Shakira joins the group of celebs bringing back graphic tees in 2026

Rock band tees were a staple in fashion, and now graphic tees (of all sorts) are having a serious style comeback, and Shakira is among the first celebrity Latinas helping push the trend further into must-watch territory.

Over the past few months, graphic T-shirts have quietly reemerged as a celebrity off-duty essential. From Sabrina Carpenter stepping out in nostalgic band merch to Lila Moss embracing cool-girl slogan tops, the once-casual wardrobe staple is becoming fashion’s latest statement piece again. Now Shakira has joined the mix, proving the trend has serious staying power.

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The singer was spotted arriving at her hotel as she prepared to film a new music video with Zara Larsson, and her look gave us throwback dressing. She wore a fitted graphic crop tee splashed with colorful graffiti-inspired lettering, paired with ultra-baggy light-wash jeans that pooled over chunky white platform sneakers. Oversized mirrored sunglasses gave the outfit a futuristic edge, while the relaxed silhouette kept everything grounded.

Why Graphic Tees Are Suddenly Everywhere Again

Fashion has been leaning heavily into nostalgia, and graphic tops are among those precious garments we acquire during concerts and album releases. Think a 1999 tee featuring Britney Spears or Backstreet Boys. It is laid-back, cool fashion that feels vintage, rebellious, playful, and sentimental.

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Unlike logo-heavy luxury pieces that read Gucci or Celine, graphic tees often carry personality. They tell a story, whether through old band artwork like Evanescence, cartoon references like Scooby Doo, retro typography, or street-art-inspired prints. 

Shakira’s version tapped into mixing statement tops with exaggerated denim. Her oversized jeans gave the cropped tee balance, while the proportions made the look feel current. It’s also the same volume play fashion she has embraced in recent seasons.

Shakira’s Outfit Taps Into the Y2K Streetwear Revival

The Colombian’s look is unmistakably early-2000s. The low-key crop top, slouchy jeans, and platform sneakers nod to Y2K style codes that continue influencing street style.

It also echoed the way younger stars have been styling graphic tees lately. 

© Backgrid/The Grosby Group

Some choose a rock-and-roll vibe with faded tour shirts, others go playful with cartoon graphics or ironic slogans. The point is to inject attitude without trying too hard.

In fact, Shakira’s formula is surprisingly easy to borrow. Start with a standout graphic tee, whether it’s vintage-inspired, music-related, or bold and colorful. Pair it with relaxed, wide-leg denim, chunky sneakers or platform shoes, oversized sunglasses, or layered jewelry.

The secret is treating the tee like a statement piece, not an afterthought.