Mariam Nihal
Saudi Gazette
T-shirts never go out of fashion. They never fade with time. But even if they do, we love them. The truth about t-shirts is that they break through doors of classicism and are always worn to make a statement. Be it Hip Hop’s white t-shirt that Kanye sold for $120 in collaboration with the high-end brand A.P.C or the staple at your local stores. More than fashion, t-shirts represent a voice, encouragement and confidence. Much like the initiation of music and freedom of speech, t-shirts are making an impact globally, representing ones inner thoughts and beliefs. No judgment if your beliefs are limited to Chanel No. 5, nightlife, brands or a graphic illustration of Tupac. The tee you wear is ultimately who you are, wherever you are. Powerful celebrities step out in style, they may be wearing designer labels (that exceed a middle class family budget) but never forget to make a statement (even if it is on their tee). A good example would be Jay Z’s simple “Blame Society” tee. For other inspired material, Drake’s merchandise either consists of inspirational leaders, fans, his latest album or music label’s graphic prints.
Music and culture have used t-shirts to reinstate and represent society’s thoughts and vision. Moving away from the classic solid block colored t-shirts, graphic printed picks are all the rage. The trending genre has taken over the social hemisphere. From Andy Warhol prints to Um Kulthoum dominating prints, many young designers and creative minds have generated humor inspired t-shirts, which have been a hit on social media websites and has set the new rules of fashion. Homies, Ballin. Boy, Dope, Habibi (the Arabic version with names of Arab states below) have been worn by celebrities like Rihanna and countless social media kings and queens.
Arabic calligraphy and Arab icons have been of huge interest to regional fashionistas as more of them are using the medium to generate hype and garner attention. The term “Ain’t no wifey” spread like fire and soon became a label many girls wore and showcased on instagram. Ali Chaaban, a Lebanese graphic designer and artist, came up with his own rendition of the phrase and created “Ain’t no mahram” on ready to wear jumpers generating hype and humor on social and cultural fronts. GQ magazine for men, termed the need as imperative and dictated fashion statements made by Ralph Lauren, Alexander Wang apart from Zara and River Island.
Guys on the other hand are playful with choices like bold colors, graphics, suit-jacket tee, the V-neck (an Arab boy staple), the Polo, 1970s ringer tee, surfer tee, striped tee and of course the new pocket tee. Basic t-shirts are a staple. There’s a way to re-innovate and reinvent one’s fashion sense, hence the new trend of turbans, brooches, cuffs and skirts along with others, pave the way to complement the basics. So no matter the jewels, the car or heels you are stepping out in, a crisp tee under that incredible blazer may just be what you need. Keep it simple. Believe it or not, even today, less is always more.
