Thank you to Nordstrom + Collective Voice for sponsoring this post.

For as long as I can remember, as soon as the weather is consistently above 76 degrees, my summer uniform comes out in full effect. I workout, shower, then immediately gravitate towards denim shorts + graphic tees. To me, that combo is the epitome of summer. If the line, “she wore those cheeky graphic tees and some worn-in denim shorts” (sung in my best country twang) isn’t already a lyric in a country song, well then it should be. I can already see the music video, but I digress. When it comes to my beloved “uniform”, you can achieve this laid-back, carefree, playful summer vibe at any budget. I styled two looks at different price points and the result?! I love both equally. Let’s take a look…

Splurge Graphic Tees + Denim Shorts

Daydreamer Tank (runs small) | AG Shorts (run true, size up if between) | BP Hat

Daydreamer and AG…. not inexpensive by any stretch, but hey, we all have our “things” that we are ok splurging on. When you feel the fabric of both of these pieces you will understand the price tag. The shorts feel like someone wore them for years breaking them in to perfection for you. They have a 3-inch inseam and are made from 100% cotton. Although they are “non-stretch”, they definitely give and will mold to your body.

The Van Halen tank ups your cool factor by at least 23%… and on top of that, we love it because it’s butter soft to the touch. It is slightly cropped so pairs best with higher rise bottoms or you could size up for a little more wiggle room.

Splurge-worthy graphic tees:

Splurge-worthy denim shorts:

Summer Combo @ a Friendlier Price Point

Vinyl Icon Tee | Madewell Shorts (run true) | Veja Sneakers

And then there are those tees that have a friendlier price point and are equally as cute as the more expensive version. But here’s what happens…. you end up buying three and spending the same amount anyway. It’s shopping math problem that has no definitive answer – buy one that costs more, or three that cost less – the joy sparked by either equation is purely subjective.

Vinyl Icons is a super fun tee brand. I’m a sucker for ringer tees and for pretending I live in LA, so clearly this tee was made for me. Check out the entire line and I’m willing to bet when you see the one that was made for you, you will just know. That’s graphic tees for ya.

I paired this tee with front-pocket shorts by Madewell. I loved the cleaner, preppy vibes for days when my summer uniform has to be a little more polished and less edgy. These shorts have a 3.5 inch inseam and a touch of stretch.

Graphic Tees Under $40….

Denim Shorts Under $100….