular among designers. 

Choose Life T-shirt 

The phrase 'Choose Life' became famous when Wham! wore it in their 'Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go' video. Katharine Hamnett designed the design as a method of fighting back against drug usage. It was one of the first t-shirts to explore social messages on t-shirts. 

We've seen numerous social concerns presented in the form of printed t-shirts as a manner of supporting a cause or a charity since the 'Choose Life' t-shirt. 

Jack Daniels T-shirt 

Jack Daniel's is well-known for its Tennessee Whiskey, but the logo became even more well-known when it started producing t-shirts to promote the business. Jack Daniel's t-shirts have been popular for a long time and show no signs of slowing down. 

Furthermore, an increasing number of firms are beginning to create their printed items to make additional cash and promote their brand. 

Frankie says Relax t-shirt 

In October 1983, Frankie Goes to Hollywood released their song 'Relax,' which swiftly soared to number six on the charts. In 1984, a Radio 1 DJ was so offended by the openly sexual nature of both the record jacket and the written lyrics that he chose to pull the disc from the turntable live on air and label it obscene. 

This caused the song to reach number one on the charts, where it lasted for eight weeks, and the t-shirt was produced in response to the music being banned on the airwaves. 

This contributed to the t-shirt being one of the most popular selling t-shirts of all time, and it continues to be a best-seller to this day. 

Who Are You Gonna Call? Ghostbusters t-shirt 

The Ghostbusters logo is one of the most instantly recognizable in the world. Following on from cartoons, TV shows, and three Ghostbusters movies, the brand has become so famous that t-shirts are still selling like hotcakes today.  

These t-shirt sales increase each time a new movie is released, as well as owing to sentimental fans who recall viewing Ghostbusters as children. 

John Lennon's Iconic T-Shirt from New York City 

This shirt became very famous among the general public when John Lennon purchased it for $5 immediately before the picture session.  

Bob Gruen, the photographer who shot the most memorable posture, asked Lennon to adopt a pose that represented his love for New York.

Graphic Tees of Superman 

The Superman tee is the most iconic of all vintage t-shirts.  

And it doesn't seem to be removing bliss from the fashion industry anytime soon. 

From children to teenagers, adults to the elderly, practically everyone enjoys wearing the Superman shirts that became popular after the iconic Superman film and television remakes.

If you are looking for some new original graphic designs, check out Goats Trail Off-Road Apparel Company. We have in-house graphic designers to meet all of your needs.