Akimbo Faded Black Paint Splatter Artist Tee-2000s

Akimbo Faded Black Paint Splatter Artist Tee-2000s is a shirt that looks like you picked up in a 2003 thrift store. We designed it to be comfortable to wear, not to be newly printed. The paint splatter detail is kind of washed out and the faded black body is looking like it’s already had a bit of use, but not enough to be a complaint. Not random and not trying hard.

This tee is at the heart of the business of Akimbo Clothing. We began as Vintage curators in Salt Lake City, exploring workwear and sportswear to figure out what it feels like to be real. That history influences our designs today, whether it’s an Akimbo Hoodie or a pair of Akimbo Sweatpants. The idea is straightforward: to make clothes that have a history.

Feeling Your Way to the Tee Fits

It is not tight, it does not choke. It has been cut to fit a little and comes with a little room in the chest and shoulder to move around with you rather than stick to you. The cotton is mid-weight to wear all day, yet sufficient to maintain its shape after laundering. Also it’s a pre-faded color, so you won’t have to worry about it being “too new” when it gets to you.

Here the emphasis is on the splatter. It is used in a manner that is similar to real artist droppers: it drips and is inconsistent, and it’s done with purpose. This Akimbo T Shirt provides a nice balance of a style that is bold enough to stand out but not too loud to be distracting.

Sometimes it’s best to team it up with the rest of your rotation.

This one doesn’t require much thought. The black base is faded making it easy to wear with almost anything.

The relaxed pair of denim jeans adds to a grounded look with Akimbo Jeans. Roll the cuffs when you’d like to display your footwear.

With Akimbo Sweatpants: For days when comfort wins. The splatter tee is just enough to jazz up the sweatpants.

Splatter under an Akimbo Hoodie: Open hoodie and layer with splatter so it shows through. Great for use with a zip-up.

If you go to a slightly nicer place, wear the sweater over the top of the t-shirt, and show the collar and hem.

Plus, if you like matching sets, there are lots of pieces with the similar washed out, vintage-inspired color palette for the Akimbo Club.

Keep the Splatter looking right!

The truth is, graphic tees require some maintenance in order to last. If treated correctly, the splatter on this shirt will not be a problem, but heat is the enemy.

Washing: Reverse the tee for each wash. Always use only cold water: heat will destroy the print over time. Skip fabric softener. Causes messiness with print placement on fabric. Use any mild soap.

Drying: If possible, air dry it. Hang inside out of the sun. If it’s a must, stick to the lowest setting of your dryer and remove it when still slightly damp.

Ironing: Avoid ironing directly to splatter. If necessary, iron it outwards, and place a thin cloth between the iron and the garment.

What This Tee Is (and Isn’t)

This is not a performance garment! It’s not a place that’s supposed to be pure. It is supposed to feel like you’ve thrown it on because you felt like you wanted to be there. The faded black will become softer with each wash and the splattering will remain in place if kept out of heat. It’s just the price you pay for a print this size; a little attention in the laundry room goes a long way!

A tee like this is a staple of your wardrobe when you’re following the Akimbo Clothing style. It’s the one to which you resort when you want to appear to have not been involved, but still seem like you know what you’re doing.

FAQs

Will the paint peel or crack when painted and washed?

If you follow the care steps, not if. Air dry with cold water, inside out. Heat is what causes prints to crack. If treated properly, splatter remains intact.

Does the tee fit the size?

It’s a relaxed fit. For a snugger fit, go a size smaller. For them who love to move too, get your regular size. If you are in between sizes, please see the size chart located on the product page.

May I put it in the dryer?

It is possible, but it will require low heat and removal at an early stage. The black will lose its intensity and will be stressed by high heat. Air drying is preferable.

Will faded hair fade out?

No. The fade is not applied as a top layer, it is part of the original fabric. It will remain washed out after multiple washes.

What makes this graphic tee different from a standard graphic tee?

The finish. The body is pre-faded, the splatter is hand done, and the entire piece is in the style of the 2000s artist-studio without being costume-y. It’s an Akimbo T Shirt for everyday wear and not just for special occasions.