T-shirts with words on them...so hot right now

In recent years, I've noticed an increasing number of t-shirts with large words and phrases printed across the front. These "fashion" T's typically have a solid base color with contrasting words scrolled across the fabric. Sometimes the designer even throws in a symbol or two for good measure. Most of the phrases are relatively benign in nature, but every once in a while I see a shirt that makes me ask: "WTF, mate?" Now, I'm as guilty as anyone when it comes to this style of t-shirt...well, let me rephrase that---I have purchased one such t-shirt, so I am NOT as guilty as some people.

While studying in Spain a few years back, I walked into a shop called Pull and Bear and one garment, in particular, captured my attention. It made me chuckle because I could not derive meaning from the dyadic word combo. "GYM TONIC". Hmmmm, what could that possibly mean? Does it mean that if I were to wear that shirt I'll never have to workout again? Or does it mean that the t-shirt cures a disease known as GYM? Neither option seemed plausible or reasonable, so I knew it would be a welcome addition to my wardrobe. WTF.

After careful thought and consideration, I have come to the conclusion that the trend must have begun in non-English speaking countries. Back in 2006, not only did I see "GYM TONIC" but I also saw a wide array of English language T's smattered across the Iberian Peninsula. Given that I never saw such a fashion statement prior to heading overseas, I'm going to go out on a limb and make the assumption that the printed T's phenomenon originated somewhere in Europe during the mid-2000s. What's more, I'm pretty sure most Europeans were unable to translate the expressions appearing on their own clothing (see #2 on my list). In fact, the grammar, syntax, and word choice seem to imply that the original designers themselves did not have a firm grasp on the English language either. Or maybe designers just wanted to play a trick on consumers. Either way, it was some kind of success.

For whatever reason, the trend has since migrated over State-side. There's only one problem, the United States is comprised predominantly of anglophones. If we can understand the expressions, where's the fun in that? Personally, if I'm going to have a brash statement on the front of my clothing, I'd rather walk around without the slightest insight with regard to meaning. With that said, I would wear an English phrased t-shirt if it were to make absolutely no sense (e.g., GYM TONIC). As long as a printed t-shirt engenders responses of "WTF", it's fine by me.

Here's a list the most memorable t-shirt phrases that I've seen out and about. I'm not saying that I like or endorse any of them, it's just that they've stuck in my memory.

1) If you're hot then I'm single. (IUPUI campus, Indianapolis)---saw that one today.

2) I am going to scalp you. (Sevilla, Spain)---my personal favorite.

3) Beautiful sex you. (Sevilla, Spain)---nope, that's not a typo.

4) inspi(RED). (USA)--GAP charity campaign.