A KAWS tee does a lot of work on its own. The trick to styling one is knowing when to step back and let the graphic carry the outfit, and when to build around it. Here is how. Shop the KAWS x UNIQLO collection at Shoe Religion.
The rule: the graphic is the outfit
Start here. A KAWS graphic is a strong visual element, so the rest of the fit should support it rather than compete. Plain trousers, a simple sneaker and minimal accessories will make the tee look intentional. Patterned trousers and a loud jacket will make it look like clutter.
Formula 1: tee and straight denim
The default, and it works every time. A black KAWS UT tee with straight-leg jeans and a clean white sneaker is close to foolproof. Swap to the white version in summer for a lighter feel.
Formula 2: tucked with tailored trousers
Underrated. A KAWS tee half-tucked into relaxed tailored trousers gives the graphic an art-gallery context rather than a streetwear one, and it dresses up far better than people expect. Keep the shoe clean and low-profile.
Formula 3: layered under an overshirt
For cooler weather, wear the tee under an open overshirt or light jacket so the graphic still reads through the middle. This works especially well with the busier prints like the Artbook Cover tee, where framing the design actually helps it.
Formula 4: shorts in summer
Simple and effective. Tee, plain shorts, low-top sneaker. Because UT tees have a regular rather than oversized cut, they sit neatly with shorts without looking billowy.
Sneaker pairings
Keep the footwear calm so it does not fight the print:
- Air Force 1 in white - the safest, cleanest option.
- Dunks - good if you want to echo a colour from the graphic.
- ASICS in cream or grey - neutral and comfortable, and a nice counterpoint to a bold print.
Colour matching
If you want to tie the fit together, pick one colour from the print and repeat it once, subtly. A cap, socks or the accent on a sneaker is plenty. Repeating it three or four times tips into costume.
Fit note
UT tees have a regular, fairly straight cut. If you want the looser silhouette common in streetwear right now, size up one; see our KAWS x UNIQLO sizing guide.
Frequently asked questions
What goes with a KAWS tee? Plain denim, tailored trousers or shorts, and a clean low-profile sneaker.
Should I size up for a baggier look? Yes, UT tees run regular rather than oversized, so size up one if you want it looser.
Black or white? Black is easier to keep looking sharp; white reads brighter in summer. See black vs white.
Related reading: UT Buyer's Guide | Sizing Guide | Complete Collector's Guide